Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

The Norton Critical Edition includes Marie Borroffs verse translation, Laura L. Howess full introduction, two French tales of Sir Gawain, four selections from the original Middle English poem, and nine critical essays on the poems central themes. It is designed for undergraduate readers and has been read by over 12 million students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2021
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

The Norton Critical Edition is a comprehensive and invaluable resource for scholars and students of English literature. It includes a verse translation by Marie Borroff, comprehensive marginal glosses and explanatory footnotes, a full introduction by Laura L. Howess, an essay titled "The Metrical Forms" by Borroff, a "Translators Note" by Howess, two French tales of Sir Gawain, four selections from the original Middle English poem, and a passage from the Alliterative Morte Arthure. Additionally, the edition features nine critical essays on the central themes of the poems, four of which are new to the Second Edition. A chronology and a selected bibliography are also provided to enhance the reader's understanding of the literature and its historical context.

The Norton Critical Edition has been a trusted and widely used textbook for undergraduate students for over fifty-five years. Its three-part format, which includes annotated text, contexts, and criticism, facilitates a deeper understanding, analysis, and appreciation of the literature. This edition offers a wealth of resources that students need, whether they are studying in print or in digital format.

Marie Borroff's verse translation is renowned for its accuracy and artistry, making the poems accessible and engaging to a wide range of readers. The marginal glosses and explanatory footnotes provide valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of the poems, while Howess's introduction offers a comprehensive overview of the literature and its significance. Borroff's essay, "The Metrical Forms," explores the stylistic and structural elements of the poems, while Howess's "Translators Note" sheds light on the challenges and decisions involved in translating the works.

The inclusion of two French tales of Sir Gawain, four selections from the original Middle English poem, and a passage from the Alliterative Morte Arthure offers a comparative study and classroom discussion opportunities. These additional texts provide a broader perspective on the literature and allow students to explore different literary genres and styles.

The nine critical essays on the central themes of the poems are written by experts in the field and provide in-depth analysis and interpretation of the literature. These essays offer valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural contexts of the poems and help students to develop a deeper understanding of their literary significance.

In conclusion, the Norton Critical Edition is an essential resource for scholars and students of English literature. Its comprehensive content, verse translation, marginal glosses, explanatory footnotes, full introduction, essay, "Translators Note," additional texts, critical essays, chronology, and selected bibliography provide a wealth of information and insights that enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of the literature. Whether in print or in digital format, this edition is a valuable tool for students and scholars alike.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 129 x 213 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393532463
Edition number: Second Edition