The function of literature and words changes dramatically over the centuries, particularly when dealing with medieval literature. The most common misconception among students and dated textbooks is that medieval French literature is merely a 'recording' of an oral tradition. In this book Simon Gaunt draws a picture of medieval literature, showing that medieval writers were in fact very aware that they were retelling tales in a new medium.

The function of literature and words changes dramatically over the centuries, particularly when dealing with medieval literature. The most common misconception among students and dated textbooks is that medieval French literature is merely a 'recording' of an oral tradition. In this book Simon Gaunt draws a picture of medieval literature, showing that medieval writers were in fact very aware that they were retelling tales in a new medium.