Dialogues in French and English

Step into a rare window on late‑medieval life, where everyday conversations are recorded in both French and English. This meticulously edited volume presents a collection of short dialogues that once guided travelers and merchants through the practical language of the streets, markets, and courts of 14th‑century Europe. The text is reproduced directly from William Caxton’s pioneering print of the 1480s, preserving the original wording, quirks, and even the occasional typographical oddity.

An introductory essay and extensive notes illuminate the cultural backdrop, explain the curious blend of French, Flemish, and early English, and point out the fascinating mistranslations that reveal Caxton’s long exile abroad. Helpful word‑lists let listeners match terms across the two languages, turning the work into a lively linguistic tour. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the roots of modern English, this edition offers a vivid, scholarly journey into the past.