The Bottom Line
- Extraordinary images of all 680 pages
- Nicely presented history of the manuscript
- Zoom feature for 14 significant pages
- Monopolizes your computer
- Slow to load on some systems
Description
- Requires Pentium II, 233MHz Processor, Windows 95/98/NT 4.0/2000/ME, 64 MB RAM or Mac G3 or better
- Either platform requires 4x CD-ROM Drive
- Also requires 16-bit Audio & Speakers, 1024 x 768 Monitor Resolution, and 24-bit Color
- Developed by X Communications in partnership with the Library of Trinity College, Dublin
Guide Review - The Book of Kells on CD ROM
The "Book of Kells" is Ireland's most precious medieval artifact and arguably Europe's most beautiful medieval manuscript. An extraordinary facsimile was recently created, and every page is digitally reproduced on this CD ROM. In addition to the manuscript, the CD offers fascinating background on the book's symbolism and creation, narrated by Olivia O'Leary & Stephen Rea.
On my Mac, the CD loads more slowly than most, and the program does not allow me to switch between it and another program. OS X users may have problems with it, and may want to reboot their computers in OS 9 to use the CD. In Windows 98, the CD worked fairly quickly, but still monopolized the computer. However, the manuscript is so extraordinary that it is worth the time and minor inconvenience on either platform.
The Book of Kells is a treasure that every medieval history enthusiast should see, and this CD makes it available at a very reasonable price.
