Meaning: The quote "Great were the lamentation and the cry when the news of this mischance was noised about the city. Such a tumult of mourning was never before heard, for the whole city was moved." is from "The Lamentations of Marie France," a medieval poem written by the anonymous poet Marie de France. This quote reflects the deep sense of grief and sorrow experienced by the people in the city upon hearing about an unfortunate event. Marie de France is known for her poetic narratives that often explore themes of love, loss, and human emotions, and this quote is a powerful example of her ability to capture the intensity of emotions in her works.

The quote conveys a sense of collective mourning and despair that envelops the entire city in response to the tragic news. The use of the word "lamentation" suggests a profound and sorrowful expression of grief, while "cry" emphasizes the audible and emotional outpouring of sorrow. The phrase "this mischance" implies an unexpected and unfortunate event that has befallen the city, leading to widespread distress and upheaval. The description of "such a tumult of mourning" further underscores the overwhelming and chaotic nature of the city's emotional response, indicating that the impact of the event reverberates deeply within the community.

Marie de France's portrayal of the city's reaction as "never before heard" signifies the unprecedented magnitude of the grief, emphasizing the exceptional nature of the event and its profound effect on the people. The phrase "the whole city was moved" encapsulates the idea that the emotional turmoil transcends individual experiences and unites the entire community in a shared sense of loss and devastation.

In interpreting this quote, it is important to consider the historical and cultural context of Marie de France's writing. During the medieval period, communities often relied on oral traditions and communal gatherings to express and process their emotions, especially in response to significant events or tragedies. This quote captures the communal nature of grief and the powerful impact of shared sorrow within the city.

Furthermore, the quote exemplifies Marie de France's skill in depicting human emotions with vivid and evocative language. Through her poetic expression, she creates a poignant and immersive portrayal of the city's mourning, inviting readers to empathize with the collective anguish experienced by the inhabitants.

Overall, this quote from "The Lamentations of Marie France" encapsulates the profound emotional resonance and communal solidarity in the face of tragedy. It serves as a testament to Marie de France's ability to convey the depth of human experience through her poetic narrative, leaving a lasting impression of the enduring power of shared grief and compassion.