Select Format
Select Condition 
Book Overview
These paired Arthurian legends suggest that erotic desire and the desire for companionship undergird national politics. The maiden Britomart, Queen Elizabeth's fictional ancestor, dons armor to search for a man whom she has seen in a crystal ball. While on this quest, she seeks to understand how one can be chaste while pursuing a sexual goal, in love with a man while passionately attached to a woman, a warrior princess yet a wife. As Spenser's most sensitively developed character, Britomart is capable of heroic deeds but also of teenage self-pity. Her experience is anatomized in the stories of other characters, where versions of love and friendship include physical gratification, torture, mutual aid, competition, spiritual ecstasy, self-sacrifice, genial teasing, jealousy, abduction, wise government, sedition, and the valiant defense of a pig shed.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0872208559
ISBN13:9780872208551
Release Date:November 2006
Publisher:Hackett Publishing Company
Length:512 Pages
Weight:1.35 lbs.
Dimensions:21.0" x 5.5" x 8.5"
Related Subjects
Classics English Literature Fantasy Epics Fiction Literature Literature & Fiction PoetryCustomer Reviews
1 rating
The book of chastity
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 16 years ago
Interesting how this is the book which is supposed to teach the reader of chastity. Certainly, it has its moments when the message comes through loud and clear, but the many footnotes which indicate word play and double meanings sometimes make it clear that there are nasty meanings to the verse. All in all, a difficult but rewarding read. This story takes place in a fantasy land, with certain characters who must learn about chastity. The original purpose, as stated by Spenser himself, is to teach the reader how to behave chastely. With the numerous situations which can be read as unchaste, it is a wonder the reader can get the intended meaning of the author. But along the way, it has some hilarious moments (the idea of Britomart within Castle Joyeous at the dinner table in full armor including visor comes to mind). I found the book refreshing and entertaining, with several laugh out loud situations.
Copyright © 2025 Thriftbooks.com
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information | Cookie Policy | Cookie Preferences | Accessibility Statement
ThriftBooks ® and the ThriftBooks ® logo are registered trademarks of Thrift Books Global, LLC
ThriftBooks ® and the ThriftBooks ® logo are registered trademarks of Thrift Books Global, LLC
