Reluctant Author

Reluctant Author: Cardinal Pole and His Manuscripts, Volume 1, is a scholarly biography and autobiography study focusing on the extensive writings of Cardinal Reginald Pole. This monograph addresses the previous lack of inventory and description regarding Pole's manuscripts. It provides a detailed sketch of his career and explains the historical significance of his intellectual contributions.

The text examines several major works, including Pro ecclesiasticae unitatis defensione and Apologia ad Carolum Quintum. It also analyzes De summo pontifice, De sacramento, and a comprehensive version of Discorso di pace. By exploring the challenging text of De reformatione ecclesia, this volume establishes a foundation for future critical editions of these essential historical documents.