Memory, fame and imitation in the Memorial das Proezas da Segunda Távola Redonda

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore the connection between memory, chivalric deeds and imitation in the Memorial das Proezas da Segunda Távola Redonda. Throughout this text, author and narrator highlight the correlation between these three aspects, presenting the idea that written memory is essential to retain chivalric values and exceptional facts about the best knights and, within that, presenting the reader a role model for imitation. The main purpose is to present how this rhetorical structure is thematized, stressing the particularities about this text regarding the concept of memory presented. The most recent memory studies approaches will be used in order to underline the importance of representations of memory inside this narrative along with the didactic aspect.