The Most Pleasant History of Ornatus and Artesia. by Ford, Emanuel. Stanivukovic, Goran, editor - 2003: A Prose Romance

Barnabe Riche Society Publications 16. Dovehouse Editions, Ottawa, 2003. Hard Cover. 250 p., illus., 21.5 cm. Edited with Introduction and Notes by Goran Stanivukovic. 'Wherein is contained the uniust Raigne of Théon King of Phrygia. Who with his sonne Lenon, (intending Ornatus death,) right Heire to the Crowne, was afterwards slaine by his owne Servants, and Ornatus after many extreame miseries, Crowned King.' This is one of the most charming and readable of all Elizabethan romances, and perfect for illustrating the conventions of the genre. It is a study in erotic desire and cross-genderal disguise. A rival, incarcerations in castles, and narrow escapes keep the action moving. The introduction deals with resemblances to the Romeo and Juliet story, the fictional landscapes of Natolia and Phrygia, gender and disguise, and Ford's style. Includes bibliography. Color pictorial boards; new from publisher. stock#102033.