Knight's Tale

Definition

The Knight's Tale is a narrative from Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales,' which tells the story of two knights, Palamon and Arcite, who are in love with the same woman, Emelye. This tale explores themes of chivalry, love, and the nature of fate, while also reflecting the ideals of knighthood and courtly love prevalent in medieval society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Knight's Tale is notable for being one of the first literary works to depict a tournament as a central event, showcasing the ideals of knightly combat.
2. Palamon and Arcite are cousins who are imprisoned and fall in love with Emelye at first sight, leading to their rivalry.
3. The tale features a significant emphasis on the role of fate and destiny, particularly through the character of Theseus, who represents the law and order of society.
4. Chaucer uses rich imagery and allegory to convey the complexities of love and rivalry between Palamon and Arcite throughout the narrative.
5. Ultimately, the Knight's Tale ends with a resolution that highlights themes of honor and sacrifice, as well as the unpredictability of life.

Review Questions

• How do the themes of chivalry and courtly love manifest in the relationships between Palamon, Arcite, and Emelye?
  • In the Knight's Tale, chivalry is embodied by both Palamon and Arcite as they uphold the noble qualities expected of knights while competing for Emelye’s affection. Their rivalry exemplifies courtly love, where both knights are willing to risk their lives for her. The tale explores how their love for Emelye drives them to acts of valor but also leads to conflict and emotional turmoil, revealing the complexities of such ideals.
• Analyze how Chaucer uses the character of Theseus to symbolize order in contrast to Palamon and Arcite's chaotic rivalry.
  • Chaucer presents Theseus as a figure of authority and justice, representing societal order amidst Palamon and Arcite’s tumultuous competition for Emelye. Theseus intervenes when their rivalry escalates into conflict, arranging a tournament to settle their dispute fairly. This structure emphasizes the importance of law over personal desire, highlighting how individual passions can disrupt social harmony unless controlled by reasoned leadership.
• Evaluate the role of fate in determining the outcomes for Palamon and Arcite within the Knight's Tale, considering its implications on free will.
  • Fate plays a crucial role in shaping the destinies of Palamon and Arcite, suggesting that despite their noble efforts and desires, their ultimate outcomes are beyond their control. Through various omens and Theseus's decrees, Chaucer illustrates that both knights' lives are influenced by forces larger than themselves. This tension between fate and free will raises questions about whether true agency exists within a predestined framework, prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs regarding destiny.

Related terms

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with the medieval institution of knighthood, emphasizing virtues like bravery, honor, and respect for women.

Courtly Love: A literary tradition that idealizes romantic love, often involving a knight's devotion to a noble lady who is typically unattainable.

Fate: The concept that events are predetermined and inevitable, often playing a significant role in the lives of characters in literature, including those in the Knight's Tale.