Old French Romances, Done into English

Step into the world of medieval chivalry with a careful translation of four classic Old French romances. William Morris, famed for his love of craftsmanship, has rendered these 12th‑century tales into vivid English prose, preserving the original’s lyric tone while making it accessible to modern ears. An insightful introduction by Joseph Jacobs situates the stories within the cultural exchange between Byzantine and Western Europe, offering listeners a brief guide to the historical backdrop. The collection, once limited to fine‑press editions, now arrives in a format that welcomes any lover of historic narrative.

The opening romance spins a playful etymology for Constantinople, recounting how a noble yet fictional ruler named Coustans gives his name to the great city in a tale of boastful deeds and clever wordplay. Subsequent stories follow knights such as Heracles, Athis, and Clarus as they embark on quests filled with courtly love, enchanted encounters, and the occasional battle of wits. Listeners will hear the bright cadence of medieval diction, the sparkle of troubadour storytelling, and a sense of adventure that feels both timeless and freshly alive.