About the book
In An Introduction to the Gawain Poet, John Bowers surveys an expanded selection of the works of Chaucer's anonymous contemporary, considering Sir Gawain and the Green Knight alongside the poet's lesser known but no less brilliant works.
In addition to his succinct introductions and plot summaries, Bowers skillfully details the cultural, historical, political, and religious contexts for these works, synthesizing them with close reading of selected passages. Perhaps his most exciting contribution to the field is his choice to historicize the poet's life and works in the context of the royal culture of King Richard II, boldly contending that it was highly possible the Gawain Poet was a frequent visitor to Richard's court in London.
The final chapter surveys the works influenced by, as well as the influences reflected in, the poet's work, from the Bible to The Lord of the Rings. The attention Bowers pays to the critical tradition that has developed around these texts over the past hundred years makes An Introduction to the Gawain Poet an ideal volume for both undergraduate students and scholars of the Gawain Poet. Bowers has marshaled his formidable skills to create a book impressive in its balanced combination of breadth and depth.
Editions of An Introduction to the Gawain Poet
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780813040158
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780813049588
- EBook
- ISBN 9780813072104
- PDF
- ISBN 9780813057958
Read an Excerpt
In An Introduction to the Gawain Poet, John Bowers surveys an expanded selection of the works of Chaucer's anonymous contemporary, considering Sir Gawain and the Green Knight alongside the poet's lesser known but no less brilliant works.
In addition to his succinct introductions and plot summaries, Bowers skillfully details the cultural, historical, political, and religious contexts for these works, synthesizing them with close reading of selected passages. Perhaps his most exciting contribution to the field is his choice to historicize the poet's life and works in the context of the royal culture of King Richard II, boldly contending that it was highly possible the Gawain Poet was a frequent visitor to Richard's court in London.
The final chapter surveys the works influenced by, as well as the influences reflected in, the poet's work, from the Bible to The Lord of the Rings. The attention Bowers pays to the critical tradition that has developed around these texts over the past hundred years makes An Introduction to the Gawain Poet an ideal volume for both undergraduate students and scholars of the Gawain Poet. Bowers has marshaled his formidable skills to create a book impressive in its balanced combination of breadth and depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is An Introduction to the Gawain Poet about?
In An Introduction to the Gawain Poet, John Bowers surveys an expanded selection of the works of Chaucer's anonymous contemporary, considering Sir Gawain and the Green Knight alongside the poet's lesser known but no less brilliant works.
In addition to his succinct introductions and plot summaries, Bowers skillfully details the cultural, historical, political, and religious contexts for these works, synthesizing them with close reading of selected passages. Perhaps his most exciting contribution to the field is his choice to historicize the poet's life and works in the context of the royal culture of King Richard II, boldly contending that it was highly possible the Gawain Poet was a frequent visitor to Richard's court in London.
The final chapter surveys the works influenced by, as well as the influences reflected in, the poet's work, from the Bible to The Lord of the Rings. The attention Bowers pays to the critical tradition that has developed around these texts over the past hundred years makes An Introduction to the Gawain Poet an ideal volume for both undergraduate students and scholars of the Gawain Poet. Bowers has marshaled his formidable skills to create a book impressive in its balanced combination of breadth and depth.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in An Introduction to the Gawain Poet?
Biography, Literature and Literary studies > Literature: history and criticism > Literary studies: general > Literary studies: ancient, classical and medieval
Where can I read a sample of An Introduction to the Gawain Poet?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780813040158
Is An Introduction to the Gawain Poet part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series New Perspectives on Medieval Literature: Authors and Traditions
Who is/are the Author/s of the book An Introduction to the Gawain Poet?
John M Bowers
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
An Introduction to the Gawain Poet is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780813040158) and paperback(ISBN 9780813049588) and ebook(ISBN 9780813072104) and pdf(ISBN 9780813057958)
Where can I buy An Introduction to the Gawain Poet online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy An Introduction to the Gawain Poet from below
Where can I buy An Introduction to the Gawain Poet?