Nine Medieval Romances of Magic: Re-Rhymed in Modern English

by Marijane Osborn (Editor)

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 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.

Genres: Romance, Classics, Poetry

264 pages, Paperback

First published March 5, 2010

About the author

Marijane Osborn is a retired professor at the University of California in Davis. Her course in life was set in childhood by her discovery of Robert Louis Stevenson's poem beginning 'I would like to rise and go'. Accordingly, she has lived and taught in many interesting places, but one of the most joyous was Edinburgh when she was awarded a fellowship at the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities. While working on the project that led soon afterwards to a good academic job, she also read all the Scottish literature she could manage. Her children's fantasy novel The Woods of Leith is infused with that reading and by living near St. Bernard's Well and the Water of Leith,

Reviews

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some topics within it that may be sensitive to some readers, however this book is an enjoyable read for those interested in medieval tales which have moral significance in some stories. If you like any stories from Shakespeare or anything to do with tales of Arthur and the knights of the round table you will like this read.

[Stacia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, this was more fun than I thought. Werewolves and knights and demons, oh my!

[Celine Low · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love the stories but I think some of the magic seems lost in translation ... pity.