# Owain's Adventure explained — Bulfinch’s Mythology

> Chapter companion for Bulfinch’s Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch.

## What happens

Owain, inspired by Kynon's tale, sets out to find the knight who guards the fountain. After a perilous journey, he defeats the black knight in combat but is trapped by a portcullis. A maiden named Luned helps him escape using a magical ring of invisibility. Owain falls in love with the Countess of the Fountain, the widow of the knight he slew. Luned then persuades the Countess to seek a new defender for her lands, promising to find a knight from Arthur's court.

## Themes in this chapter

### Heroism and the Quest

Owain's journey to find and defeat the fountain knight exemplifies the heroic quest.

### Love and Transformation

Owain's sudden love for the Countess transforms his purpose and leads to a new alliance.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Owain

The protagonist who undertakes the quest to find and defeat the knight guarding the fountain.

### Sir Kay

Mocks Owain's resolve but is rebuked by Queen Guenever.

### Queen Guenever

Defends Owain against Kay's taunts.

### Luned

The maiden who rescues Owain with a magical ring and later advises the Countess.

### Enid

The Countess of the Fountain, widow of the slain knight, with whom Owain falls in love.

## Key lines

> Now, quoth Owain, 'would it not be well to go and endeavor to discover that place?'

Owain suggests they should try to find the place described.

_Owain initiates his quest._

> By the hand of my friend, said Kay, often dost thou utter that with thy tongue which thou wouldest not make good with thy deeds.

Kay accuses Owain of making promises he won't keep.

_Kay's taunt spurs Owain to prove himself._

> Verily, said Owain, she is the woman that I love best.

Owain declares his love for the Countess.

_Owain's love at first sight for the widow._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se/chapters/owain-s-adventure
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/bulfinch_s_mythology_se/chapters