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IMC 2012: Sessions

Session 532: Arthurian Traditions: Codes and Code Breaking

Tuesday 10 July 2012, 09.00-10.30

Sponsor:British Branch, International Arthurian Society
Organiser:Johnny McFadyen, Department of English / Centre for Medieval Studies, University of Bristol
Moderator/Chair:Pamela M. King, Centre for Medieval Studies, University of Bristol
Paper 532-aHow to Behave in Medieval Welsh Arthurian tradition
(Language: English)
Lowri Haf Morgans, Department of Welsh, Aberystwyth University
Index terms: Language and Literature - Celtic, Language and Literature - Comparative
Paper 532-bThe Codification of Heraldry and Armour in Middle English Arthurian Texts
(Language: English)
Sarah Brazil, Département de langue et littérature anglaises, Université de Genève
Index terms: Language and Literature - Comparative, Language and Literature - Middle English
Paper 532-cBad Arthur: Kings and Kingship in the Latin Tradition
(Language: English)
Johnny McFadyen, Department of English / Centre for Medieval Studies, University of Bristol
Index terms: Language and Literature - Comparative, Language and Literature - Latin
Abstract

This session examines the implications and consequences of following (or not following) rules in three different Arthurian traditions. The first paper will concentrate on the Welsh tradition, focussing on the rules of seemly behaviour as set out in Medieval Welsh Arthurian texts and the consequences of causing offence or not following the correct procedures. The second paper will be concerned with Middle English, investigating how both heraldry and armour function within these texts with a view to discussing their role as both a communicative and potentially disruptive force within the narrative. And the final paper will consider the rules of exemplary kingship as set out in two neglected Latin prose romances, examining issues of characterization and the narrative consequences of deviating from appropriate knightly behaviour. Aside from offering valuable insight into the multifaceted nature and variety of rules and codes within Arthurian literature, this session will also underline the inherent benefits of studying Arthurian texts alongside works in other vernacular languages as well as those in the Latin tradition.