# XXXIII explained — Le Morte d’Arthur

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

## What happens

Sir Gawaine and Sir Gareth unknowingly fight each other until the damosel Linet reveals their kinship, leading to a joyful reunion with King Arthur and their mother, Queen Morgawse.

## Themes in this chapter

### Honor and Reputation

Gawaine and Gareth both honor each other after the battle, each yielding the prize to the other.

### Kingship and Governance

King Arthur commands lodging and provisions for his knights, demonstrating his authority and care.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Gawaine

Fights Gareth unknowingly, then recognizes him and reconciles.

### Sir Gareth of Orkney

Fights Gawaine, learns his identity, and is reunited with family.

### King Arthur

Rejoices at the reunion of his nephews, swoons for gladness.

### Linet

Reveals the fighters' identities and facilitates the reunion.

### Dame Lionesse

Mentioned as not yet visiting Gareth; sent for by Arthur.

## Key lines

> Sir Gawaine, Sir Gawaine, leave thy fighting with thy brother Sir Gareth.

Linet calls out to Gawaine to stop fighting because Gareth is his brother.

_Key moment of recognition ending the combat._

> Alas, my fair brother, said Sir Gawaine, perdy I owe of right to worship you an ye were not my brother, for ye have worshipped King Arthur and all his court.

Gawaine praises Gareth for bringing honor to Arthur's court, even beyond what most knights have done.

_Gawaine acknowledges Gareth's achievements._

## Links

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