1. Medieval Romance Literature

2. Late Medieval Period 1300-1500 the Black Plague 100 Years War THEREFORE: Growing sense of vulnerability and human weakness

3. Traits of This Literature A shift from earlier Medieval literature's emphasis on Jesus' glory--now emphasis on growing human vulnerability Setting = idealized fantasy world of glamorous adventures, opponents, and journeys Knights = heroes!

4. How to Be a Heroic Knight defend land fight supernatural beings and non- Christians save damsels in distress launch quests for precious objects Live always by the Codes of Chivalry, Courtesy, and Courtly Love Courage, strength, skill Honorable

5. The Code of Chivalry: a code of manners in war and love; a moral system governing noble life bound by honor to defend land (loyal) bound by one's word (loyal) defend Christian faith (think not "Jesus saves" so much as "Jesus kills") be a devout Christian (or die by the hands of devout Christians) seek the Holy Grail protect, but don't touch, the ladies

6. The Code of Courtly Love Noble women developed this rule system for knights: Women must be regarded as on pedestals His suffering due to his inability to have her makes him more noble Be infinitely polite with women The "queen's champion" (willingness to fight to the death against anyone who disrespects her)

7. The Code of Courtesy Fight for Jesus Be valiant on the battlefield (polite violence) Be gallant and civilized in society (clean up after the fight, before the feast)