58 pages • 1 hour read
Yvain, or the Knight With the Lion
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Book Brief
Yvain, or the Knight With the Lion
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1176224
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Arthurian Britain • Medieval
1176
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Yvain, a knight of King Arthur, embarks on a series of heroic quests to earn the love of Lady Laudine, overcoming numerous challenges including defeating Esclados, rescuing a lion, and redeeming himself after breaking a promise to return to Laudine within a year. With the help of Lunete, he ultimately reconciles with Laudine, showcasing the knightly code of chivalry and romance. Some scenes involve violence and combat-related injuries.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Romantic
Mysterious
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
5,303 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Chrétien De Troyes' Yvain, or the Knight With the Lion is lauded for its rich narrative and complex character development. Positive reviews highlight its engaging blend of romance, adventure, and chivalric ideals. However, some critics note the text's archaic language may challenge modern readers. Overall, it remains a celebrated medieval romance captivating to both scholars and enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Yvain, or the Knight With the Lion?
A reader who enjoys Yvain, or the Knight With the Lion by Chrétien De Troyes is likely captivated by Arthurian legends, chivalric romance, and medieval literature. Fans of Le Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory, The Once and Future King by T.H. White, and J.R.R. Tolkien's works will find this tale enticing.
5,303 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Laudine, the Lady of the Fountain
Laudine, the Lady of the Fountain
The widow of Esclados and a lady of Landuc Castle, she is caught in conflicting emotions following her husband's death but finds herself connected to Yvain.
Lunete, the Chambermaid
Lunete, the Chambermaid
Laudine’s clever and loyal lady in waiting who plays a crucial role in helping bring Yvain and Laudine together.
King Arthur
King Arthur
The legendary king leading the Knights of the Round Table, who makes key decisions that influence the unfolding of Yvain’s story.
Gawain
Gawain
A beloved and honorable knight, nephew to King Arthur, who unwittingly draws Yvain into a position to make critical decisions.
The Lion
The Lion
A loyal animal companion to Yvain, whom he saves from a dragon, symbolizing mutual loyalty and aiding him in battles.
Kay
Kay
A knight known for his sharp wit and penchant for ridiculing others, serving as a foil to Yvain and experiencing a downfall in the story.
Harpin of the Mountain
Harpin of the Mountain
A giant who terrorizes a castle, providing Yvain the opportunity to demonstrate heroism by defending the baron's family.
224
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Arthurian Britain • Medieval
1176
Adult
18+ years
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