Final answer:
A dream vision in medieval literature refers to a narrative technique where the main character experiences a vision within a dream, often with divine or prophetic implications, used to discuss philosophical and religious themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dream vision is a literary technique commonly used in medieval literature. It involves a narrative where the protagonist falls asleep and experiences a vision, typically carrying a message or moral teaching. These were often portrayed as prophetic or sent by a divine agency. This approach allowed medieval authors to discuss complex religious and philosophical themes within the context of the dream, adding layers of allegory to their storytelling.
One of the classic examples is The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, where he is guided through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. Another example is Geoffrey Chaucer's The Book of the Duchess, which is a dream vision reflecting on the themes of love and loss. The technique blends the real with the surreal, creating a narrative that operates on multiple levels, questioning the nature of reality and the divine.