Old and Middle English Poetry gathers together the essential texts from the earliest writings in the vernacular up to the time of Chaucer. Contains a selection of the most significant Old and Middle English Poetry.Encapsulates the foundation and consolidation of literature written in English.Places traditional favourites are alongside less well-known titles, reflecting the ways in which the literary canon has changed in recent years.Includes a succinct introduction, which gives readers a sense of how literature developed during the period.Ideal for readers seeking a first introduction to the classic texts of English literature.
Elaine M. Treharne is Reader in Medieval Literature at the University of Leicester. Duncan Wu is a Fellow of St Catherine's College, Oxford, and University Lecturer in English Literature.
Series Editor's Preface. Introduction.1. From The Exeter Book:.Deor.The Wanderer.The Seafarer.The Wife's Lament.From The Vercelli Book.The Dream of the Rood.The Battle of Maldon.2. From The Beowulf-Manuscript:.3. From Beowulf (extract, X-XVIII):.Judith.4. From London, British Library, Cotton Caligula A.IX:.The Owl and the Nightingale.5. From The Auchinleck Manuscript:.Sir Orfeo.5. From London, British Library, Harley 2253:.Alysoun.Spring.An Old Man's Prayer.I Syke when Y Singe.Richard Rolle (c.1290-1349).Song of Love.Wynnere and Wastoure.Index of titles and first lines.