THE CONCEPT OF CHIVALRIC IDEALS IN MEDIEVAL ROMANCE LITERATURE

Abstract

This article examines the concept of chivalric ideals in medieval romance literature, focusing on the ethical, social, and symbolic dimensions of knighthood. Through an analysis of medieval romances by Chrétien de Troyes, Geoffrey Chaucer, Sir Thomas Malory, and anonymous texts, the study explores how ideals such as honor, loyalty, bravery, religious devotion, and courtly love are constructed and negotiated. The article argues that medieval romance functions as a literary space where chivalric ideology is both affirmed and critically examined.