Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter
Sir Gareth is Discovered and Escapes the Field explained
During a tournament, Sir Gareth is identified by heralds as Sir Gareth of Orkney when his helm is seen with his name in gold.
What happens
During a tournament, Sir Gareth is identified by heralds as Sir Gareth of Orkney when his helm is seen with his name in gold. He fights fiercely, striking down Sir Sagramore and his brother Sir Gawaine, then escapes the press. He retrieves his ring from his dwarf to hide his identity, sends the ring to Dame Lionesse with a message of fidelity, and seeks lodging as a storm descends.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Reputation
Gareth's identity is revealed, affecting his honor and reputation among the knights; he strives to maintain his concealment.
Love and Adultery
Gareth sends his ring to Dame Lionesse as a pledge of his love and fidelity, reinforcing their romantic bond.
Characters to notice
- Sir Gareth of Orkney
Identified by heralds during the tournament; fights and escapes; sends his ring to Dame Lionesse.
- Sir Gawaine
Struck down by Gareth; pursues him but loses him in the forest.
- Sir Sagramore le Desirous
Smote down by Gareth during the tournament.
- Dame Lionesse
Receives her ring back from Gareth via his dwarf; is assured of his fidelity.
- King Arthur
Orders heralds to spy on Gareth to learn his identity.
Key passages
“This helm is Sir Gareth of Orkney.”
The herald announces that the knight in yellow armor is Sir Gareth of Orkney.
Gareth's identity is publicly revealed during the tournament.
“O brother, said Sir Gawaine, I weened ye would not have stricken me.”
Gawaine expresses surprise that Gareth struck him in combat.
Gareth inadvertently fights his own brother.
“I pray her to be true and faithful to me as I will be to her.”
Gareth asks his dwarf to tell Dame Lionesse that he will remain loyal to her and expects the same from her.
Gareth's vow of fidelity to his lady.