Rebellion, Feud and Crusade in Medieval Texts (Term 1)

This module examines the chansons de geste, action-packed Carolingian epic poems, as well as an Arthurian romance about the troubled succession to the Greek imperial throne, and a beast epic about the unending feud between a wolf and a fox who also rebels against the lion, his king. These texts date to the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, when kings of France and England attempted to impose their powers over the entire kingdom, sparking revolts by regional barons proud of their independence. The barons were often engaged in bitter feuds with other lineages, and across Christian Europe, the rule of law was tenuous. The crusades, which aimed to recapture the Holy Land, turned this violence out into the Mediterranean of Greeks and Saracens. The texts portray this medieval world, subject to irrational, destructive impulses, and display changing ideas about community, kingship, hierarchy and the various political, religious and social roles of war.

The module will appeal to anyone interested in the history of France and ideas of Frenchness; in notions of heroism, resistance and freedom; or in the medieval origins of modern political concepts and structures. It could provide a follow-on for students who took the Sex, Gender & Identity module or those who enjoyed the Chanson de Roland on the Invention of France module. However, no prior knowledge of medieval literature or language is needed.

Students are encouraged to reflect upon the relation between literature, politics and history. Are these texts rooted in social realities, or are they a form of fantasy and escapism? Can literature offer solutions, or only depict problems? Do these texts idealize or condemn violence? Do they promote individual heroism and freedom, or hierarchy and subjection? What ideals of kingship do they contain? Should a king be a strong, quasi-tyrannical figure, or a benign and merciful sovereign? What image of community do the texts mediate, and how inclusive is that community? Is there space only for warrior Christian males? What role is there for women, Saracens and religious figures?

Texts likely to be studied:

The following editions contain both the original Old French text and a facing-page translation into modern French. Be sure to buy only the editions stated.

• Raoul de Cambrai, ed. Sarah Kay (Livre de Poche, Lettres gothiques, 1996)
• Huon de Bordeaux, ed. William Kibler and François Suard (Champion Classiques Moyen Âge, 2003)
• Chrétien de Troyes, Cligés, ed. Charles Méla (Livre de Poche, Lettres gothiques, 1994)
• Le Roman de Renart, ed. Gabriel Bianciotto (Livre de Poche, Lettres gothiques, 2005)

Coordinator:  Professor Luke Sunderland

Further details of pre-requisites, co-requisites, aims, contact hours and assessment.