Lancelot of the Laik: A Scottish Metrical Romance (About 1490-1500 A. D.)

In this medieval Scottish romance, a bold knight named Lancelot of the Lake sets out on a quest that intertwines love, loyalty, and the supernatural. He rides through mist‑laden highlands, confronts rival chieftains, and seeks the favor of mysterious allies, all while his heart is torn between duty and a secret affection. The tale unfolds in a lively metrical form that captures the rhythm of courtly song and the raw vigor of battle.

The edition presents a careful transcription from a 15th‑century manuscript, preserving the original spelling, long s, and occasional yogh, while offering a clear modern reading for listeners. An accompanying glossary explains archaic words and symbols, and scholarly notes shed light on the poem’s cultural backdrop. This balance lets you hear the ancient voice without getting lost in its complexities.