Overview
This lecture covers the concept of courtly love in medieval romance, its relationship with marriage, chivalry, and its portrayal in Arthurian legends.
Courtly Love in Medieval Romance
- Courtly love was a romantic system practiced during the Middle Ages, separate from marriage.
- Marriages in medieval times were typically arranged for political or economic reasons, not love.
- Courtly love did not involve sexual contact and was entirely outside of marriage.
- Lovers in courtly love relationships shared affection, conversation, dancing, and emotional intimacy, but not sex.
- Sexual acts between courtly lovers were forbidden, though not always adhered to.
- Courtly love allowed nobles to experience romance apart from their marital duties.
Chivalry and Social Structure
- Courtly love was closely linked to chivalry, a medieval knightly code of conduct.
- Chivalry required knights to be generous, brave, pious, and honest.
- The modern idea of chivalry as courtesy toward women comes from how knights treated noble ladies.
- Courtly love often involved a noble lady and a knight, exemplifying these ideals.
Medieval Romance Literature & Arthurian Legend
- Medieval romances were tales of adventure, noble love, chivalry, and heroism.
- Stories like those of King Arthur, Merlin, and the Knights of the Round Table reflected medieval ideals, not historical reality.
- Lady Guinevere and Sir Lancelot are famous examples of courtly love in literature.
- The real King Arthur was a British leader called Artorius, not a medieval king.
- Around 1135, a monk recorded legendary histories of Arthur, which inspired future Arthurian legends.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Courtly Love — Medieval practice of romantic, non-marital affection often without sexual contact.
- Chivalry — The knightly code of conduct emphasizing bravery, generosity, piety, and honesty.
- Medieval Romance — Stories focused on adventure, love, chivalry, and heroic deeds.
- Arthurian Legend — Tales about King Arthur and his knights, based on legend rather than historical fact.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the Arthurian legends and their connection to courtly love.
- Read examples of medieval romance literature for further understanding.