Cliges: A Romance

Cligès: A Romance, written in the 12th century by Chrétien de Troyes, is a notable Arthurian poem that explores themes of chivalry, love, and loyalty. The story follows Alexander, a young Greek nobleman, who travels to King Arthur's court seeking knighthood and becomes embroiled in a complex love affair with Soredamors. This translation by Burton Raffel captures the original's lively spirit and psychological depth, showcasing the brutal realities of medieval life and the intricacies of human emotion. It is the second of five surviving romances by de Troyes, known for its innovative narrative style and rich character portrayals.