"There are few historical figures in the Middle Ages that cast a larger shadow than Charlemagne. This volume brings together a collection of studies on the Charlemagne legend from a wide range of fields, not only adding to the growing corpus of work on this legendary figure, but opening new avenues of inquiry by bringing together innovative trends that cross disciplinary boundaries. This collection expands the geographical frontiers, and extends the chronological scope beyond the Middle Ages from the heart of Carolingian Europe to Spain, England, and Iceland. The Charlemagne found here is one both familiar and strange and one who is both celebrated and critiqued. Contributors are Jada Bailey, Cullen Chandler, Carla Del Zotto, William Diebold, Christopher Flynn, Ana Grinberg, Elizabeth Melick, Jace Stuckey, and Larissa Tracy"--

The first full-length examination of the medieval Charlemagne tradition in the literature and culture of medieval England, from the Chanson de Roland to Caxton. The Matter of France, the legendary history of Charlemagne, had a central but now largely unrecognised place in the multilingual culture of medieval England. From the early claim in the Chanson de Roland that Charlemagne held England as his personal domain, to the later proliferation of Middle English romances of Charlemagne, the materials are woven into the insular political and cultural imagination. However, unlike the wide range of continental French romances, the insular tradition concentrates on stories of a few heroic characters: Roland, Fierabras, Otinel. Why did writers and audiences in England turn again and again to these narratives, rewriting and reinterpreting them for more than two hundred years? This book offers the first full-length, in-depth study of the tradition as manifested in literature and culture. It investigates the currency and impact of the Matter of France with equal attention to English and French-language texts, setting each individual manuscript or early printed text in its contemporary cultural and political context. The narratives are revealed to be extraordinarily adaptable, using the iconic opposition between Carolingian and Saracen heroes to reflect concerns with national politics, religious identity, the future of Christendom, chivalry and ethics, and monarchy and treason. PHILLIPA HARDMAN is Readerin Medieval English Literature (retired) at the University of Reading; MARIANNE AILES is Senior Lecturer in French at the University of Bristol.

In 'King Arthur: 10 Books of Tales & Myths about the Legendary King of Camelot', readers are invited into the multifaceted world of Arthurian legends through a collection that spans various literary styles and periods. This anthology encapsulates the enduring allure and complexity of the Arthurian myths, presenting a tapestry of tales that range from the chivalric romance of Thomas Malory to the mythic retellings of T. W. Rolleston, and the Victorian elegance of Alfred Tennyson. The diversity within offers a comprehensive exploration of the themes of honor, bravery, love, and betrayal that are synonymous with the legend of King Arthur, ensuring that each reader discovers a piece that resonates with them, whether through poetry, prose, or historical narrative. The contributors to this volume, including the visionary Howard Pyle and the imaginative Maude L. Radford, are united by their fascination with the Arthurian legend, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the mythology. Their collective works represent a cross-section of the evolutions in literary representation and thought concerning King Arthur and his knights, weaving together a historical and cultural tapestry that reflects the shifting values and ethos of their timesfrom medieval England to the resurgence of romanticism in Victorian literature. 'King Arthur: 10 Books of Tales & Myths about the Legendary King of Camelot' is an essential read for those who seek to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Arthur and his court. This anthology not only serves as a gateway to a legendary past but also as a dialogue between the varied interpretations and renditions of a timeless myth. It invites readers to explore the breadth and depth of Arthurian tales, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of this cornerstone of literary heritage. For scholars, enthusiasts, and new readers alike, this collection offers a unique opportunity to engage with the myriad ways the legend of King Arthur has been told, retold, and immortalized through the ages.

The land - The people - The languages of France - French myths and legends - French festivals and ceremonies of antiquity and today - The religions of France throughout its history - The art and architecture of France - The literature and music of France - Famous foods and recipes of France - Daily life and customs in France - France at a glance.