Introduction
Chrétien de Troyes’ The Knight of Lion is an Arthurian tale about the heroic exploits of a gallant knight named Yvain. In several Arthurian stories, chivalry plays an important role in propelling the plot forward and providing context for the knights’ and the court’s organizational structures. Yvain’s actions and experiences are expected to revolve around such events. Accordingly, this essay’s main goal is to examine Yvain as a character and how this shapes the events in the story.
Discussion
Regardless of who their real-life historical equivalents were, the knights of Arthur and Chrétien serve as shining examples of morality. As a knight, Yvain displays the key feature of civility, defined as a series of thoughts, actions, and characteristics related to courtly manners. In this example, courtesy refers to both “correct” manners and chivalric habits overall. In a similar view, Yvain embodies qualities of courteousness in abundance. He is noble, respectful, and humble. In the first part, the reader learns about his courtly and sensible demeanor from Queen Guinevere and his cousin Calogarant.
Sir Kay, on the other hand, may be seen as the opposite of politeness. Kay is a bully who is nasty, argumentative, and irresponsible. When Yvain remarks on Calogarant’s loss and volunteers to march for him to redeem his dignity, Kay reacts violently, insulting Yvain’s plan and cynically questioning him if other members of the court should join him. Yvain responds to these attacks thoughtfully, displaying courtesy expected of a knight:
“…Indeed, my lady, I pay no attention to his insults…I have no desire to quarrel or start anything ridiculous, for it is not the one who strikes first that initiates the fight but the man who strikes back. I’m not going to act like the mastiff that growls and scowls when another dog displays its teeth….” (Staines, 1991)
Yvain’s remark is full of nuanced undertones that show off his politeness, as well as his intelligence. Yvain tries to avert confrontation by showing moral superiority via his passivity. In this way, he honors the court and his dignity by not arguing with a fellow knight. All through romance, his voice and tone are polite and well-mannered. Instead of bragging about his abilities or military prowess, Yvain is modest. Instead, others’ comments proclaim his notoriety, which is how a knight should behave.
The appropriate handling of women is a crucial part of civility. Yvain’s acts are remarkable in this respect. Apart from Laudine, whose rage functions as the story’s main dramatic conflict, all ladies who encounter Yvain continuously compliment him. This feature is highlighted in two separate occurrences involving encounters with Laudine and the Younger Sister. Lunette is revealed to the reader for the first time when Yvain is in grave danger. Due to a rash decision and disregard for his safety, the knight finds himself stuck between two gates, wondering where his adversary is, when a beautiful lady arrives. His arrival surprises her, and she makes it clear he is unwelcome. Though he has struck the Fountain Knight a death blow, the occupants of the palace will go on the hunt for the person who killed their master.
Accordingly, Yvain’s reaction, representative of his humility, is as follows: “If God wills, they will never murder me or capture me” (Staines, 1991). This meek entrustment of his fate to the supernatural endows him with a boldness that endears him to fans of Arthurian tales. He is conscious of his skills, and while he thinks that God may intercede personally, he operates independently throughout his struggles, humbly acting as a vessel for righteousness. This modesty persists all through the story, allowing Yvain to operate with absolute certainty.
Yvain’s interaction with the Younger Sister, which inevitably results in combat with Gawain, is another illustration of him acting cordially. Instead of being the pinnacle of valor, Gawain is shown to be inept in Chrétien. The audience and the protagonists are both aware of the injustice of the situation of the Elder Sister in the story. On the other hand, Gawain makes an impulsive pledge to support her in anything she decides to do. Yvain, on the other hand, has earned a reputation as someone who pays attention to details and treats others with respect. Even though everything works out in the end, and he earns admiration and respect from the Sun of Chivalry, it is essential to bear in mind the events surrounding Yvain receiving the plea. A sequence of spiritual omens leads the lady to Yvain, who pledges to do everything possible to help her. In a typical show of politeness, he informs her that:
“Idleness does not build a reputation, so I will not only act, but I will gladly follow you wherever you go, my sweet friend. And if the person you are trying to help desperately needs my assistance, do not give up hope. I will do anything for her that is within my power. Now, may God grant me the strength and grace to stand up for her rights with His help…” (Staines, 1991).
Conclusion
Courtesies like those discussed above exemplify the chivalric lifestyle. Even though Yvain is accused of betraying his lady and consequently “falls” in the ranks of the knight archetype, audiences must remember that despite Yvain’s mistake in betraying his promise to Laudine, he is still responsible for the consequences that resulted. Thus, the knight with the Lion persona is not just a facade for him. To reclaim Laudine’s affection, Yvain must first demonstrate himself befitting – which he does after the story concludes. Indeed, this concept of self-redemption is subtly embedded into Yvain’s personality, characterized by righteous deeds.
Bibliography
Staines, David. 1991. The Complete Romances of Chrétien De Troyes. Bloomington: Indiana University Press. Web.