From Chanson de Geste to Epic Chronicle: Medieval Occitan Poetry of War

Gérard Gouiran's collection of essays explores medieval Occitan literature from a historical perspective, examining topics such as the representation of alterity, intertextuality, and cultural representations. The book is written in an approachable style and will be of interest to scholars, students, and readers curious about this little-known literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In this captivating collection of essays, Gérard Gouiran, a renowned and cherished scholar of medieval Occitan literature, delves into the realm of this rich literary tradition with a primarily historical lens. Through a series of texts that offer hitherto unexplored insights into the history and culture of medieval Europe, he explores a range of intriguing topics, including the portrayal of alterity through female figures and Saracens in contrast to the ideal of the Christian knight; the ways in which the narration of history can transform into resistance and propaganda discourse in the clashes between the Catholic Church and the French on one hand, and the Cathar heretics and the people of Occitania on the other; the complexities of intertextuality and intercultural relations; cultural representations shaping the West's interactions with the East; and the emergence of Christian dissidence during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Written in a accessible and engaging style, this book appeals to scholars, students, and any reader with a curiosity about this lesser-known facet of Occitan literature. Its rich content and scholarly approach make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this captivating period of history.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032336589