Malory’s Gwenyvere and Her Ladies

Authors

Molly A. Martin, University of IndianapolisFollow

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This essay argues that in Malory’s Morte Darthur, Gwenyvere, like the English queens of the late medieval period, has a coterie of ladies in service who are essential to her relationship with Launcelot in particular. Their support provides a site of resistance to the male chivalric world that dominates the Arthurian community, especially when considered through the lens of female friendship, and helps the queen transgress patriarchal expectations.

Keywords

Malory, Guinevere, adultery, female friendship, ladies

Recommended Citation

Martin, Molly A. "Malory’s Gwenyvere and Her Ladies." Medieval Feminist Forum: A Journal of Gender and Sexuality 59, No. 1 (2023) : 58-78.