Middle English Lyrics are characterized by their brevity and intensity of expression. They were composed by men and women from both sacred and secular backgrounds and survive in numerous manuscript sources. This collection brings together works that examine and celebrate themes of personal faith and devotion, the mystery of God’s love and the hope of redemption, the harsh realities of daily life and personal piety. The poetry opens a window into the subtle and thoughtful world of Middle English literature, in which the impact of faith on daily life is presented with an immediacy and veracity that is deeply appealing.