The Pilgrime

Overview of "The Pilgrime" by William Baspoole

Publication Details: "The Pilgrime" was translated by William Baspoole and edited by Kathryn Walls with Marguerite Stobo. It was published in 2008 by the Arizona Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies in conjunction with the Renaissance English Text Society.

Plot Summary: "The Pilgrime" is an allegorical dream vision that translates the French Cistercian monk Guillaume de Deguileville's work, "Le Pelerinage de la vie humaine," into English prose. The original work was completed in 1330-31 and was later revised by Baspoole by 1633. The book is structured into three parts:

1. Historical, Literary, Polemical, and Linguistic Context: This section provides a comprehensive background on the historical context, literary significance, and linguistic nuances of the text (173 pages).
2. The 29 Chapters of Baspoole’s Text: This part includes the translated chapters of "The Pilgrime" with helpful footnotes and the full set of manuscript illustrations (180 pages).
3. General Commentary: This section compares "The Pilgrime" with its source material, highlighting differences and providing a commentary on the text (147 pages).

Key Themes:

• Allegory and Symbolism: The book is rich in allegorical elements, using symbols to convey moral and spiritual lessons.
• Spiritual Journey: The narrative follows a pilgrim on a journey through life, exploring themes of faith, morality, and spiritual growth.
• Historical Context: The work reflects the cultural and religious climate of its time, including the influence of Laudianism and the broader medieval and Renaissance context.

Critical Reception:

• Review by Daniel V. Runyon: The book received a positive review by Daniel V. Runyon, who noted the intriguing circumstances surrounding the translation and the historical significance of the work. He praised the thorough treatment by Kathryn Walls, which includes detailed footnotes and manuscript illustrations.
• Academic Recognition: The publication is part of the Medieval and Renaissance Texts and Studies series, indicating its academic rigor and relevance to scholars in the field.

Overall, "The Pilgrime" offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural landscape of the medieval period, providing both historical insight and literary significance through its allegorical narrative.