Medieval Romance - Sanderson High School

The Defining Characteristics

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12th-15th century (1100-1400) Earlier romances in verse (poetic form) Later ones sometimes in prose (NOT poetry) Tales of courtly love and chivalric adventure

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Based on feudal ideal of chivalry Code of Chivalry: Emphasizes courage, grace, honor, love, loyalty, valor, and humility  both on and off the battlefield (high moral code)  Includes the pledging of service to a lady— honoring, revering, serving, and protecting her reputation (placing her on a pedestal—to worship from afar/on high) 

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Are imbued with adventure, love, the supernatural Feature kings, knights, damsels in distress Give a glamorous portrayal of castle life (idealized)

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Most popular medieval romances surround legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table Arthur—thought to have been a Welsh chieftain (or Celtic king) in the 5th or 6th century

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Other names from the Arthurian legends: Merlin (sorcerer & Arthur’s advisor)  Camelot  Excalibur (sword)  Guinevere (Arthur’s wife)  Lancelot (best friend and Knight of the Round Table)  Other knights include Sir Galahad, Sir Gawain, Sir Bedivere , Sir Percivale, Sir Lionell, Sir Kay, et al.  Uther Pendragon (father)  Igraine (mother)  Morgan le Fey (half-sister)  Mordred (nephew/son) 

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Arthur Mordred Sir Lucan Sir Gawain Sir Bedivere Hermit Lady of the Lake Three Queens