I found myself most attracted to and fascinated by the symbolism imbedded in the tale. Most memorably, this version retains the original symbol of a harp. A harp free associates well in my mind. I think of Greek Gods looking to the Heavens and stringing their harps like they're making love to them - something angelic and passionate. Harps sound like poetry, and with all those strings, it takes a lot of skill to play one. Both Orpheus and Sir Orfeo are known for their mad harp skills. In fact, it's his harping that ultimately grants Sir Orfeo his wife:
Minstrel, your harping pleases me,
So ask whatever it might be,
And generously your boon I'll grant.
Now speak, and tell me what you want.
(Lines 449-452)
Of course, the Fairy King has to let us know he doesn't want to give Sir Orfeo's wife up but that he will, since he just said he'd do anything. What a nice guy! Who knew he was such a man of his word, let alone a man so moved by strings. You know, it's really a surprise that anyone keeps his word when he doesn't want to. If an evil fairy king can keep his word when he doesn't want to, why can't you?
After the Fairy King teaches us to stay true, Sir Orfeo reminds us to stay humble. First of all, this guy and his wife were the king and queen, and they aren't even recognized when they return to Winchester. Okay, maybe the lack of technology and passage of time can explain that one, but Sir Orfeo is still smart enough to remember that he really ditched out on his people, they might not understand why, and they might even hate him, so it's probably not be a good idea to reveal himself in his return without giving it much thought.
Instead, he chills on the outskirts of town and stops by a "beggar's hut by the city wall" (Line 486) to get the inside scoop on his kingdom. Then, he puts on "a suit of borrowed rags" (Line 501) and goes into town with his harp on his back with intent on finding out how loyal his people really are. I have to admit, I was looking forward to some drama in the kingdom upon his return, but once his squire's loyalty is clear, Sir Orfeo reclaims his throne and everything is pretty much happy ever after. Oh well, this anticlimax still teaches me two things:
- Love deserves your time and energy above all.
- Those who love you will not stop loving you when you're gone.
Nine Medieval Romances of Magic,re-rhymed in modern English by Marijane Osborn.
As someone who adores the Orpheus tale, I found Sir Orfeo rather interesting in contrast to the well known tale. The steps to the underworld really signified that he was descending into hell, however this setting was described as "paradise" for a brief moment. I've also never known too much about fairies in fairytales (the irony does not escape me), and while I knew of their mischievous ways, I didn't think they were capable of creating a literal hell on earth.
ReplyDeleteHowever, Eurydice's demise was much more climactic to me rather than Herodis' rescue. While I'm glad that his 10 years of struggle was rewarded with loyalty and love, I find it sadistically entertaining when he does not trust and loses everything because of a seemingly small mistake. But I guess such is life where small mistakes and cause major harm.
Quite a nice analysis and description of the tail. You summed up a lot of the ideas talked about in class, and even added a nice simple set of lesson you learned at the end.I found it odd when the fairy king was suddenly 'bound by his word' too. If anyone, it always seems the King is the one who can get away with the most shinanigans in a plot. Still, I quite liked this tale...especially after reading Emaré, which oddly felt a little too happy for me (which I NEVER say about stories) in comparison.
ReplyDeleteThe themes and lessons you highlight in your post really demonstrates to me how "Sir Orfeo" is a blend of Ancient Greek, Celtic, and Christian; specifically, the themes and lessons are the sort that Christians would want to teach. Trustworthiness, humility, and love are so important in Christian teachings and repeated often. They are included in the Sermon on the Mount. When the Bible speaks of love, it may be using any of three or four Greek words for different kinds of love. In "Sir Orfeo," as you touched on, there is the love between spouses Orfeo and Herodis, as well as the love that Orfeo's subjects have for their king. These are different kinds of love, but they are all important.
ReplyDeleteI really liked how we came across respectable men in this story. That's refreshing! The more I try and remember if Hercules had a harp in the story, I just can't remember but I do like how Orpheus uses it. Who doesn't like a man who can play an instrument well?? I love how the king kept his word despite not wanting to let go of her. I think this story shows us what is good about people and this very much contrasts with the Miller's tale when a lot of people had bad intentions in mind.
ReplyDelete