1. The Defining Characteristics

2.  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

3.  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)

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

5.  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

6.  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)

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