Final answer:
Medieval romance literature is characterized by themes such as chivalry, courtly love, and adventure, featuring knightly heroes like the 'red-cross knight' and romantic and Gothic elements. Courtly love began in present-day France and included tales of knights performing noble deeds. During the Romanticism era, there was a resurgence of interest in medieval and Gothic themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Medieval romance literature refers to a body of literary works that arose during the Middle Ages, revolving around themes of chivalry, courtly love, and adventure. These stories often feature knightly heroes, enchanting ladies, and quests for love or honor. One prominent figure is the 'red-cross knight', a symbol of St. George, the patron saint of England, and represents the ideal of Christian chivalry. Romantic and Gothic themes are prevalent in medieval literature, showcasing elements such as romantic love, supernatural occurrences, and dark, mysterious settings.
The tradition of courtly love began in areas which are present-day France and quickly spread throughout Europe. It was primarily a literary construct that entertained the nobility with its tales of knights and their noble deeds for their ladies. In these stories, the protagonists would typically embark on adventurous quests that tested their virtues and valor.
During the rise of Romanticism in Europe, there was a renewed interest in medieval themes, including those from Gothic literature which featured dark and supernatural elements as seen in the works of Horace Walpole and Matthew Gregory Lewis. Gothic romances portrayed intense emotions and often led characters into eerie and frightful situations which were a significant deviation from the traditional romantic tales.