Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Kynon's Adventure explained
At King Arthur's court in Caerleon, Kynon recounts his past quest for adventure.
What happens
At King Arthur's court in Caerleon, Kynon recounts his past quest for adventure. He describes traveling to a magnificent castle, receiving lavish hospitality, and being directed by a black woodward to a magical fountain. After pouring water from a silver bowl onto a marble slab, he triggers a thunderstorm and a shower, followed by the song of birds. A black knight then appears, defeats him in combat, and takes his horse, leaving Kynon humiliated. He returns to the castle for another night of hospitality before going back to his own court.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
Kynon's journey to seek adventures and test his prowess exemplifies the knightly quest for glory and self-discovery.
Hospitality and Its Violation
Kynon receives generous hospitality at the castle, but his challenge at the fountain provokes a hostile response from the black knight, contrasting proper conduct.
Characters to notice
- King Arthur
Presides over his court at Caerleon upon Usk, sleeps while his knights tell tales.
- Sir Owain
Present in Arthur's chamber and prompts Kynon to tell his tale to Kay.
- Sir Kay
The seneschal who provides mead and meat, then demands a story from Kynon.
- Queen Guenever
Sits with her handmaidens at needlework by the window in Arthur's chamber.
Key passages
“I was the only son of my mother and father, and I was exceedingly aspiring, and my daring was very great. I thought there was no enterprise in the world too mighty for me.”
Kynon describes himself as an ambitious and fearless young man who believed he could accomplish any feat.
Sets up his character as overconfident before his humbling defeat.
“And I saw there every sort of meat, and every sort of liquor that I ever saw elsewhere; but the meat and the liquor were better served there than I ever saw them in any other place.”
The feast at the castle was the finest Kynon had ever experienced, surpassing all others in quality and service.
Emphasizes the extraordinary hospitality of the castle.
“And I confess to thee, Kay, it is a marvel that I did not melt down into a liquid pool, through the shame that I felt at the black man's derision.”
Kynon admits he was so ashamed after being mocked by the black man that he nearly dissolved from embarrassment.
Highlights the depth of his humiliation after his defeat.