Gray renders an honest portrait of medieval thought and opinion. Although basic human emotions may not have changed much since the Middle Ages, social attitudes have developed considerably. The changes in social outlook are particularly apparent when one considers the perspectives toward women and class conflict portrayed in Adam of the Road. One subplot involves the dilemma of a nobleman's daughter who is forced to marry a wealthy and powerful old knight, even though she prefers a handsome young squire who loves her. One character comments, "She's only a girl.

She's got to do what she is told." Adam expresses some dismay about the situation, but no conclusions are drawn.

Another episode reveals the disparity between the rights and the privileges of the rich and the poor. One character questions the justice of the king owning miles of land and forbidding the hungry to shoot the...