A study of ancient Rome as a prominent topic in the works of Middle English poets. Discusses how each these poets conceives of ancient Rome and Romans, both pagan and Christian, and why it matters to their work. Includes the works of Gower, Chaucer, Langland, and Lydgate.

C. David Benson is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of English and Medieval Studies at the University of Connecticut. He is the author of Public Piers Plowman: Modern Scholarship and Late Medieval English Culture, also published by Penn State University Press.