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The Lais of Marie de France

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1100

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Book Brief

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Marie De France

The Lais of Marie de France

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1100
Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Period
Setting

Brittany • Medieval

Publication Year

1100

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Lais of Marie de France is a collection of 12 Breton Lais by Marie de France, composed in the late 12th century. These short tales, written in octosyllabic rhyming couplets, are rooted in Brittany's Celtic-influenced culture and typically explore themes of love, chivalry, and the supernatural. The narratives, while short, intertwine elements of French courtly culture and mythology, featuring archetypical characters. Contains reference to death, deception, and imprisonment.

Mysterious

Romantic

Fantastical

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

9,314 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Lais of Marie de France enchants with its lyrical storytelling and rich exploration of medieval themes such as love, chivalry, and destiny. Critics praise its complex characters and vivid imagery. Some find the archaic language challenging, but many agree it adds authenticity. A timeless collection that intrigues and captivates despite occasional difficult passages.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Lais of Marie de France?

Readers who relish medieval romance, folklore, and poetic narratives akin to Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales or Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur will revel in The Lais of Marie de France. This collection intriguingly blends courtly love, adventure, and mythical elements, captivating those with a penchant for classic, lyrical storytelling.

4.2

9,314 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

164

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Period
Setting

Brittany • Medieval

Publication Year

1100

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

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