"[A]n eminently readable text, done clearly and accurately . . . it gives as good an idea as a translation can of the complexity and subtlety of Chretien's originals. . . . The text is provided by a translator who understands the spirit as well as the letter of the original and renders it with style. . . . [T]his translation should attract a wide audience of students and Arthurian enthusiasts." -Speculum

"[A] significant contribution to the field of medieval studies [and] a pleasure to read." -Library Journal

"These are, above all, stories of courtly love and of knights tested in their devotion to chivalric ideals (with passion and duty often at odds); but they are also thrilling wonder stories of giants, wild men, tame lions, razor-sharp bridges and visits to the Other World." -Washington Post Book World

"This tastefully produced book will be the standard general translation for many years to come." -Choice

This new translation brings to life for a new generation of readers the stories of King Arthur, Lancelot, Guinevere, Gawain, Perceval, Yvain, and the other "knights and ladies" of Chretien de Troyes' famous romances.

A Selection of The Reader's Subscription

About the Author

David Staines is Professor of English at the University of Ottawa, widely published scholar, and general editor of the New Canadian Library.

Reviews

Chretien is where the literary tradition of the Arthurian romance can be seen to begin. . . . His poems are the earliest we have that portray knights errant questing through dangerous forests to challenge unknown opponents and to learn the meaning of love. . . . Staines [also] provides the first, and only, English translation of "Guillaume d'Angeleterre" [and] it is very good to have it available.

* Times Literary Supplement *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253207876
Author David Staines
Format Paperback
Page Count 576
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 875g