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Codex Gigas
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Full-page medieval illustration from the Codex Gigas showing a horned, crouching devil with green face, red claws, and outstretched arms, framed by a rectangular border. Side profile of the Codex Gigas, a large medieval manuscript with thick, uneven pages and a white cover reinforced with metal fittings and corner protectors. Illuminated manuscript page from the Codex Gigas showing a tall, rectangular architectural design with red, green, and blue geometric patterns framed by aged parchment.
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Full-page medieval illustration from the Codex Gigas showing a horned, crouching devil with green face, red claws, and outstretched arms, framed by a rectangular border.
The Devil in his bible, the Bohemian illuminated manuscript Codex Gigas Full-page medieval illustration of the Devil in the Codex Gigas, also known as the Devil's Bible because of this illustration and a legend about Satan's involvement in its composition.

Codex Gigas

illuminated manuscript
Also known as: Devil’s Bible
Written by
Laura Payne
Laura Payne is a freelance writer whose work covers many topics. She is a former Wayne State University linguistics instructor.
Laura Payne
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Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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‱History

Codex Gigas, medieval illuminated manuscript known for its full-page illustration of the Devil opposite a full-page illustration of heavenly Jerusalem. It is thought to be the largest surviving medieval codex. The manuscript comprises the Bible (Old and New Testaments) and an assortment of other ancient historical, scholarly, and religious writings. The Codex Gigas was likely written in Bohemia in the early 13th century, and it is now housed in the National Library of Sweden. A...

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