Piers Plowman

A new translation of a 14th-century poem, Piers Plowman critiques corruption and societal issues through allegorical dreams, maintaining the original's poetic style.

William Langland's 14th-century poem Piers Plowman serves as a compelling and often humorous critique of societal corruption and greed, themes that resonate even in today's world. The poem unfolds through a series of dreams experienced by the narrator, who embarks on a quest for a virtuous life. Throughout this journey, Piers, the honest plowman, appears in various forms, representing the struggle for integrity amidst a backdrop of moral ambiguity. Characters embodying virtues such as Conscience, Fidelity, and Charity stand in stark contrast to figures of deceit like Falsehood and Guile, reflecting the complexities of contemporary society, including politics and personal relationships.

The narrative confronts pressing social issues, such as governance, economic disparity, and the intricacies of justice, while also exploring the limits of knowledge and the role of faith in the natural world. This allegorical framework makes Piers Plowman not just a historical artifact but a relevant commentary on the human condition, inviting readers to reflect on their moral choices and societal responsibilities.

This new verse translation of Piers Plowman from Middle English captures the original's vibrant energy, rich imagery, and intent while maintaining its distinctive alliterative style. This translation aims to make the text accessible to modern readers while honoring Langland's poetic craftsmanship, making it suitable for both academic study and personal exploration.