Synopses & Reviews
The Ancrene Wisse, a guide for female recluses in the West Midlands in the early thirteenth century, and the closely related works of the "Katherine Group," offer vivid and fascinating insights into the religious life of the time. The difficulty of the language however, which skillfully blends Latin and native English stylistic traditions, has made the documents largely inaccessible to all but experts in Middle English. This edition presents the works in a new and readable critical text that includes interspersed translations, notes, a select glossary, and a general introduction, making this volume highly useful to undergraduates and generalists with limited knowledge of Middle English.
Review
"The introduction, translations, glossary, and commentaries make it a wonderful teaching text."--Karen Swenson, Virginia Tech
"Very well conceived production of some fascinating texts that should be accessible to undergraduates as well as graduate students."--Suzanne Rahn, Pacific Lutheran University
"This is a much-needed edition. The dual-language format is ideal."--Linda Marie Zaerr, Boise State University
"Women's Studies are extended and transcended in this attractive and important book....Will lead to a revival of interest."--Notes and Queries
"A scholarly and admirably sensible collection of Middle English treatises....This book will surely be used by scholars of all aspects of Christian cultural history."--Religious Studies Review