Module 3



Module 3

Introduction

The Medieval Period saw many of its finest literary works influenced by events of the day. A new order is in place as the Normans conquer and bring feudalism along with them and Christianity has established a firm hold. Yet the supernatural still mystifies readers through the French influenced romances. The oral ballads also add to the literary tapestry we find in this age.

Discussion

As Christianity begins uniting much of Europe in thought, the overwhelming presence of an impersonal fate is absent from the period`s literature. We now see a new code of conduct coming into play. This high ideal for the heroes of the time, now knights, is perhaps equally brutal on the battle field as those previous, but a new refinement has come to be expected. Consider an excerpt of Chaucer`s Prologue as he gives a description of perhaps an ideal knight (Bentley & Ziegler, 2006),

There was a Knight, a most distinguished man, Who from the day on which he first began, To ride abroad had followed chivalry, Truth, honor, generousness and courtesy ... And though so much distinguished, he was wise, And in his bearing modest as a maid, He never yet a boorish thing had said In all his life to any, come what might: He was a true, a perfect gentle-knight` (lines 43 - 68)

This ideal code of conduct would no doubt be impossible to attain, and thus truly heroic if a character could maintain such a spotless life. The refinement required of such men is in striking contrast to the types of battles they would have to participate in. Consider the battle between King Arthur, perhaps the most famous character from the Medieval period, and Sir Mordrid, a truly bloody and heated battle,

And never since was there never seen a more dolefuller battle in no Christian land, for there was but ...