Reading the Middle Ages: An Introduction to Medieval Literature

Description

Medieval literature is separated from us by so many centuries that it may seem completely foreign, both in its concerns and its techniques. However, this literature has much to say to 21st century readers and Steinberg's book demonstrates its continuing relevance and appeal. This introduction to medieval literature provides some of the cultural context that readers need to know in order to understand the literature, such as the religious orientation of the people, often deep and sincere but sometimes treated casually or subjected to intense scrutiny. The first chapter provides a brief explanation of medieval religious thought, cosmology and intellectual history. The remaining chapters provide introductions to a number of individual works ranging from Beowulf to the works of Chaucer. Avoiding the tendency to regard the Middle Ages as an era dominated by Christian men, these discussions include works by women writers and Jewish writers and a chapter on the medieval Japanese masterpiece The Tale of Genji. Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.;Preface -- Introduction -- I. Beowulf -- II. Chrétien de Troyes -- III. The Lais of Marie de France -- IV. The Romance of the Rose -- V. The Tale of Genji -- VI. Jewish Literature -- VII. Sagas -- VIII. Dante -- IX. Pearl and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight -- X. Chaucer -- Epilogue (But Not Retraction): From the Author to the Reader -- Notes -- Bibliography -- List of Names and Terms.