Medieval values

Definition

Medieval values refer to the beliefs, moral principles, and social norms that were prominent during the Middle Ages, influencing aspects of life such as politics, religion, and personal conduct. These values emphasized concepts like chivalry, loyalty, honor, piety, and the importance of community, all of which shaped the narratives and characters in medieval literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Medieval values were deeply intertwined with the Christian faith, influencing moral decisions and societal expectations.
2. Chivalry was not just about martial prowess; it also included duties toward the weak and a commitment to uphold justice.
3. The concept of honor was paramount in medieval society, often dictating personal relationships and conflicts among nobles.
4. Community was vital in the medieval period; loyalty to one’s lord and kin was expected and seen as a mark of character.
5. Medieval literature often reflects these values through character motivations and conflicts, highlighting their importance in shaping personal destinies.

Review Questions

• How do medieval values shape the character dynamics in Sir Orfeo?
  • In Sir Orfeo, medieval values such as loyalty and chivalry are central to the characters' interactions. The protagonist Orfeo embodies the ideal of a devoted husband who demonstrates unwavering loyalty to his wife, Heurodis. This commitment not only drives his actions throughout the narrative but also highlights how personal honor and duty are paramount in medieval society.
• Analyze the role of courtly love within the context of medieval values as seen in Sir Orfeo.
  • Courtly love plays a significant role in Sir Orfeo by illustrating the tension between romantic ideals and societal expectations. While Orfeo's love for Heurodis is genuine and deep, the narrative explores how their love is affected by external forces like fate and divine intervention. This interplay reveals how even noble intentions can be challenged within the framework of medieval values.
• Evaluate how the themes of loyalty and community in Sir Orfeo reflect broader medieval values and their implications for individual agency.
  • In Sir Orfeo, loyalty to loved ones and the sense of community underscore much of the narrative's tension. The story highlights that while individual desires exist, they are often secondary to communal obligations and loyalties. This reflects broader medieval values that prioritized collective identity over personal ambition, demonstrating how characters navigate their fates within these constraints while still striving for individual agency.

Related terms

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

Feudalism: The dominant social system in medieval Europe, characterized by the relationship between lords, vassals, and serfs based on land ownership and obligations.

Courtly Love: A medieval European literary conception of love that emphasized nobility and chivalry, often depicting romantic ideals that were unattainable or secret.