Simon the Coldheart · Chapter
XX: How He Was Sent for by the King explained
Simon is summoned to Bayeux by King Henry V, who appoints him Lieutenant and Warden of the Lands and Marches of Normandy, with Geoffrey of Malvallet and Alan of Montlice under him.
What happens
Simon is summoned to Bayeux by King Henry V, who appoints him Lieutenant and Warden of the Lands and Marches of Normandy, with Geoffrey of Malvallet and Alan of Montlice under him. The King also commands Simon to marry Lady Margaret of Belrémy, and suggests he make Belrémy his headquarters. Simon accepts the honor and expresses his determination to win Margaret's love.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Self-Making
Simon's rise to the position of Warden of Normandy demonstrates his self-made success through military prowess and the King's favor.
Love as Warfare
Simon's approach to winning Lady Margaret is framed as a challenge: 'a fighting maid... not easily won,' and he plans to take her by surprise to overcome her stubborn pride.
Honor and Loyalty
Simon's loyalty to King Henry is evident in his acceptance of the arduous task, and the King's trust in Simon is shown by the high command bestowed upon him.
Characters to notice
- Simon the Coldheart
Simon is summoned to Bayeux, appointed Warden of Normandy, and commanded to marry Lady Margaret. He defends Margaret's character and expresses his resolve to win her.
- King Henry V
Henry appoints Simon as Warden of Normandy, commands him to marry Lady Margaret, and suggests Belrémy as his headquarters. He shows amusement at Simon's love for Margaret.
- Alan of Montlice
Alan is present when Simon arrives in Bayeux, informs him of the King's summons, and later learns of Simon's appointment. He is to serve under Simon as a knight.
- Geoffrey of Malvallet
Geoffrey is named as one of the knights to serve under Simon in the new command. He is mentioned as having sent word about Belrémy being at peace.
- Lady Margaret of Belrémy
Margaret is the lady Simon is commanded to marry. Simon defends her as a brave lady, not a tigress, and notes her wilful and fierce nature.
Key passages
“It is my will. Further it is my will that ye espouse the Lady Margaret with all speed.”
The King commands Simon to marry Lady Margaret quickly.
Henry directly orders Simon to wed Margaret, emphasizing his authority over both their lives.
“She is no tigress, but a brave lady!”
Simon defends Margaret, saying she is courageous rather than ferocious.
Simon contradicts the King's characterization of Margaret, showing his protective and admiring view of her.
“I will make her. She is wilful and fierce, and swift with her dagger. It is a fighting maid that I will take to wife, not easily won. I would not have it otherwise.”
Simon asserts he will make Margaret kind, appreciating her fierce and independent nature.
Simon expresses his determination to win Margaret's love and his admiration for her spirited character.