Here are some conclusions about their tastes, based on Malory's work:
Themes and Values:
* Chivalry: The text is deeply invested in ideals of chivalry, valor, honor, and courtly love. The emphasis on knightly deeds, quests, and the pursuit of honor aligns with medieval ideals of the "perfect knight".
* Religion: The Christian faith is woven throughout the narrative, influencing character motivations, plot events, and ultimately, the fate of King Arthur. The inclusion of biblical figures and religious references suggests a significant role of religion in medieval life.
* Fate and Destiny: A sense of preordained destiny and the power of fate permeates the story. This aligns with medieval beliefs about the power of God's will and the inevitability of certain events.
* Moral Ambiguity: While the story celebrates chivalry, it also explores the complexities of human nature and the potential for moral failings even among noble characters. This suggests an audience capable of grappling with moral complexities.
* Tragedy and Loss: The downfall of King Arthur and the breakdown of Camelot are presented as a tragedy. This suggests a medieval audience interested in exploring themes of loss, mortality, and the fragility of societal structures.
Style and Structure:
* Romance and Adventure: The story's structure and content align with the genre of romance, with its focus on adventure, love, and the supernatural. This preference for exciting, fantastical narratives suggests a taste for escapism and entertainment.
* Episodic Structure: The story unfolds through a series of episodic adventures, each with its own set of challenges and outcomes. This suggests a medieval audience accustomed to a more fragmented narrative style.
* Oral Tradition: The language and storytelling style of "Morte d'Arthur" show influences of oral storytelling traditions. This indicates a culture where storytelling played a vital role in transmitting information, history, and entertainment.
Overall, the "Morte d'Arthur" reflects a medieval audience who appreciated stories that:
* Celebrated chivalry and courtly ideals.
* Explored the power of faith, fate, and human fallibility.
* Offered exciting adventures and romance.
* Held a significant place for oral storytelling and cultural transmission.
However, it's crucial to remember that this is just one perspective on medieval taste in literature. Other works from the period, such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales," offer different insights into the diverse tastes of medieval audiences.