CRISEYDE AMONG THE GREEKS

In Troilus and Criseyde Chaucer also tells Criseyde's sad story. From first to last Criseyde is in a weak position until, when she is traded for Antenor, she becomes a blameless exile, though she accepts her fate with nobility. In the Greek camp she realizes she can't keep her promise to return in ten days and, realizing Troilus will think her false, falls into despair. Ignorant of what is transpiring in Troy, she is befriended and protected by Diomede, and subjected to his propaganda. Although Criseyde becomes Diomede's lover, the timing of her betrayal is never clear. She writes Troilus that wicked speech keeps her from returning, a charge that is credible because Troilus has tried to discover if she is false. Troilus' death at Achilles' hands may indicate he broke his vow of secrecy. Considering the hardships Criseyde faces, the reader can, with the narrator, forgive her for pity.