How we cite our quotes: (Line Number)
Quote #1
I blame him thus, that he considered noght
In tyme cominge what mighte him bityde,
But on his lust present was al his thought,
As for to hauke and hunte on every syde;
We ny alle othere cures leet he slyde,
And eek he nolde-and that was worst of alle –
Wedde no wyf, for noght that may bifalle. (78-84)
As his people's leader, Walter fails in his duty to them by neglecting to think about the future. One of his most important duties is to produce a legitimate heir, something he can only do if he marries.
Quote #2
Accepteth, lord, now of youre gentillesse,
That we with pitous herte unto yow pleyne,
And lete youre eres nat my voys disdeyne. (96-98)
Just as Walter's nobles owe him obedience and loyalty, he owes it to them to take their advice seriously when they offer it. The duty of a lord to listen to counsel has a long-established tradition by this time period.
Quote #3
And ay she kepte hir fadres lyf on lofte
With everich obeisaunce and diligence
That child may doon to fadres reverence. (229-231)
Grisilde is a dutiful daughter, doing everything in her power to sustain her father's life. This kind of makes you wonder what Janicula's going to do when Walter takes Grisilde away.