10.2 Character analysis and development

Troilus and Criseyde's love story is a rollercoaster of emotions. From Troilus's transformation into a devoted lover to Criseyde's cautious approach, their journey is filled with psychological complexity and societal pressures.

The characters' relationships evolve dramatically throughout the poem. Starting with love at first sight, their story progresses through courtship and consummation, ultimately ending in separation and betrayal. Medieval norms heavily influence their actions and decisions.

Character Analysis and Development

Psychological complexity of characters

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• Troilus
  • Transforms from a skeptic of love to a deeply devoted lover of Criseyde showcases his emotional journey
  • Intense emotions and desire for Criseyde drive his actions and decisions throughout the poem
  • Inner conflict between his love for Criseyde and societal expectations of masculinity and honor adds depth to his character
• Criseyde
  • Hesitancy to enter a new relationship as a widow reflects her cautious nature and vulnerability
  • Seeks security and protection in a male-dominated society reveals her pragmatic approach to relationships
  • Emotional turmoil stemming from her feelings for Troilus and fear of societal judgment highlights her complex decision-making process
• Pandarus
  • Unwavering loyalty to Troilus and belief in the power of love motivate his actions as a go-between
  • Scheming and manipulative nature in bringing Troilus and Criseyde together shows his willingness to prioritize his own agenda
  • Disregard for Troilus and Criseyde's individual concerns and well-being at times demonstrates his morally ambiguous character

Evolution of character relationships

• Initial stage
  • Troilus falls in love with Criseyde from afar showcasing the concept of "love at first sight"
  • Pandarus, upon learning of Troilus' love, offers to help him win Criseyde's affection setting the stage for his role as a go-between
• Courtship and consummation
  • Pandarus facilitates meetings and exchanges letters between Troilus and Criseyde acting as a catalyst for their relationship
  • Troilus and Criseyde express their feelings for each other and eventually consummate their love marking a significant milestone in their relationship
• Separation and betrayal
  • Criseyde is sent to the Greek camp in exchange for a Trojan prisoner creating physical distance between the lovers
  • Despite promising to return to Troilus, Criseyde falls in love with Diomede, a Greek warrior introducing a new romantic interest and complicating the plot
  • Troilus, upon learning of Criseyde's betrayal, is heartbroken leading to his eventual death in battle demonstrating the tragic consequences of their failed relationship

Medieval norms in character portrayals

• Gender roles
  • Troilus embodies the ideal medieval knight valuing honor, chivalry, and courtly love (Lancelot)
  • Criseyde is portrayed as a vulnerable widow who needs male protection reflecting the limited agency of women in medieval society (Guinevere)
• Courtly love tradition
  • The relationship between Troilus and Criseyde follows the conventions of courtly love with Troilus as the devoted lover and Criseyde as the idealized lady (Tristan and Isolde)
  • Pandarus' role as a go-between reflects the common practice of using intermediaries in courtly love relationships (Cyrano de Bergerac)
• Societal judgment and reputation
  • Criseyde's concern for her reputation and the potential consequences of her relationship with Troilus highlights the importance of maintaining a good name in medieval society
  • The characters' actions and decisions are heavily influenced by the fear of societal judgment and the need to conform to societal expectations (The Canterbury Tales)