Lanval

Lanval is an extremely generous man. He gave lavishly to the other knights, freed prisoners, and gave expensive gifts and clothes. He was not selfish with his belongings. This characteristic affirms the qualities of most people in the time period. The Middle Ages was known as the "age of chivalry." Most people were giving and willing to help those in need. A second dominate characteristic of Lanval's personality is his honesty. This quality is seen most clearly when the beautiful women enter the court. Lanval could have easily stated that one of them was his beloved, but instead he was completely honest each time. This feature also affirms the character of most people of the era. Honesty goes hand in hand with the chivalry that was popular. A dishonest person was considered to have less valor and worth. Finally, Lanval is a strongly devoted person. He refuses to love the queen out of devotion to his king and his beloved. This devotion also affirms the common characteristics of the time period. A successful knight was always devoted and loyal to his master or king. Overall, Lanval represents the characteristics that were common for knights at this time.

Lanval's salvation coming from a woman is significant because women were not viewed as having the power to save men. Men were the stronger, more dominate gender. On the other hand, women were considered weak and emotional. For Lanval's fate to rest in the hands of a woman is unprecedented. This is ultimately a feminist piece. The women, with the exception of the lying and overly emotional queen, are portrayed in a positive light. Lanval's beloved is depicted as a forgiving and understanding woman. The stereotype of this time period would have been for the scorned woman to be so overly angry and upset that she does not help the man. However, the beautiful woman in this work saves Lanval from his fate: death.