# Book II explained — Le Morte d’Arthur

> Chapter companion for Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory.

## What happens

Book II continues the adventures of Sir Balin, including the Dolorous Stroke and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death and that of his brother Balan, as well as the adventures of other knights such as Sir Launcelot and Sir Gawaine.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fate and Tragedy

The tragic fates of Balin and Balan highlight the inescapable nature of destiny.

### Violence and Vengeance

The Dolorous Stroke and subsequent events are driven by violence and revenge.

## Character check-ins

### Balin le Savage

Central figure in Book II, involved in the Dolorous Stroke and his eventual death.

### Balan

Brother of Balin, meets a tragic end alongside Balin.

### Sir Launcelot du Lake

Appears in adventures within Book II.

### Sir Gawaine

Participates in various adventures in Book II.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/book-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters