Cligès: Analysis of Major Characters
"Cligès: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate relationships and motivations of the primary figures in the narrative. Central to the story is Alexander, a Greek prince who aspires to knighthood in King Arthur's court and becomes the father of Cligès after marrying Soredamors. Cligès, in turn, fulfills his father's dream of being knighted by Arthur, while navigating a complex romance with Fenice, who is married to Alis. This relationship leads to a clever deception that culminates in Cligès and Fenice ascending to the throne of Greece following Alis's death.
Soredamors, Cligès's mother and a member of Arthur's family, adds depth to the familial connections in the narrative. Fenice's character is pivotal, as her affair with Cligès not only drives the plot but also involves the sorceress Thessala, whose magic aids in their deception. Alis, Cligès's uncle, becomes an unwitting participant in the lovers' scheme, showcasing themes of loyalty and betrayal. Other characters, such as the knights of the Round Table and various suitors, enrich the story, presenting a tapestry of chivalry, love, and ambition within the Arthurian legend. This analysis reveals the complexities of character dynamics that shape the narrative's progression and themes.
Cligès: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Chrétien de Troyes
First published: Cligès: Ou, La Fausse morte, c. 1164 (English translation, 1912)
Genre: Poetry
Locale: England, Brittany, Germany, and Constantinople
Plot: Romance
Time: Sixth century
Alexander, a Prince of Greece. Ardently desiring knighthood in King Arthur's court, he goes to Britain. After performing many brave deeds in Arthur's service, he is knighted by the king. He marries Soredamors, and they become the parents of Cligès.
Cligès, the son of Alexander and Soredamors. He fulfills his father's wish that he be knighted by King Arthur. In love with Fenice, he engages, with her, in an elaborate scheme to deceive her husband, Alis. On Alis' death, the lovers succeed, as husband and wife, to the throne of Greece.
Soredamors, Alexander's wife and the mother of Cligès. She is the sister of Sir Gawain and the niece of King Arthur.
Fenice, Alis' wife. With her lover Cligès, she deceives her husband. On Alis' death, she marries Cligès and becomes empress of Greece.
Alis, Alexander's brother and the regent for Cligès. He breaks his vow never to marry, weds Fenice, and is deceived by her and her lover Cligès, who assumes the throne on his uncle's death.
Thessala, a sorceress whose potions assist Fenice in deceiving her husband.
John, a stonecutter who provides a trysting place for the lovers Cligès and Fenice.
Arthur, the king of Britain.
Guinevere, King Arthur's queen.
Sir Gawain, a knight of the Round Table and Cligès' uncle.
Count Angreè, a traitor to King Arthur.
Sagremore, Lancelot of the Lake, and Perceval of Wales, knights of the Round Table who are defeated in tournaments by Cligès.
The Duke of Saxony, a contender for the hand of Fenice.