Guy of Warwick: Analysis of Major Characters
"Guy of Warwick" is a legendary tale centered on the character of Guy, a noble knight from Warwick, who embarks on a quest to prove himself as the greatest knight in the world in order to win the hand of his beloved, Felice la Belle, the daughter of Rohaud, the Earl of Warwick. The narrative explores themes of love, honor, and the moral dilemmas faced by a knight. Guy's journey is marked by numerous adventures, where he encounters and defeats several notable figures, including Otous, the Duke of Pavia, and Colbrand, a formidable Danish giant.
Felice's demand for Guy to ascend to knightly greatness serves as the catalyst for his many exploits, but his eventual marriage brings about a profound sense of guilt regarding the violence he has inflicted to achieve his goals. Alongside Guy are key characters such as Herhaud of Ardern, his mentor, and Tirri, a loyal friend, who aid him in his quests. The story also introduces a variety of antagonists and allies, including Reignier, the emperor of Germany, and Morgadour, a treacherous knight. Ultimately, Guy's narrative culminates in a journey of redemption as he chooses to become a penitent pilgrim, highlighting the complexities of knighthood and the consequences of his choices. This tale reflects the chivalric ideals of the medieval period while also probing the ethical implications of personal ambition and romantic desire.
Guy of Warwick: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Unknown
Genre: Poetry
Locale: England, Europe, and the Middle East
Plot: Romance
Time: Tenth century
Guy, a knight of Warwick. He is the son of the steward of Rohaud, the Earl of Warwick, and principal cupbearer to the earl. Guy falls in love with his master's daughter, Felice la Belle. To satisfy his lady's demand that he become the foremost knight in the world, he enters into adventures that bring about the deaths of many brave knights. He marries Felice only to become beset with qualms of conscience over the mischief he has caused to satisfy a lady's whims. He ends his life as a penitent pilgrim.
Rohaud, the Earl of Warwick, Guy of Warwick's master, and the father of Felice la Belle.
Felice la Belle, the daughter of Rohaud. Loved by Guy of Warwick, she demands, as the price of her hand, that he become the greatest knight in the world.
Herhaud of Ardern, Guy of Warwick's mentor and companion in knight-errantry.
Otous, the Duke of Pavia, who is defeated by Guy of Warwick.
Segyn, the Duke of Louvain, who is assisted in battle by Guy of Warwick.
Reignier, the emperor of Germany. In an unlawful attempt to take the lands of Segyn, he is captured by Guy of Warwick, who brings about a rapprochement between the enemies.
Ernis, the emperor of Greece, who is assisted by Guy of Warwick against the Soudan of the Saracens.
Loret, Ernis' daughter, promised to Guy of Warwick for his services in battle.
Morgadour, a knight enamored of Loret. He is a traitor to Guy of Warwick.
Tirri, a knight and friend of Guy of Warwick. He is rescued by Guy from his persecutor, Otous.
Athelstan, the king of England.
Anlaf, the king of Denmark.
Colbrand, a Danish giant slain by Guy of Warwick.