Middle English Chronicle of the First Crusade – The Caxton Eracles

Description

The Eracles text, a condensed Crusader chronicle driving from William of Tyres A History of Deeds Done Beyond the Sea, concerns the march to and campaigning in the Holy Land, focusing on the suffering and heroism of the First Crusaders as they sought to gain glory for God and establish a Christian state in a distant and misunderstood environment. In 1481, William Caxton produced a Middle English translation of this text, which he named A Boke Intituled Eracles, or Godeffroy of Boloyne. This two-volume set is the first treatment of Caxtons work in over a century. It is the first ever modern English translation of the work, providing an easily accessible translation combined with contextual and critical information. It examines two aspects of the Eracles chronicle. First, the book illuminates the history of the text by referring to the Latin and French ancestors of Caxtons Eracles, as well as investigating Caxtons methods, abilities and motivations. Previous treatments of the chronicle are examined, correcting discrepancies and providing alternative interpretations. Second, the book investigates the history in the text by using the latest research to further contextualize and clarify the military events described. The author has developed a striking new concept of understanding the interpersonal relationships between the Crusaders, allowing the reader to perceive the inner workings of the Crusade itself.