Encyclopaedia Maxima Mundi, created by Effenberg and Talbot, is a multi-volume work detailing many notable people and occurrences throughout the history of the continent and the world in general. Fragments of this fictional book are sometimes used as introductions to stories or chapters in Sapkowski's works. It was generally considered to be a piece of Nilfgaardian propaganda and the information in it is highly selective, subjective and not particularly scientifically rigourous. Those fragments have, so far, apparently featured the following:
Excepts
Note that these excerpts have been inexpertly translated from the French translation of the original Polish!
- Houvenaghel, Dominik Bombastus (1239–1301) – Became rich in the province of Ebbing by conducting large-scale enterprises; set up business in Nilfgaard. Already respected by previous emperors, he was elevated to the rank of viscount and zupparius salis of Venendal by Jan Calveit; as reward for services rendered, the office of mayor was awarded. Faithful counsellor to the emperor, Houvenaghel benefitted from his full confidence and took part in many public affairs. Already in Ebbing, he had indulged in many charity ventures, spending considerable sums of money to support the needy and the poor and to build orphanages, hospitals and daycare facilites. A great lover of fine art and sports, he had a theatre and a stadium built in the capital, both of which bore his name. He was a model of propriety, honesty and respectability in mercantile circles.
Effenberg and Talbot
Encyclopaedia Maxima Mundi, tome VII
- Delannoy, Flourens (1432–1510) – Linguist and historian. Born in Vicovaro, secretary and libraian to the imperial court from 1460 to 1475. Tireless researcher into legends and folklore, author of numerous important treasises considered to be seminal works of linguistic history and literature from the northern regions of the Empire. Among his most important works, one could cite: Myths and Legends of the Nordlings, Fairytales and Stories, Surprise or the Myth of Elder Blood, The Witcher Saga, as well as The Witcher and the Witcheress, or a search unending. Beginning in 1476, he officiates as professor at the academy of Castell Graupian where he dies in 1510. »
Effenberg and Talbot
Encyclopaedia Maxima Mundi, tome IV