ENGL 10A: Literatures in English to 1700
Prof. Roe
Question: Analyze the role of women in medieval romances, with a focus on
characters like Guinevere and Morgan le Fay in Arthurian legends.
Response: Women in medieval romances, particularly in Arthurian legends, often
occupy complex roles. Guinevere is typically portrayed as the queen and wife of
King Arthur, contributing to the themes of chivalry and courtly love. Conversely,
characters like Morgan le Fay are presented with a more ambiguous nature,
blending elements of magic and intrigue. The tension between these
representations reflects the broader societal views on women during the medieval
period.
Question: Explore the concept of courtly love in medieval literature, using
examples from various works to illustrate the ideals and challenges
associated with this theme.
Response: Courtly love, a prevalent theme in medieval literature, is characterized
by romanticized and idealized relationships. In "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight,"
the noble Sir Gawain's encounters with Lady Bertilak demonstrate the ideals of
courtly love, emphasizing courtesy, admiration, and the quest for honor. However,
these ideals are often challenged, adding complexity to the portrayal of courtly
love in medieval texts.
