John Page’s "The siege of Rouen"

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John Page's narrative account of Henry V's siege of Normandy's capital in 1418-19 offers a unique eyewitness perspective in fifteenth-century English verse. Claiming to have been present, Page's narration blends patriotism and compassion, creating a complex verse chronicle that reflects both historical events and romantic elements. This sophisticated poem has garnered little critical attention until recently, despite its historical significance and the wealth of information it provides, often surpassing other contemporary sources. It is linked to the Middle English 'Brut' chronicle, illuminating its composition and treatment of source material. The text's clarity, beauty, and thematic complexity warrant further exploration. This volume represents the first critical edition since 1927, featuring an introduction that details the fourteen manuscripts where the text survives, whether complete or fragmented. It discusses historical context, authorship, language, metre, verse form, genre, literary background, and reception. Additionally, the edition includes a full collation of extant manuscripts, textual notes, commentary, glossary, and an index of personal and place names, enhancing its value for both literary and historical scholarship.