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

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 magic: 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.

Marijane Osborn is Professor Emeritus of English at the University of California, Davis. A poet, she is also a widely published scholar and translator of Old and Middle English literature.