The Defining Characteristics

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

  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)

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

  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 5 th or 6 th century

 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)

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