Louise M. Haywood
In this article I examine seasonal and landscape descriptions whic head episodes ("lyrics") in the Libro de Alexandre and Kyng Alisaundre, and the Roman de toute chevalerie. I argue tah some short descriptions present in the sources perform thematic, narrative,and organizational functions. Mor elaborate lyrics in Kyng Alisaunder and the Libro de Alexandre are found to have a similar range of functions. The practice of using descriptive material with thematic or organizational effect is commented upon by glossators of the Alexandreis, and is a recommended compositional practice. Conseguently seasonal lyrics should not be dismissed as simply commonplace but should be recognized as part of the creative process of the poet's ordinatio et dispositio of his material, and thus be subjet to analysis.