What themes did troubadours typically sing about?

Troubadours typically sang about themes of chivalry and courtly love, which were central to the culture of the medieval courts in which they performed. Courtly love, a concept that idealized romantic relationships, often depicted love as an ennobling force that could inspire knights to achieve great deeds. This style of love was frequently expressed in a way that elevated the beloved, typically a noble lady, to a near-divine status.

Chivalry, meanwhile, encapsulated the ideals of knightly conduct, including bravery, honor, and loyalty. Troubadours often intertwined these themes in their songs, creating a rich tapestry of narrative that celebrated both the emotional aspects of love and the responsibilities of knighthood.

While the other themes listed—such as divine intervention, political affairs, and religious hymns—played significant roles in medieval culture, they were not the primary focus of troubadour poetry. Troubadours sought to express personal feelings and idealized relational dynamics rather than engage directly with overtly political or religious issues in the same way other genres of music and literature of the time did.