Assignment on Marie de France, "Lanval"

When we turn from Geoffrey of Monmouth or "Culhwch and Olwen" to the Lais of Marie de France we enter a very different cultural universe.

"Lanval", the most "Arthurian" of Marie's Lais is also the shortest. Read it carefully and slowly, preferably at least twice. Pay close attention to details.

Writing Assignment: Consider -- think about -- the following:

• the portrayal of Arthur and Guinevere. Note the differences between Marie's portrayal of them and the way they appear in earlier works we have read.
• Consider Lanval. Consider the Maiden. Think about their love.
• Think about the structure of the story -- its various parts.

Write 300 words, or a bit more, on at least two of these matters. You may quote, but the quotations do not count towards your 300 word total.

Email to me and to your group.