English literature
7. Courtly love. The favour to be found with ladies is one of the main topics of the competitions. With the
improved standards of living, war band had to rethink their attitude to women. Marriage could be only
between people of one rank, there was loyalty between relatives, which often brought to intermarriage.
The prime functions were dynastic alliance and purity of the lineage. So sexual relationships were
strictly watched, so there had to be found a way to protect noblewomen and to change the sexual
energies of hot-headed young into socially acceptable behavior. The culture of courtly love removed the
lady from within the reach of her social interiors by putting her on a pedestal. The men around her are
allowed to focus their desire on her person in an asexual and controlled way. Man could become her
champion in tournaments or dedicate his heart to her in poetry and song. The knight's service of the
annaabi.ee 
