Sketch The Character of Troilus

Answer

Troilus is the chief Protagonist in the poem,’ ‘Troilus and Criseyde.’ Discuss.

Or, Sketch the character of Troilus.

Troilus is the protagonist of the poem ‘Troilus and Criseyde’ (1385) by Geoffrey Chaucer (1340-1400). Chaucer reveals his expertness in the art of characterization through Troilus and Criseyde. As a protagonist of the poem, Chaucer represents Troilus as a virtuous, faithful, self-sacrificing lover. He is a Trojan prince, warrior, and son of King Priam. Though his strong personality is shown in the very beginning, his gradual transformation leads him to terrible suffering. In the light of Chaucer in the poem ‘Troilus and Criseyde ‘, the characteristics of Troilus are exposed.

Troilus as a Mocker of Love: At the beginning of the poem “Troilus and Criseyde”, we find that Troilus is not interested in women. He had no faith in love. Chaucer presents himself as a manly young knight. He had no weakness. Even he was mocking his knights when they developed feelings for women. Chaucer says,

That Love is he that alle thing may binde;

For may no man for-do the lawe of kinde.

Troilus is above that type of behaviour. Troilus was very proud of his respectable and authoritative position. He is often compared to his older brother, Hector, Troy’s hero. Chaucer rightly remarks,

This Troilus, as he was wont to gyde

               His yonge knightes, ladde hem up and doun

               In thilke large temple on every syde,

The Embodiment of an Innocent Young Lover: As Troilus shows his strong personality about love and woman, he is struck by Cupid and falls instantly in love with Criseyde. Chaucer states,

For sodeynly he hit him at the fulle;

From here, he becomes single-mindedly focused on winning her over as his lady. Troilus’s inexplicable love for Criseyde transforms and humbles him. It influences him to become a more chivalrous, honourable, and mature man who realizes the true value of