Spenser's Faerie Queene, Vol. 1 (of 2) : $b Books I-III

by Edmund Spenser

"Spenser's Faerie Queene, Vol. 1 (of 2): Books I-III" by Edmund Spenser is an epic poem first published in 1590. This monumental work of over 36,000 lines follows knights on quests that examine different virtues—Holiness, Temperance, and Chastity. Written in Spenser's invented verse form, the Spenserian stanza, the poem operates as elaborate allegory, praising Queen Elizabeth I while aiming to "fashion a gentleman or noble person in virtuous and gentle discipline." Each knight faces trials, temptations, and perils in adventures filled with monsters, wizards, and enchantments.