Julian of Norwich (1342-1416), was a Christian mystic whose writings, "Revelation of Love" and "A Book of Showings," are the earliest surviving texts in the English language written by a woman. The question that has puzzled scholars for centuries follows: How could a woman of her time express her vision in such innovative and…

This study of the medieval Spanish concept of order examines uses made of the word "y" ("and") in Spanish medieval writing to join words and phrases connoting social, natural and human order. (Text is in Spanish.) (CHK)

Analyzes the realistic characterization and plot construction of an anonymously written medieval French play. The play, which relates the story of Christ's resurrection, achieves historical realism by replacing music and chant with dialogue, using a logical plot, and limiting historical anachronism. (AV)

Discusses the lack of consistent accuracy about historical figures in Chaucer's "Monk's Tale." The story of Nero fishing in the Tiber with golden nets is corroborated by many other ancient and medieval authors; however, the reference to Julius Caesar as being of lowly birth is peculiar only to Chaucer and a few medieval English authors.…

Although literature written especially for children has been a development of the past two centuries, most lasting works of children's literature derive their narrative patterns and structures of meaning from ancient and traditional literary forms and conventions, such as fable, myth, epic, and romance. This study provides an interpretive analysis…

Argues that a recognition of the non-representational nature of the Corpus Christi cycles yields an awareness of the rich, multidimensional theatrical panorama" they created. (Author/RD)

Examines the use of the second person pronoun in Chaucer's "Clerk's Tale" to demonstrate that students of medieval texts may well miss important areas of meaning if they fail to give adequate attention to the historical study of language. (GT)

Disputes assertions by some academics that Chaucer was the first technical writer in English. Suggests that numerous examples of technical prose predated Chaucer's works. Argues that technical writing historians will find it more profitable to investigate the tradition of English practical prose than to find further firsts for their field. (SG)

Advantage should be taken of the increased interest in teaching Old English literature, in translation, at the college and high school levels. The study of "Beowulf" and other Old English literature has proved to be a stimulating experience for students at the United States Air Force Academy and at Georgia College. At the academy, the…

Spenser's use of myth in the "Faerie Queene" to influence the reading public is described. Emphasis is placed on creating an attitude of legitimacy around the reign of Elizabeth I. (DE)

This lesson plan highlights one episode in the "Divine Comedy" to provide students with an introduction to Dante's poem. After a brief introduction to the opening of the "Divine Comedy," which portrays Dante as a pilgrim guided by the poet Virgil on a journey through the Christian afterlife toward God, students read Canto 5 of…