The aim of the International Courtly Literature Society (ICLS) is to promote the study of courts and court-related cultures, with particular reference to the written records of medieval Europe. Appropriate areas include medieval vernacular genres (lay, romance, lyric poetry, drama, etc.), medieval Latin literature, the historical background to court life, and medieval art, architecture and music. The ICLS endeavors to support all those engaged in the study and teaching of courtly literature and cultures and currently has active branches in North America, Great Britain and Ireland, Spain and Portugal, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Hungary, and Germany. Residents of other countries may join any branch they choose. Membership is open to all those who share the interests of the ICLS and each member of a national branch is by extension a member of the international society.