The Literature of Love Context: Courtly Love - 12th + 13th C (Middle Ages)

Question 1

Courtly love was a medieval European literary conception of love that emphasised

Answer 1

Nobility and chivalry

Question 2

Courtly love traditions were satirised by writers such as

Answer 2

Chaucer who mocked the overly-sentimental nature of the devoted male suitor

Question 3

The stages of love according to courtly love tradition

Answer 3

1. Attraction to the lady, usually via sight
2. Worship of the lady from afar
3. Declaration of passionate devotion
4. Virtuous rejection by the lady (coyness)
5. Moans of approaching death from unsatisfied desire and other physical manifestations of lovesickness
6. Heroic deeds of valour which win the lady’s heart
7. Endless adventures conducted in secrecy