Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter
LX explained
Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir Dinadan encounter a knight who recognizes Tristram as his brother's killer, leading to a fight.
What happens
Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Sir Dinadan encounter a knight who recognizes Tristram as his brother's killer, leading to a fight. Later, they meet the King with the Hundred Knights and Sir Segwarides, resulting in jousts over a helm. Tristram defeats the king, and they proceed to Joyous Gard, where Dinadan is mocked by La Beale Isoud.
Themes in this chapter
Violence and Vengeance
The knight seeks vengeance for his brother's death, leading to a violent confrontation with Tristram.
Honor and Reputation
The joust over the helm reflects the importance of honor and possession as a symbol of love and reputation.
Characters to notice
- Sir Tristram de Liones
Defeats the knight who accused him of fratricide and later jousts with the King with the Hundred Knights.
- Sir Gareth of Orkney
Travels with Tristram and Dinadan, jousts with Sir Segwarides and is unhorsed.
- Sir Dinadan
Carries Tristram's helm, is unhorsed by the King with the Hundred Knights, and later mocked by La Beale Isoud.
- La Beale Isoud
Present at Joyous Gard where she laughs at Dinadan's misfortune.
Key passages
“Sir knight, said Sir Tristram, I am never advised that ever I slew any brother of yours; and if ye say that I did I will make amends unto my power.”
Tristram denies knowingly killing the knight's brother and offers to make amends.
Tristram's attempt at reconciliation despite the accusation.
“Lo, said Dinadan, that helm is unhappy to us twain, for I had a fall for it, and now, sir king, have ye another fall.”
Dinadan comments that the helm has brought misfortune to both him and the king.
Dinadan's humorous remark on the helm's ill luck.