Alissa DeParto

Web Site Evaluation

The following analysis is based upon a website entitled Anthology of Middle English Literature (1350-1485) located at http://www.luminarium.org/medlit/. The site contains a compilation of medieval works, both primary and secondary in nature. Although the website only presents texts from Middle English, the information is sufficient and extensive. In addition to the actual texts, the site also provides additional sources to assist in gaining background and other factual documents on specific elements of the medieval period. By accessing different links, a variety of information on Middle English text [rework=>is obtainable as well as a widespread history] on each period.

The website is maintained by Anniina Jokinen, a graduate of Temple University with a B.A. in English. The site originates in 1996 under the name “Luminarium,” which is a non-profit organization with no educational affiliations. Even though the site is not accredited, the creator validates that the information on the site is accurate [How/where is this done?]. The purpose of the site is to provide primarily students and persons of interest with a well-documented collection of credible sources on medieval literature. From a student’s perspective, the site contains valuable information from the Internet and eliminates the unnecessary and unreliable sources.

The site principally encompasses links to various other websites. These sites include primary text of many of the celebrated works of Middle English prose[Just prose?]. The full text versions provide complete documents in full as well as notes, outlines, and essays depending on the subject. The home page of the site gives names of major authors like Chaucer, Sir Gawain, Sir Thomas Malory, etc. and also has links to medieval plays and lyrics. For each author or topic, the supplementary links are presented in an [?organizational format]. Upon clicking one of the links, the viewer is directed to a page containing categories like the life, works, and additional resources of the subject.

Of particular interest to a visitor of the site are the art and music of the time period, which are presented along with the material. This helps enhance the intent of the site, while entertaining the audience to which it pertains. However, even with the pictures and sound effects, the site is easily accessible and downloads quickly. Overall, the site appears to be free from error and well updated. The last update is posted as January 7, 2002. [dangles=>As a student studying medieval literature, the website] proves to be a trustworthy resource that a person can rely on as a guide through the complicated texts of the Middle English period. It indeed will be helpful in assisting students through the rest of the class.