Peter Dronke illuminates a unique literary tradition: the narrative that mixes prose with verse. Highlighting a wide range of text, he defines and explores the creative ways in which mixed forms were used in Europe from antiquity through to the 13th century. "Verse with Prose" distinguishes some of the most significant use of mixed forms. Dronke looks at the way prose and verse elements function in satirical works, beginning in the 3rd century BC with Menippus. He examines allegorical techniques in the mixed form, paying attention to Boethius' "Consolation of Philosophy". His analysis encompasses a feast of medieval saga and romances - ranging from Iceland to Italy - including vernacular works by Marguerite Porete in France and Mechthild in Germany. A number of the medieval Latin texts presented have remained virtually unknown, but emerge here as narratives with unusual and at times brilliant literary qualities. To enable not only specialists but all who love literature to respond to the works discussed, they are quoted on fresh translations, as well as in the originals.
- ISBN13 9780674330481
- Publish Date 1 January 1994
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Harvard University Press
- Format eBook
- Pages 148
- Language English
- URL http://degruyter.com/search?f_0=isbnissn&q_0=9780674330481&searchTitles=true