1. Rise of the Vernacular:
* Growing literacy: While Latin was still the language of the learned, the 12th century witnessed a surge in literacy among the common people. This was fueled by the rise of universities, expanding education, and the growth of administrative institutions.
* Cultural Shift: The focus began shifting from the elite, Latin-speaking clergy to the lay, vernacular-speaking population. This coincided with a growing sense of national identity, which found expression in vernacular literature.
2. Patronage and Social Change:
* Patronage of the Nobility: Powerful nobles, particularly those with ambitions to build their reputation and influence, became patrons of vernacular literature. They commissioned and funded the creation of chansons de geste, which often celebrated their ancestry, heroic deeds, and territorial claims.
* Rise of the Chivalric Ideal: The chanson de geste coincided with the rise of the chivalric ideal. These tales provided models of knightly conduct, courage, and loyalty, resonating with a growing warrior class.
3. Oral Tradition and Performance:
* Oral Tradition: The chansons de geste were originally composed and disseminated orally, traveling from court to court by traveling storytellers. This ensured their widespread appeal across social classes.
* Performance: Chansons de geste were not just stories, but were performed with music and dramatic elements. This made them entertaining and engaging for audiences, contributing to their popularity.
4. Historical Context:
* The Crusades: The 12th century saw a surge in religious fervor and the Crusades, which provided fertile ground for heroic narratives. The chansons de geste often intertwined Christian ideals with tales of war and chivalry, creating a powerful resonance with their audience.
* The Reconquista: In Spain, the ongoing Reconquista against the Moors also provided inspiration for heroic narratives, contributing to the development of Spanish vernacular literature.
In summary: The rise of the chanson de geste was driven by a complex interaction of social, cultural, and historical factors. It represented a shift in cultural power, the rise of a new literary form, and a powerful reflection of the values of the time. This shift also contributed to the emergence of vernacular literature in other European countries, creating a rich and diverse literary landscape.