This critical study of medieval English romances uses ideas from anthropology and critical theories of the gift to shed light on narratives ranging from the twelfth to the fifteenth centuries. Written in a style accessible for students as well as scholars, it engages with questions about storytelling, agency, gender and material objects. -- .
From King Arthur and the Round Table to Alexander the Great's global conquests, the stories of romance appear in some of the most beautiful books of the Middle Ages. This book provides an engaging, scholarly, and richly illustrated guide to medieval romance and its continuing influence on literature and art.
Exploring the works of Hoccleve reveals a complex engagement with the political and literary dynamics of his era, challenging the perception of him as merely conventional and naive. The book delves into his nuanced contributions and the significance of his writings within the broader context of his time, highlighting the depth of his insight and the relevance of his themes.