UNLOCKING THE BRILLIANCE OF WILLIAM LANGLAND: A JOURNEY INTO THE MYSTERIES OF "PIERS PLOWMAN"
Keywords:
Key words: William Langland, Piers Plowman, English literature, Intellectual influences, Biographical information, Masterpiece, Creative spirit, Literary legacy, Uncertainty, Tumultuous events, Black Death, Social unrestAbstract
William Langland, an enigmatic figure of medieval England, holds a prominent position among poets of his era. His seminal work, "Piers Plowman," stands as a sprawling allegorical masterpiece, providing profound insights into the multifaceted landscape of 14th-century society, encompassing socio-political, religious, and philosophical dimensions. Despite centuries of scholarly inquiry, Langland and his literary legacy remain compelling subjects for both enthusiasts and historians, attesting to the enduring fascination surrounding his persona and creations. This article aims to delve into the life and literary contributions of William Langland, offering a comprehensive exploration of the complexities embedded within "Piers Plowman." By unraveling the intricate tapestry of Langland's magnum opus, we seek to illuminate its enduring significance within the realms of both literature and culture, thereby enriching our understanding of this influential figure and his timeless work.
References
Aers, David. (1982). "Langland, Structure and History." London: Routledge.
Kane, George. (1997). "Middle English Literature: A Cultural History." Oxford: Blackwell Publishers.
Russell, Andrew B. (2002). "Langland and Chaucer: Sources and Analogues of the Canterbury Tales." Cambridge: D.S. Brewer.
Strohm, Paul. (2013). "Medieval English Literature." Cambridge: Polity Press.
Sites:
Project Gutenberg https://www.gutenberg.org/
The British Library https://www.bl.uk/
The Online Medieval and Classical Library (OMACL) http://omacl.org/