B-text

Definition

The b-text refers to one of the two primary versions of 'Piers Plowman', a Middle English allegorical poem by William Langland. It is considered the second and more developed version of the poem, showcasing significant thematic and structural changes compared to the earlier a-text. The b-text incorporates expanded narratives, additional characters, and a greater emphasis on social and religious critique, which reflect the complexities of 14th-century England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The b-text was written in the early 15th century and contains around 60 Passus (sections), expanding on the themes of social justice and Christian morality.
2. In the b-text, characters like Lady Holy Church and Piers Plowman are further developed, highlighting their roles in guiding souls toward salvation.
3. The b-text includes more direct criticisms of contemporary issues such as corruption in the church, social inequality, and the failure of society to uphold Christian values.
4. This version shows Langland's growth as a poet, with more sophisticated language and imagery, creating a richer reading experience.
5. The b-text also emphasizes the journey of the soul through various trials and tribulations, illustrating the quest for true understanding and divine truth.

Review Questions

• How does the b-text of 'Piers Plowman' differ in structure and theme from the a-text?
  • The b-text differs significantly from the a-text in both its structure and themes. While the a-text has a simpler narrative structure with fewer allegorical elements, the b-text is more complex, containing around 60 Passus that delve deeper into social issues. The themes also evolve; the b-text presents a stronger emphasis on social justice, religious critique, and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in 14th-century England.
• Analyze how Langland uses characters in the b-text to convey his messages about society and religion.
  • In the b-text, Langland uses characters like Lady Holy Church and Piers Plowman to embody key concepts related to societal values and religious ideals. Lady Holy Church serves as a guide for understanding faith and moral conduct, while Piers represents Christ-like qualities that advocate for justice and communal welfare. These characters highlight the flaws in contemporary society, emphasizing the need for spiritual renewal and social reform within a corrupt world.
• Evaluate the impact of the b-text's social critiques on contemporary audiences and how they resonate with modern readers.
  • The social critiques present in the b-text of 'Piers Plowman' had a profound impact on contemporary audiences who were grappling with similar issues such as corruption within the church and societal inequalities. Langland's vivid depictions of moral failings resonate with modern readers as they explore timeless themes of justice, faith, and human dignity. This relevance showcases Langland's foresight as a writer who not only addressed his immediate societal concerns but also created a work that continues to challenge readers to reflect on their own moral responsibilities in society today.

Related terms

a-text: The a-text is the first version of 'Piers Plowman', which is shorter and less polished than the b-text, offering a simpler narrative structure and fewer allegorical elements.

Allegory: A literary device where characters or events symbolize broader themes or moral lessons, widely used in 'Piers Plowman' to convey social and spiritual commentary.

Langland: William Langland is the author of 'Piers Plowman', a key figure in Middle English literature known for his innovative use of allegory and social critique in his works.