This book examines marvels as tangible objects in the literary, courtly, and artisanal cultures of medieval England, but these clever devices, neither wholly semiotic nor purely positivist objects, are imbued with diverse cultural significance that illuminates in new ways the familiar literature of the Ricardian period.

Introduction: Clever Devices, Marvelous Affinities By Angel's Hand: Langland, Richard II, and Craft Mirabilia The Medieval Economy of Wonder: Chaucer, Marvels, and Techne Bodies and Machines: the Subject of Technology Advice to Kings and the Pursuit of Marvels: Gower's Monstrous Body Politic Manufactured Marvels in Mandeville's Terrestrial Garden Conclusion: Marvelous Craft