The Romance of William and the Werewolf
Description
A magical, long-forgotten masterpiece, The Romance of William and the Werewolf is the story of two outcast princes who overcome injustice to reclaim their inheritance and build a society based on tolerance and good government.
Referred to by scholars as William of Palerne, it was first translated from French and then converted into an alliterative Middle English romance by an obscure West Midlands scribe in c. 1350. It has never been formally translated into modern English – until now.
Written nearly 700 years ago, it speaks to us just as clearly today. It's themes of rightful inheritance, a woman's freedom to choose, social class and justice, challenge us to reflect upon our own contemporary politics and the sense of corruption and entitlement which underpin it.
As with Michael Smith's other translations – Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and King Arthur's Death – The Romance of William and the Werewolf features a detailed historical introduction, comprehensive explanatory notes, and Michael's own rich and beautiful linocut illustrations.