A review by odd_biscuit
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, and Sir Orfeo by Christopher Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien, Unknown

3.0

I find Pearl a bit of a slog, by it's very nature. Gawain and The Green Knight is great, except it's narrative is broken for modern readers by bafflingly long digressions to describe hunting scenes and the dressing of the dead animals. This is fascinating, though, for those who want a detailed picture of how those activities were done in the 14th century. Detailed descriptions of armour and clothing herein are rewarding for the same reason.

Tolkien's own Sir Orfeo is delightful; a retelling of Orpheus in the Underworld in a medieval setting. For pure storytelling enjoyment, it's the easiest read in this volume by far, with clear language and engaging rhythm.