# How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides followed and excused him explained — Le Morte d’Arthur

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

## What happens

After the tournament, Sir Tristram, Gareth, and Dinadan ride with La Beale Isoud to their pavilions, accompanied by a disguised Sir Palomides. Tristram recognizes Palomides and confronts him about his treachery during the tournament, but ultimately forgives him. La Beale Isoud, however, is furious, having witnessed Palomides's betrayal firsthand, and struggles to accept his presence.

## Themes in this chapter

### Betrayal and Treachery

Palomides's deceit in disguising himself and attacking Tristram during the tournament, witnessed by Isoud.

### Honor and Reputation

Tristram confronts Palomides about his ungentle behavior, and Palomides excuses himself to preserve his honor.

### Love and Adultery

La Beale Isoud's deep concern for Tristram's safety and her anger at Palomides's betrayal reflect her devotion.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Tristram de Liones

Confronts Palomides about his treachery during the tournament but forgives him.

### La Beale Isoud

Furious with Palomides for betraying Tristram; she witnessed the entire treason.

### Sir Palomides

Disguised as a knight with a silver shield; follows the company and excuses his actions, claiming he did not recognize Tristram.

### Sir Gareth of Orkney

Rides with Tristram and Dinadan after the tournament.

### Sir Dinadan

Rides with Tristram and Gareth after the tournament.

### Sir Launcelot du Lake

Mentioned as the knight who fought alongside Palomides and nearly overcame Tristram.

## Key lines

> Ah, Sir Palomides, said the noble knight Sir Tristram, are ye such a knight? Ye have been named wrong, for ye have long been called a gentle knight, and as this day ye have showed me great ungentleness, for ye had almost brought me unto my death.

Tristram rebukes Palomides, saying his reputation as a gentle knight is undeserved after today's treacherous attack that nearly killed him.

_Tristram confronts Palomides about his dishonorable behavior during the tournament._

> Truly, sir, I saw every deal, how and in what wise, and therefore, sir, how should I suffer in your presence such a felon and traitor as Sir Palomides; for I saw him with mine eyes, how he beheld you when ye went out of the field.

Isoud tells Tristram she witnessed every detail of Palomides's betrayal and cannot bear to have such a traitor in their company.

_Isoud expresses her anger and distress over Palomides's treachery._

## Links

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