Dorigen's Vow

Definition

Dorigen's Vow refers to a promise made by Dorigen, a character in 'The Franklin's Tale,' to her husband Arveragus that she would remain faithful to him as long as he did not face any perilous challenges. This vow becomes a pivotal point in the story, highlighting themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of human desires and choices. The circumstances surrounding her vow showcase the tension between personal agency and societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dorigen's Vow is significant as it sets the stage for the central conflict of the tale, where her loyalty is tested against Aurelius's advances.
2. The vow symbolizes the constraints placed on women in medieval society, as Dorigen grapples with her feelings while trying to honor her commitment.
3. Arveragus’s response to Dorigen’s vow reflects his noble character, as he prioritizes her happiness over his own desires.
4. The resolution of Dorigen’s Vow raises questions about the nature of true love and sacrifice, leading to an unexpected conclusion.
5. The tale ultimately explores the theme of fate versus free will through Dorigen's choices regarding her vow and her relationships.

Review Questions

• How does Dorigen's Vow reflect the themes of love and loyalty in 'The Franklin's Tale'?
  • Dorigen's Vow embodies the themes of love and loyalty by illustrating the tension between personal desire and marital fidelity. Her commitment to Arveragus showcases her deep affection for him, yet it also places her in a challenging position when faced with Aurelius's pursuit. The vow ultimately highlights how love can both empower individuals to remain loyal while also complicating their emotional landscapes when faced with temptation.
• Discuss how Dorigen’s Vow interacts with the ideals of chivalry as portrayed in the tale.
  • Dorigen’s Vow interacts closely with chivalric ideals by emphasizing respect for women and their agency. Arveragus exemplifies chivalric values through his honorable reaction to Dorigen's struggle, showing that true knightly behavior involves allowing his wife to navigate her own feelings. The tale critiques traditional notions of chivalry by illustrating that even noble intentions can lead to complex emotional dilemmas, prompting readers to reconsider what true honor means.
• Evaluate the impact of Dorigen's Vow on the story’s resolution and its commentary on fate versus free will.
  • The impact of Dorigen’s Vow on the story’s resolution is profound, as it serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama between love, desire, and moral integrity. By making this vow, Dorigen invites both fate and free will into her life—her choices lead her to navigate conflicts that challenge her loyalties. Ultimately, the resolution suggests that while individuals may strive for autonomy in their decisions, they are also bound by social expectations and personal commitments that shape their fates.

Related terms

Arveragus: Dorigen's husband in 'The Franklin's Tale,' who embodies the ideals of chivalry and respect for his wife's autonomy.

Aurelius: A young squire who falls in love with Dorigen and represents the conflict between romantic desire and ethical dilemmas.

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