Lines 49-146 Summary

The narrator describes the setting of his dream. It is May. The narrator sets out to visit the countryside and enjoy the beauties of nature in the springtime such as the fresh leaves, the flowers, and birdsong. He finds a river of clear water and follows its course. He comes across a garden encircled by high walls with many pictures painted on it.

Lines 49-146 Analysis

These lines are, for the most part, a celebration of springtime and the beauties of nature, especially after the deadness and sterility of winter. Allegorically, springtime represents youth and the time of life when humans first experience romantic stirrings.

This poem was translated into (Middle) English by Chaucer. It is interesting to compare this passage with Chaucer's well-known Prologue to the Canterbury Tales. The main comparison lies in the idea that the coming of spring...