The Faerie Queene is the first great epic poem in the English language. It is a long and complex allegory, which presents the first-time reader with many difficulties of allusion and interpretation. This book is the only convenient and up-to-date guide to Spenser's poem, and is designed as a handbook to be consulted by students while reading the poem. Each chapter is devoted to a separate book of the poem, and sub-sections treat particular episodes or sequences of episodes in detail. Dr Heale considers fully the religious and political context, and pays due attention to the variety of Spenser's literary techniques. She encourages close reading of the poem and a lively awareness of both its rich detail and the intricate interrelation of its episodes. This revised edition takes account of recent developments in Spenserian criticism, and brings the guidance on further reading up to date.

‘Aimed primarily at undergraduates, this admirable guide ought to be in every library where readers may first encounter The Faerie Queene. Highly recommended.’

Source: Choice

‘The Faerie Queene: A Reader’s Guide will be welcomed by students since it is sensible, helpful, and more up-to-date than any competing introduction.’

Source: English Studies