Douglas Kelly Knihy

The first complete collection of extant Medieval French Lays. Lays are short (typically 600-1000 lines), rhymed tales of love and chivalry.

The book offers an in-depth analysis of a significant theme prevalent in the works of Machaut, exploring its implications and relevance within his poetry and music. It delves into the intricacies of his artistic expression, shedding light on how this theme shapes the understanding of his contributions to medieval literature and music. Through detailed examination, the author reveals the connections between Machaut's themes and the broader cultural context of his time.

Focusing on the evolution of Chretien studies, this supplement to the 1976 bibliography showcases a broader range of global contributions. It features a comprehensive collection of works compiled with the help of an international team of scholars, highlighting the expanding research and interest in this area.

Set in the context of Old French literature, these texts serve as a vital link between classical narratives and the emerging French romances of the 12th century. Composed around 1150 to 1165, they reflect the cultural transition of the time, blending ancient stories with the evolving style of medieval storytelling, particularly seen in the works of Chrétien de Troyes. The translations of The Roman de Thèbes and the Roman d'Eneas highlight this unique literary evolution.

Chrétien de Troyes's reference to Macrobius on the art of description is indicative of the link between the vernacular literary tradition of rewriting and the Latin tradition of imitation. Crucial to this study are writings that bridge the span between elementary school exercises in imitation and the masterpieces of the art in Latin and French. The book follows the development of the medieval art of imitation through Macrobius and commentaries on Horace's Art of Poetry and then applies it to the interpretation of works on the Trojan War, consent in love and marriage, and lyric and vernacular insertions.