Clandestine Marriage and Chaucer's 'Troilus'

Author / Editor
Kelly, Henry Ansgar.

Title
Clandestine Marriage and Chaucer's 'Troilus'

Published
Viator 4 (1973): 435-58.

Description
Defines clandestine marriage and describes it as a widespread and well-known phenomenon in fourteenth-century England, even though condemned by the Church. Argues that because the lovers in TC are not Christian, their love is "licit" and not adulterous, exploring the features and implications of their marital contract. Also comments on aspects of clandestine marriage in RvT, WBT, KnT, and LGW.

Chaucer Subjects
Troilus and Criseyde
Reeve and His Tale
Wife of Bath and Her Tale
Knight and His Tale
Legend of Good Women