THE SCENE: A lovesick knight uses an unusual line of argument to seduce a married woman: convince her that he would literally die if she didn’t have sex with him.
THE TEXT: Guigemar was very much in love and either had to receive relief or be forced to live a life of misery. Love emboldened him to reveal his feelings to her. “My lady,” he said, “I am dying because of you; my heart is giving me great pain. If you are not willing to cure me, then it must all end in my death. I am asking for your love. Fair one, do not refuse me.”
When she heard his words, she replied fittingly, and said lightly: “Friend, such a decision would be over-hasty: I am not accustomed to such requests.” “My lady,” he replied, “in God’s name have mercy on me! Do not be distressed if I say this this: a woman is always fickle likes to extend courtship in order to enhance her own esteem and so that the man will not realize that she has experienced the pleasure of love. But the well-intentioned lade, who is worthy and wise, should not be too harsh towards a man, if she finds him to her liking, she should rather love him and enjoy his love. Before anyone discovered or hears of their love, they will greatly profit from it. Fair lady, let us put and end to this discussion.”
The lady recognized the truth of his words and granted him her love without delay. He kissed her and henceforth was at peace. They lay together and talked, kissing and embracing. May the final act, which others are accustomed to enjoy, give them pleasure.
– Guigemar, Marie de France, 12th Century AD
