How do the Representations and Functions of Chivalric Narratives Express the Nature of Chivalry During the Middle Ages?

This thesis explores the expressions of chivalry within Thomas Malory’s Le Morte D’Arthur, what Malory deems to be suitable chivalric behaviours and life lessons to which his audience can learn from. It aims to show that Malory’s narrative was composed with his own specific agenda and furthermore that it was adapted to suit a variety of purposes, spreading to various audiences through various genres. It was also aimed at both men and women with women becoming an increasing audience for Malory’s narrative. Furthermore the themes originating within the manuscript have importance and relevance to audiences across various centuries, a reason behind William Caxton’s publications of it.