The Example of Vertu: The Example of Virtue

Stephen Hawes

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'The Example of Vertu', Stephen Hawes presents a didactic narrative that transcends the mere replication of moral platitudes, instead weaving a rich tapestry that captivates the reader with its allegorical brilliance and rhythmic elegance. Drawing from the chivalric and allegorical traditions that flourished during the late medieval period, Hawes crafts a story that is both instructive and entertaining, employing a language that reflects the literary context of pre-Renaissance England. DigiCat Publishing's meticulous reproduction of this work offers both scholars and casual readers alike a glimpse into the resonant prose that characterizes this classic of world literature, now revitalized in a format suited to contemporary consumption. Stephen Hawes's authorship of 'The Example of Vertu' emerges as a singular testimony to his mastery of poetic forms and his deep-seated intellectual engagement with the virtues that underpin the human condition. This piece, likely influenced by his occupation at the royal court and his learned experiences, encapsulates the wisdom of his time, emboldening readers to reflect upon life's perennial struggles between vice and virtue. Hawes's own scholarly pursuits and keen observation of courtly life inform the rich detail and profound moral introspection evident within the text. For those drawn to the intricacies of early English literature and the contemplation of ethical principles through poetic narrative, 'The Example of Vertu' is an indispensable addition to any collection. DigiCat Publishing's commitment to preserving the integrity of such time-honored texts ensures that Hawes's legacy endures, allowing a modern audience the opportunity to engage with the enduring questions of virtue that have shaped human society. Hawes's work invites readers to both appreciate the artistry of his composition and to find guidance in the virtuous examples his verses extol.

About the author

Stephen Hawes was an English poet during the late-15th and early-16th centuries, recognized mainly for his contribution to the allegorical style of poetry that was prevalent in the medieval period. Though the exact dates of his birth and death are not precisely known, it is commonly believed he flourished during the reign of King Henry VII. Hawes earned his reputation as a scholarly poet with his elaborate and moralistic work, 'The Example of Vertu,' which encapsulates his didactic and allegorical approach to literature. This narrative poem illustrates the life journey of a knight who personifies Virtue and through his adventures confronts various vices and worldly challenges. The text, rich in chivalric symbolism, serves as a guide for the moral education of its readers, reflecting the societal values of his time. Hawes's literary output is reflective of a transition period in English literature, where the medieval tradition began to give way to Renaissance humanism. His works exhibit a blend of religious and courtly themes, melding piety with the culture of courtly love and knighthood, echoing the style of earlier writers like Geoffrey Chaucer and John Lydgate, while also prefiguring the moral literature that would become prominent in the Elizabethan era.