Les Lais de Marie de France
Adapted and updated by
Harry F. Williams (Florida State University)
Harry Williams' version of Les Lais de Marie de France is the result of more than twenty years of teaching the Lais and other Old French classics. All of the Lais-originally written in verse-have been put into modern French prose, while keeping some flavor of the old language–ideal for use in undergraduate introductions to Old French literature. The prose adaptation removes the linguistic problems that the original language poses.
A short introduction deals with Old French literature, Marie de France, and finally her Lais. With the text are explanatory footnotes, and questions for students' reflection follow each Lai. An updated bibliography completes the volume.
These charming Lais are a good introduction to medieval French literature, a good place to begin. Aside from the literary worth of the Lais, students will glimpse the daily life of medieval French nobles.
The new edition takes into account suggestions made by readers, reviewers, and colleagues.
Here is what the French Review said in 1970 about this book: "These short tales, in which realistic and supernatural elements freely mingle, make ideal reading for students of almost any level. The editor is to be commended for having provided what is essentially a new translation of the Lais for this school edition. It is eminently suitable for those teachers seeking stimulating and mature reading for their students." ISBN: 0-942566-06-8 paperback, viii + 133 pps. 1991, $11.95