# Of the first war that King Arthur had, and how he won the field explained — Le Morte d’Arthur

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

## What happens

King Arthur emerges from his tower with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sir Baudwin, Sir Kay, and Sir Brastias to confront the rebel kings. After harsh words, Arthur returns to arm himself and his knights. Merlin warns the kings but they dismiss him. Merlin then advises Arthur to fight with his ordinary sword until necessary, then draw Excalibur. Arthur attacks the kings' lodging, and his knights perform marvels. King Lot and others flank Arthur, unhorsing him, but his knights remount him. Drawing Excalibur, Arthur's sword shines like thirty torches, driving back the enemy. The commons of Carlion join the fray, and the rebel kings flee. Merlin counsels Arthur not to pursue further.

## Themes in this chapter

### Kingship and Governance

Arthur asserts his authority against rebellious kings, establishing his right to rule through battle.

### Violence and Vengeance

The chapter depicts fierce combat with many slain, as Arthur and his knights fight to subdue the rebel coalition.

## Character check-ins

### King Arthur

Leads his knights against the rebel kings, draws Excalibur for the first time in battle, and wins the field.

### Merlin

Advises Arthur to hold back Excalibur until needed, warns the rebel kings, and counsels Arthur not to pursue.

### Sir Kay

Fights alongside Arthur, slaying enemies on the right and left.

### Sir Brastias

One of Arthur's most worshipful men, fights valiantly in the battle.

### King Lot of Lothian

Leads the rebel kings, breaks out on the back side, and smites down King Arthur.

### King Carados of Scotland

Joins King Lot in flanking Arthur from behind.

## Key lines

> Then he drew his sword Excalibur, but it was so bright in his enemies’ eyes, that it gave light like thirty torches.

Arthur unsheathed Excalibur, and its brilliance dazzled his foes as if thirty torches blazed at once.

_Highlights the magical and awe-inspiring nature of Excalibur in Arthur's first battle._

> Be we well advised to be afeared of a dream-reader? said King Lot.

King Lot mocked Merlin, asking if they should fear a mere interpreter of dreams.

_Shows the rebel kings' disdain for Merlin's counsel._

## Links

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