scholars argue that Nabaret has more in common with a fabliau than a lai Interpretation of the wife's retort An analysis of the text reveals some potential explanations for the wife's behavior. The relationship between Nabaret and the wife's family could suggest an arranged marriage between socially unequal partners. The woman's haughty tone and her family's mockery shows contempt of the husband. In addition, Nabaret only complains of his wife's clothing, not of having to pay for them, which may indicate that she has some money of her own. Several interpretations have been given of the wife's answer to her family. The wife suggests a pact: she will modify her behavior in return for better hygiene on the part of her husband. The wife suggests that the husband should dress in such a way that she should be jealous. The wife suggests that the husband groom himself in an unattractive way, as he is suggesting that she be less attractive. The wife suggests that the husband groom himself like an old man. (At this period in history, young men were clean shaven and older men wore beards.) Notes and references See also Breton lai Anglo-Norman literature Medieval literature Medieval French literature External links Nabaret in English translation alongside the Old French verse French poems Anonymous lais Old French texts