Edwards, Robert R., The Siege of Thebes (TEAMS Middle English Text Series. Kalamazoo, Michigan: Medieval Institute Publications) Read this source online
Text name(s): The Siege of Thebes
Number of pages of primary source text: 0
Author(s):
Dates: 1421 - 1422
Archival Reference:
Original Language(s):
- English - Middle English
Translation:
- Original language included.
Translation Comments:
Geopolitical Region(s):
- England
County/Region:
Record Types:
- Literature - Verse
Subject Headings:
- Literature - Epics, Romance
Apparatus:
- Glossary
- Bibliography
- Introduction
Comments:
This edition includes extensive textual notes translating difficult Middle English words and sentences, as well as footnotes providing background information and context where needed. Like all TEAMS editions of Middle English texts, the Middle English spelling is regularized and uses modern orthography.
Introduction Summary:
Lydgate’s version of the Siege of Thebes is the only retelling of this story in Middle English. He wrote it as a continuation of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Edwards discusses other versions of the story and their influence on Lydgate. He also examines Lydgate’s use of the Canterbury Tales frame story, and how he fits his tale into it. There are many political elements to the story as well, which critics have interpreted in various ways. Edwards discusses the main themes and values of the text. He also discusses the manuscripts that have survived and the history of the text.
Cataloger: MK
