Da vavassore a roïne. La duchessa di Borgogna e il suo ruolo di motore narrativo nel Girart de Vienne

This article explores the role of the Duchess of Burgundy as a narrative catalyst in the Old French epic “Girart de Vienne.” It examines how the poem reflects a shift in epic storytelling, emphasizing a collective reimagining of origins and characters to align with evolving audience sensibilities. The analysis highlights the transformation of Girart’s lineage, his early life, and the influence of the Duchess as a figure embodying feudal codes and gender roles. The Duchess’s strategic interventions, her portrayal as a figure acting with male authority, and her impact on the plot demonstrate her significance as a narrative engine. The study also considers the depiction of women and land, the importance of fidelity and honor, and the complex dynamics of loyalty and rebellion within the feudal system. Ultimately, the article underscores how the Duchess’s character and actions serve to reinforce the moral and social values of the epic, while also illustrating the shifting representations of gender and power in medieval literature.