The Inept Lover and the Reluctant Mistress: Remarks on Sexual Inefficiency in Medieval Literature

Author / Editor
Renoir, Alain.

Title
The Inept Lover and the Reluctant Mistress: Remarks on Sexual Inefficiency in Medieval Literature

Published
Edward Vasta and Zacharias P. Thundy, ed. Chaucerian Problems and Perspectives: Essays Presented to Paul E. Beichner, C. S. C. (Notre Dame, Ind.: University of Notre Dame Press, 1979), pp. 180-206.

Description
TC reveals on a serious level a sexual pattern similar to that of the ludicrous MilT. In spite of disparity of social status, Alisoun and Criseyde offer the same promise to a would-be lover; Absolon and Troilus suffer in similar ways; the same kind of parallel exists between Nicholas and Diomede. Male sexual frustration in MilT and TC contrasts to the woman's tragedy in the Icelandic "Gunnlaugssaga."

Alternative Title
Chaucerian Problems and Perspectives: Essays Presented to Paul E. Beichner, C. S. C.

Chaucer Subjects
Troilus and Criseyde.
Miller and His Tale.