Mirèio · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Mirèio by Frédéric Mistral.

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Chapter 1
To Lamartine
The poet dedicates his work 'Mirèio' to Lamartine, offering it as a heartfelt gift from a peasant, symbolizing his spirit and the essence of his youth.
Chapter 2
Preface to the English Edition
Harriet Waters Preston recounts the literary and historical context of Frédéric Mistral's Mirèio, detailing the Provençal Revival led by Joseph Roumanille, the formation of the felibre movement, and the cultural ambitions behind the poem. She reflects on the challenges of translation and the enduring charm of Mistral's pastoral epic.
Chapter 3
Mirèio
The opening of the poem introduces the setting of Provence and the central character Mirèio, a beautiful and virtuous farm girl, as well as the young basket-maker Vincen, whose love for her will defy social boundaries.
Chapter 4
Canto I: Lotus Farm
The poem opens with an invocation to sing the love of a Provençal maid, Mirèio. The basket-weaver Ambroi and his son Vincen arrive at Lotus Farm, the estate of Ramoun. They are welcomed and join the laborers for supper. Mirèio, Ramoun's daughter, serves the meal and later chats with Vincen about his travels and a miraculous healing at the shrine of the Three Maries. The evening ends with Vincen beginning to tell a story about a foot-race.
Chapter 5
Canto II: The Leaf-Picking
Mirèio and Vincen meet while picking mulberry leaves for silkworms. They share personal stories, and Mirèio confesses her love for Vincen, who initially resists due to their differing social stations but eventually admits his love in return. Their intimate moment is interrupted by an old woman's call, and they part.

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To Lamartine

Preface to the English Edition

Mirèio

Canto I: Lotus Farm

Canto II: The Leaf-Picking