Publisher's Synopsis
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket
Filled with tales of love, chivalry, and supernatural encounters, this collection of medieval Breton lais weaves together stories of knights, noblewomen, and the trials they face in pursuit of honor and desire. Each poem presents a vivid world where fate, loyalty, and hidden truths shape the destinies of its characters, often testing their courage and devotion. Mysterious transformations, secret messages, and forbidden romances unfold with poetic elegance, capturing the complexities of courtly life and the power of love. Rich with symbolism and intrigue, these timeless narratives continue to enchant readers with their blend of adventure and emotion.
A cornerstone of medieval literature, The Lais of Marie de France offers a rare glimpse into the courtly ideals and storytelling traditions of 12th-century Europe. As one of the earliest known female poets, Marie de France gives voice to themes of love, fate, and personal agency in a time when women's perspectives were rarely recorded. Blending Celtic folklore with the refined culture of the Anglo-Norman court, her work helped shape the development of romance literature. Revered for its poetic beauty and psychological depth, these tales continue to influence modern storytelling, preserving a legacy of intrigue, passion, and the enduring power of narrative.
