Meaning: The quote "In our fathers' time nothing was read but books of feigned chivalry, wherein a man by reading should be led to none other end, but only to manslaughter and bawdry" is attributed to Roger Ascham, a 16th-century English writer. This quote reflects Ascham's criticism of the prevalent literary culture during his time, particularly the popularity of chivalric literature.

During the Renaissance period, chivalric romance literature, which depicted fantastical and often exaggerated tales of medieval chivalry, was widely read and enjoyed. These stories often featured knights engaging in heroic quests, rescuing damsels in distress, and engaging in duels and battles. However, Ascham's quote suggests that he viewed such literature as having a negative influence on its readers, leading them towards violence and lascivious behavior rather than moral and intellectual development.

Roger Ascham himself was known for his humanist beliefs and his advocacy for a more rigorous and morally edifying form of education. As a tutor to Queen Elizabeth I, he emphasized the importance of classical learning and the study of moral philosophy over the consumption of popular chivalric romances. Ascham's most famous work, "The Schoolmaster," promoted the idea of education as a means to cultivate virtue and wisdom, in contrast to the perceived moral pitfalls of chivalric literature.

In his criticism of chivalric literature, Ascham may have been influenced by broader concerns about the impact of popular culture on society. Like many humanists of his time, he sought to elevate the intellectual and moral standards of the populace through education and the promotion of more wholesome literary works.

It is important to note that Ascham's critique of chivalric literature should be understood within the context of his own cultural and historical milieu. The Renaissance was a period of significant cultural and intellectual change, and debates about the moral and social impact of literature were common. Ascham's perspective can be seen as part of a larger conversation about the role of literature in shaping individual and societal values.

Furthermore, Ascham's criticism of chivalric literature raises questions about the relationship between fiction and reality. While chivalric romances were works of imagination, Ascham believed that their portrayal of violence and licentious behavior could have real-world consequences. This concern reflects a broader anxiety about the power of literature to shape attitudes and behaviors, a theme that continues to be relevant in discussions about media and its impact on society.

In conclusion, Roger Ascham's quote encapsulates his critique of the prevalence of chivalric literature in his time and its perceived detrimental effects on readers. His perspective reflects his humanist beliefs and his commitment to promoting a more morally and intellectually enriching form of education. Ascham's criticism of chivalric literature also prompts us to consider the broader societal and ethical implications of the media and cultural artifacts we consume, a conversation that remains relevant today.