METS Proposal Requirements
The Middle English Texts Series makes available to a wide range of readers – from novices to specialists – the literature of England in all genres from the twelfth to the fifteenth century. The METS Editorial Board currently prefers critical editions in which each text is based on a single copytext, preferably a manuscript. Emendations should be silently incorporated into the text. Variant readings from other textual witnesses should be relegated to the critical apparatus. Texts in languages other than Middle English should provide a facing-page modern English translation. Diplomatic and parallel-text editions are not recommended. The proposal for a new volume should include:
- A brief CV of the proposer’s qualifications for undertaking the new volume. If there are co-editors, all should provide their credentials.
- An account of the volume’s contents. All METS editions require an introduction, the text(s) – glossed or fully translated (if the original language is not Middle English), explanatory notes, textual notes, and a bibliography. A glossary is required for Middle English texts, but not for non-English texts. If your proposal includes multiple texts, discuss the edition’s unifying principles. If your text(s)’ original language is not Middle English, be sure to include your translation philosophy. (METS prefers accuracy of meaning over replicating the meter/rhyme scheme of the original language). Indicate whether your volume will require additional material: indices, appendices, tables, images, music, etc.
- A justification for your edition. This discussion should include observations on competing editions, the gap in availability you intend to fill, the uniqueness of your edition, its proposed significance for its target audience(s), and its suitability to the METS series.
- Your base manuscript and a list of manuscript/early print witnesses to be collated in your textual notes. Justify your source text: Why is it the best text for your edition? How many witnesses exist and which will you use to supplement your textual notes?
- Estimated length of your edition, in word count.
- An estimated time table. How long do you expect this edition to take? List major steps and indicate an approximate completion date. If possible, include time spent transcribing materials at holding institutions, anticipated sabbaticals, review from external consultants, etc. NB: METS does not accept incomplete editions.
- A select bibliography of primary and major secondary sources.
Submit your proposal to Associate Editor Anna Siebach-Larsen (annasiebachlarsen@rochester.edu). The METS Advisory Board will consider your proposal based on these criteria. You may expect a response in approximately a month. Acceptance is provisional: METS retains the right to return content to the editor(s) if the work does not pass review, is egregiously late, of unacceptable quality, or fails to follow METS style.