Full Description
In this book, Marijane Osborn translates into modern English nine lively medieval verse romances, in a form that both reflects the original and makes the romances inviting to a modern audience. All nine tales contain elements of magic: shapeshifters, powerful fairies, trees that are portals to another world, and enchanted clothing and armor. Many of the tales also feature powerful women characters, while others include representations of "Saracens." The tales address issues of enduring interest and concern, and also address sexuality, agency, and identity formation in unexpected ways.
Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1
The Tale of Florent (John Gower)
CHAPTER 2
The Wife of Bath's Tale (Geoffrey Chaucer)
CHAPTER 3
Thomas of Erceldoune
CHAPTER 4
Sir Orfeo
CHAPTER 5
Sir Launfal (Thomas Chestre)
CHAPTER 6
Sir Thopas (Geoffrey Chaucer)
CHAPTER 7
Emaré
CHAPTER 8
Sir Gowther
CHAPTER 9
Floris and Blancheflour
APPENDIX A
Two Additional Tales
Sir Libeaus and the Lamia
Tam Lin
APPENDIX B
Hearing the Music of the Text:
A Justification for Translating Metrical Romances into Verse
BIBLIOGRAPHY
INDEX
