# How Arthur by the mean of Merlin gat Excalibur his sword of the Lady of the Lake explained — Le Morte d’Arthur > Chapter companion for Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory. ## What happens King Arthur, recovering from wounds with Merlin's aid, obtains the magical sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake. Merlin advises Arthur to value the scabbard more than the sword, as it protects him from blood loss. They encounter Sir Pellinore, but Merlin's enchantment prevents Pellinore from seeing Arthur. They return to Carlion, where Arthur's knights rejoice at his safe return. ## Themes in this chapter ### Kingship and Governance Arthur's acquisition of Excalibur symbolizes his divine right and readiness to rule, while Merlin's counsel emphasizes wisdom in leadership. ### Religious Quest and Redemption The hermit's healing and the mystical nature of Excalibur's bestowal evoke themes of spiritual guidance and providential aid. ## Character check-ins ### King Arthur Receives Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake; is advised by Merlin to keep the scabbard for its protective power. ### Merlin Guides Arthur to the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur; uses craft to hide Arthur from Sir Pellinore. ### King Pellinore Passes by Arthur on the road but does not see him due to Merlin's enchantment. ## Key lines > Lo! said Merlin, yonder is that sword that I spake of. Merlin points out the sword he had promised Arthur. _Merlin reveals the location of Excalibur._ > for the scabbard is worth ten of the swords, for whiles ye have the scabbard upon you, ye shall never lose no blood, be ye never so sore wounded The scabbard is far more valuable than the sword because it prevents any blood loss, no matter how severe the wound. _Merlin explains the scabbard's magical property to Arthur._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxv - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters