Lais · Question
How does Lais develop the theme of Jealousy and Possessiveness?
Answer
Lais by Marie de France develops Jealousy and Possessiveness across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Jealousy, often from older husbands or guardians, drives conflict and tragedy, as in 'The Lay of Gugemar' where the King imprisons his young wife, and 'The Lay of the Nightingale' where a husband kills the bird to control his wife.
The husband's jealousy drives him to trap and kill the nightingale, symbolizing his attempt to control his wife's affections.
The seneschal's jealousy upon discovering his wife's infidelity drives him to kill both her and the king.
The old husband's extreme jealousy leads him to imprison his wife and ultimately set a deadly trap for her lover.
Evidence in the book
- The Lay of the Nightingale
The husband's jealousy drives him to trap and kill the nightingale, symbolizing his attempt to control his wife's affections.
- The Lay of Equitan
The seneschal's jealousy upon discovering his wife's infidelity drives him to kill both her and the king.
- The Lay of Yonec
The old husband's extreme jealousy leads him to imprison his wife and ultimately set a deadly trap for her lover.