CHANT ROYAL Meaning and
Definition
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Chant royal is a poetic form that originated in France during the 14th century. It is a complex and structured verse often associated with royal subjects, hence its name. The term "chant" refers to the singing-like quality of the poem, while "royal" signifies its noble and majestic tone.
This form typically consists of seven stanzas, each containing variable numbers of lines, although most commonly used is the quintains or five-line stanza. Each line is usually composed of ten or eleven syllables, following a tight rhyme scheme (ababccddedE).
The chant royal is characterized by its use of formal language and elaborate imagery, expressing grand themes such as power, courtly love, honor, and valor. Its tone is often elevated and reverential, befitting the regal subjects it addresses.
The structure of the chant royal is carefully patterned, with each stanza composed of a rhyming envoy or concluding tercet that repeats the rhymes from the previous stanzas. This creates a formal unity and reinforces the sense of closure in the poem.
Due to its complexity and rigid structure, the chant royal is regarded as a challenging poetic form, requiring skill and craftsmanship from the poet. Its use of sophisticated language and formal structure reflects the poetic traditions of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, making it a notable example of medieval verse.
Etymology of CHANT ROYAL
The word "chant royal" comes from Old French and has its roots in the Latin language.
"Chant" in Old French meant "song" or "singing" and comes from the Latin word "cantus", which has the same meaning.
"Royal" in Old French meant "related to a king" or "regal" and comes from the Latin word "regalis", which means "of a king" or "kingly".
So, when combined, "chant royal" refers to a type of song or singing that is associated with kings or has a regal quality to it. This term is commonly used to describe a medieval French poetic form characterized by its specific structure and content.
