This book provides a boldly original account of Middle English literature from the Norman Conquest to the beginning of the sixteenth century. It argues that these centuries are, in fundamental ways, the momentous period in our literary history, for they are the long moment in which the category of literature itself emerged as English writing began to insist, for the first time, that it floated free of any social reality or function. This book also charts the complex mechanisms by which English writing acquired this power in a series of linked close readings of both canonical and more obscure texts. It encloses those readings in five compelling accounts of much broader cultural areas, describing, in particular, the productive relationship of Middle English writing to medieval technology, insurgency, statecraft and cultural place, concluding with an in depth account of the particular arguments, emphases and techniques English writers used to claim a wholly new jurisdiction for their work. Both this history and its readings are everywhere informed by the most exciting developments in recent Middle English scholarship as well as literary and cultural theory. It serves as an introduction to all these areas as well as a contribution, in its own right, to each of them.

The U.S. Mint is the source of the little copper, silver, and gold objects of material culture and value that numismatists collect, study, and catalog. It is the sole manufacturer of the nation's legal-tender coinage, and its products are used every day by millions of Americans nationwide. As a repository its facilities safeguard more than $300 billion in national assets. It employs nearly 2,000 people, including its own police force. This unique book unearths a treasure trove of numismatic knowledge, including the history of the Philadelphia Mint and every Mint branch, plus private and territorial mints; information on historical and modern minting procedures; a study and price guide of historic medals and other collectibles commemorating the Mint; data on every director of the Mint and superintendents for every branch; and illustrated behind-the-scenes looks at the modern Mint and its facilities.

In conjunction with the American Numismatic Association, author David W. Lange and researcher Mary Jo Meade present a fascinating look into the history of the United States Mint. From its roots in the pre-colonial eras, through independence and confederation, the intriques, tribulations, and triumphs of the 1800's, and into the modern day-through war, peace, famine, earthquakes, gold rushes, good times and bad-we follow the twists and turns of one of the federal government's most intriguing bureaus. This hard cover book features vintage photographs and documents throughout. Hundreds of enlarged, high-detailed images of American coins, tokens, medals and much more to enjoy!

Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, is one of the best-loved movie stars and sex goddesses of all time, although she died much too young at the age of thirty six. A life-time struggle with self-confidence, tumultuous marriages, ill health, and drug and alcohol addictions, Marilyn's movie career suffered in the last years before her death This book is a brief history of Marilyn Monroe's short life. It contains a history of her early years, her modeling and early acting, her early film work, and her decline and death. It is filled with full color photos of Marilyn throughout her life, and contains a full filmography. Marilyn worked with some of the best directors of her day and pushed herself to excel in comedic, dramatic, and musical roles. She was only the second female movie star to create her own production companyâ??she may have played the dumb blond, but that was just another role for Marilyn.