University:
College
Course:
College Literature
Academic year:

2023
Views:

76

Pages:

1
Author:

Daphne Silva

Medieval Literature1. Old English Literature:Beowulf: This epic poem is the most famous work from this period. It tells thestory of the heroic warrior Beowulf who battles monsters and dragons. The poemexplores themes of heroism, fate, and the struggles of life and death.2. Middle English Literature:The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer: Written in Middle English, thiscollection of stories follows a group of pilgrims on their journey to CanterburyCathedral. Each pilgrim tells a tale, offering a vivid portrayal of medievalsociety, its vices, virtues, and diverse characters.Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A chivalric romance poem that centers onthe knight Sir Gawain's quest to confront a mysterious Green Knight. The poemexamines themes of honor, temptation, and the ideals of knighthood.3. Mystical and Religious Literature:The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri: Although Italian, this work hassignificant influence in medieval literature. It's an epic poem divided into threeparts-Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso-depicting the journey of the soulthrough the afterlife.The Book of Margery Kempe: An autobiographical account of MargeryKempe's religious experiences, detailing her mystical encounters, pilgrimages,and devotion to God.4. Arthurian Legends:Le Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory: Although written in the latemedieval period, this compilation of Arthurian legends is a cornerstone ofmedieval literature. It chronicles the tales of King Arthur, his knights, and thesearch for the Holy Grail.5. Courtly Love and Romance:Medieval literature often depicted courtly love, a refined and idealized form oflove between a knight and a lady. Poems like "The Song of Roland" and "Lanval"reflect the conventions and aspirations of courtly romance.6. Allegorical Literature:Piers Plowman by William Langland: An allegorical poem that explores thenarrator's spiritual journey through dream visions. It engages with social andreligious issues of the time.