How we cite our quotes: (Line Number)
Quote #1
A markys whilom lord was of that lond,
As were his worthy eldres hym bifore,
And obeisant and redy to his hond
Were alle his liges, bothe lasse and moore.
Thus in delit he lyveth, and hath doon yoore,
Biloved and drad thurgh favour of Fortune,
Bothe of his lordes and of his commune. (64-70)
The first thing we learn about Walter is that he is a totally powerful guy. Not only is he a marquis, but all his "lieges," or noblemen, are obedient and ready to come at his command. Moreover, Walter is not only loved, but "drad," or feared, by his lords and the people he rules. It looks like Walter's power is real—and that he uses it enough for people to fear him.
Quote #2
I dar the bettre aske of yow a space
Of audience to shewen oure requeste,
And ye, my lord, to doon right as yow leste. (103-105)
By saying that Walter can "doon right as [he] leste," the nobleman who petitions him shows how aware he is of Walter's absolute sovereignty. He is careful to portray his request as nothing more than a humble petition; Walter, he says, can do as he sees fit.
Quote #3
Boweth youre nekke under that blisful yok
Of soveraynetee, noght of servyse,
Which that men clepeth spousaille or wedlock. (113-115)
Walter's nobleman is trying to combat a popular perception of marriage as an institution that constrains those who enter it under a "yoke." A yoke is a harness placed on two animals so that they can pull things in pairs. It's not a pretty picture, and it's obviously the view of marriage Walter himself has. It's almost as if, later, he's trying to stay clear of the yoke by placing it solely on Grisilde.