Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Romances explained
This chapter traces the origins and development of medieval romances, explaining how the fabulous chronicles of Arthur and Charlemagne were translated from Latin and local dialects into the more widely understood Norman French, becoming the
What happens
This chapter traces the origins and development of medieval romances, explaining how the fabulous chronicles of Arthur and Charlemagne were translated from Latin and local dialects into the more widely understood Norman French, becoming the foundation of a new literary genre. It discusses the role of troubadours and trouveurs, the division of the French language into langue d'oc and langue d'oïl, and how the heroic exploits of Arthur and Charlemagne were embellished over time to inspire chivalric ideals.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
The chapter describes how Arthur and Charlemagne were celebrated as heroes whose exploits against infidels and enemies of religion were magnified to inspire chivalric emulation.
Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter details the translation of Latin chronicles into Norman French and the role of troubadours and trouveurs in spreading these stories across Europe.
Characters to notice
- King Arthur
Selected as one of the two primary heroes of romance; his exploits were exaggerated from a Welsh prince into a conqueror of Europe.
- Charlemagne
Selected as the other primary hero of romance; his holy wars against the Saracens became a favorite topic for fiction.
- Aeneas
Mentioned as a Trojan hero from whom Arthur and Charlemagne were spuriously genealogically descended.
- Hector
Mentioned as a Trojan hero from whom Arthur and Charlemagne were spuriously genealogically descended.
Key passages
“These fabulous chronicles were for a while imprisoned in languages of local only or of professional access.”
For a time, these legendary histories were only available in languages that were either regional or limited to scholars.
Highlights the initial limited accessibility of the Arthurian and Carolingian legends before translation.
“Arthur and Charlemagne were the two heroes selected for this purpose.”
Arthur and Charlemagne were chosen as the central figures to embody the ideals of chivalry and piety.
Explains the deliberate selection of these two monarchs as archetypes for romance literature.