# Social Class and Power in Lais

> Theme guide for Lais by Marie de France.

Class distinctions and power dynamics influence relationships, as seen in 'The Lay of Sir Launfal' where a knight is scorned by the court, and in 'The Lay of Equitan' where a king's love for a vassal's wife challenges social hierarchy.

## Where it surfaces

- [The Lay of the Ash Tree](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/lais_se/chapters/the-lay-of-the-ash-tree): Frêne's abandonment due to her mother's fear of social shame and her later rise through love and virtue highlight class dynamics and the power of reputation.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/lais_se/themes/social_class_and_power
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/lais_se/themes