Chivalric Novels: Tirant lo Blanc & Ausias March
Chivalric Novels: From Medieval France to Valencia
The Origins of Chivalric Literature
The early novels of knights appeared in France during the second half of the twelfth century and found a loyal and enthusiastic readership. These works are based on legends that emerged in the Plantagenet court.
Their protagonists are virtuous knights, such as King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. In search of adventure, and driven by love for a lady, they venture into hostile lands and must overcome extraordinary challenges.
Love, often influenced by magic, is a constant theme in these novels.
Chivalric Novels in the 15th Century
Chivalric novels, with different forms and styles, enjoyed great popularity from the 12th to the 15th century. The 15th century saw a shift towards realism, reflecting the actual world of knights of the era. Characters became more humanized and believable, set within more historically accurate environments.
Tirant lo Blanc
The novel Tirant lo Blanc, written by Joanot Martorell and published in Valencia in 1490, is a prime example of this evolution. It is nearly 800 pages long.
Tirant lo Blanc gives a human dimension to the literary figure of the knight. Tirant is strong and courageous, but he also tires, suffers accidents, and ultimately dies of simple pneumonia.
- Tirant in Love: Love is a central theme. Tirant falls in love at first sight with Princess Carmesina, but his timidity hinders his attempts to declare his feelings.
- Tirant, Captain General: War is another important element, showcasing Tirant’s skills as a cunning strategist.
Joanot Martorell
The author of Tirant lo Blanc, Joanot Martorell, was born in Valencia in 1410 and died in 1465. He came from the nobility and was a knight himself, known for his fighting spirit. As a gentleman, he valued messengers to carry his letters into battle. A long-standing dispute existed between Martorell and his cousin, Joan of Montpalau.
Martorell’s life at court allowed him to interact with knights from across Europe. Joanot was a great reader and, as a good knight, was always respectful. His work introduced humor, irony, and caricature.
Ausias March
Ausias March, son of the poet Peter March, was born in Gandia in 1397. He inherited a large estate upon his father’s death when he was 16. Six years later, he was knighted and fought in Sardinia and Corsica. From 1425, Ausias March continued to participate in military operations while also managing his property. He became governor and judge of the Duke of Gandia and was appointed falconer to the King.
In 1437, Martorell’s sister, Helen, married Ausias March. The relationship between the families was tense and troubled.
He died in 1459, his life typical of a young gentleman involved in military administration.
Ausias March: Master of Love
Ausias March is a poet who speaks constantly of love. Love is always a problem for him.
Specialist in Images and Comparisons
He had a great capacity to create vivid images and lengthy comparisons to express his thoughts.