About the author: Chretien de Troyes was a late 12th century French poet known for his work on Arthurian subjects, and for originating the character Lancelot. This work represents some of the best-regarded of medieval literature. His use of structure, particularly in Yvain, the Knight of the Lion, has been seen as a step towards the modern novel. Between 1160 and 1172 he served at the court of his patroness Marie of France, Countess of Champagne, daughter of Eleanor of Aquitaine.
About the translator: William Wistar Comfort (1874-1955) was president of Haverford College, Philadelphia, Penns...