English Language and Literature ETDs

Lena Exum

Publication Date

3-21-1958

Abstract

Comparison of the Alliterative Arthurian romances reveals not only resemblances to other Middle English romances but also a puzzling uniqueness which sets alliterative verse apart from other poetry of the period. Alliterative romance is patriotic and pious. Although influenced by French romance, it clings to the original English heroes and to deeds pertaining to them or to deeds of the Romans; and it shuns French verse forms to use an alliterative line which has already degenerated and become obsolete. As Dorothy Everett points out, "the [alliterative] poets seem, in general, to have avoided love-romances and to have preferred historical, or pseudo-historical subjects such as the Trojan war, the life of Alexander, the conquests and death of Arthur. One of the few exceptions, William of Palerne, shows how right this instinct was."

Degree Name

English

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

English

First Committee Member (Chair)

Thomas Matthews Pearce

Second Committee Member

Dane Farnsworth Smith

Third Committee Member

Cecil Vivian Wicker

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

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