the book of margery kempe full text modern english

This new translation by Anthony Bale is presented in idiomatic modern English, but aims to stay true to the style of the original, sometimes homely and familiar, sometimes high-flown and Latinate.

'whatever view may be taken of Margery's visions, the book is extraordinarily lively and enjoyable, and gives an unparalleled glimpse of everyday life in that distant period of English history. 'This lively new edition preserves the author's forceful individuality, but makes her writing accessible to a new audience, and her book not only flings open a forgotten world but also comes garnished with useful notes and maps of her extensive travels.' - Good Book Guide, Fiona Lafferty His modern English is supple and responsive.' - Times Literary Supplement, Seth Lerer

Bale sensitively reviews all the textual, critical and ideological challenges of the work. 'Bale's Book of Margery Kempe offers the best modern version of the text and the most comprehensive and judicious assessment of scholarly and critical environments in which to read this strange and wondrous work. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more. This new translation preserves the forceful narrative voice of Kempe's Book and includes a wide-ranging introduction and useful notes.ĪBOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Her Book opens a window on to the medieval world, and provides a fascinating portrait of one woman's life, aspirations, and prayers. In her life and her boisterous devotion, Kempe antagonized many of those around her yet she also garnered friends and supporters who helped to record her experiences. She travelled to the most holy sites of the medieval world, including Rome and Jerusalem. She vividly describes her prayers and visions, as well as the temptations in daily life to which she succumbed before dedicating herself to her spiritual calling.

Known as the earliest autobiography written in the English language, Kempe's Book describes the dramatic transformation of its heroine from failed businesswoman and lustful young wife to devout and chaste pilgrim. 1436-8) is the extraordinary account of a medieval wife, mother, and mystic. 'Alas that I ever did sin! It is so merry in Heaven!' Oxford Research Encyclopedias: Global Public Health.The European Society of Cardiology Series.

Oxford Commentaries on International Law.

The book of margery kempe full text modern english