Originally titled William of Palerne , it was first translated from French and then converted into an alliterative Middle English romance by an obscure Gloucestershire scribe in c. 1350. It has never been translated into modern English - until now.
Written over 600 years ago, it is a multi-layered tale of poverty, justice, exile and 'otherness'; its themes of inheritance, the freedom of women, fairness and forgiveness, familial responsibility and social class, speak to us just as clearly today, and challenge us to reflect upon our class-driven politics and the corruption, entitlement and indifference which underlie it.
As with Michael Smith's other translations - Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and King Arthur's Death - The Romance of William and the Werewolf will feature a detailed historical introduction, a comprehensive glossary and notes, and Michael's own rich and beautiful linocut illustrations.
Autorentext
Michael Smith worked for several British publishing companies before becoming an author, translator and printmaker. He has a particular interest in the relationship between history, language and place.
Passionate about the need for integrity and honesty in leadership, he translates and illustrates Middle English romances from the 14th and 15th centuries, which he believes contain strong messages for those in power today.
He holds a degree in history and an MA in medieval literatures and languages from the University of York, where he is currently studying for his PhD on the effective presentation of 15th century Middle English poetry to modern audiences. Originally from the Cheshire/Lancashire borders, he now lives in Hertfordshire.