Travels to the Otherworld and Other Fantastic Realms: Medieval Journeys into the Beyond

A collection of tales from the Middle Ages, "Medieval Travelers Tales" reveals voyages to Heaven and Hell, the realm of the Faery, and mystical lands, along with encounters with mythic beasts. These tales drew on various sources for material, including geographies, encyclopedias, travel accounts, bestiaries, and herbals, to captivate their audiences. The stories include voyages into the afterlife, encounters with strange creatures, doppelgangers, angels, heroes, and chivalric romantic misadventures. Accompanied by rare illustrations from incunabula and medieval manuscripts, the collection offers an introduction to the medieval imaginings of a wondrous universe and allows readers to survey mythic geography, meet people from the far ends of the earth, and experience the supernatural.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Here is the rephrased text:

During the Middle Ages, venturing into the unknown was a perilous endeavor, as countless dangers lurked around every corner. However, the written accounts of these brave explorers provide us with a glimpse into the extraordinary tales that unfolded during their journeys. In the medieval age of intercontinental exploration, tales of sea monsters, strange hybrid beasts, mischievous faeries, accidental trips to the afterlife, and people as fantastic and dangerous as the lands they inhabited abounded.

This curated collection of medieval travelers' tales, edited by Claude and Corinne Lecouteux, explores how the Middle Ages were a melting pot of narrative traditions from across the globe. These tales often drew on various sources, including geographies, encyclopedias, travel accounts, bestiaries, and herbals, to captivate their audiences, who were fascinated by the wonders being discovered by explorers of the time.

Accompanied by rare illustrations from incunabula and medieval manuscripts, the stories in this collection transport readers to otherworldly realms. From voyages into the afterlife, where guided tours of Hell and glimpses of Heaven are offered, to journeys into the pagan land of the Faery, where mythical creatures and enchanted landscapes await, readers are taken on a journey beyond their wildest imagination.

Furthermore, these tales shed light on the cultural and societal beliefs of the Middle Ages. They explore the concept of the afterlife, the existence of supernatural beings, and the role of chivalry and romance in the lives of medieval heroes. The stories also provide a window into the daily lives of ordinary people, who faced their own challenges and adventures in a world that was both familiar and mysterious.

In conclusion, this collection of medieval travelers' tales is a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of medieval culture and society, providing a deeper understanding of the world that existed during this fascinating period. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of fantasy, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this collection is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you wanting more.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781620559420