Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle · Chapter
Sir Richard explained
Blake is brought before Prince Gobred in the court of Nimmr, where his claims of being a Knight Templar from New York are met with suspicion, particularly from Sir Malud.
What happens
Blake is brought before Prince Gobred in the court of Nimmr, where his claims of being a Knight Templar from New York are met with suspicion, particularly from Sir Malud. Sir Richard vouches for Blake, and after a meal, they ride to the castle. Blake is astonished by the medieval setting and is eventually taken before Sir Richard, who acts as Keeper of the Gate, leading to a confrontation about Blake's identity and the reality of the Saracen siege.
Themes in this chapter
Racial and Cultural Conflict
The suspicion toward Blake as a potential Saracen spy and the medieval society's isolation from the outside world highlight cultural and racial tensions.
Honor and Chivalry
Sir Richard's vow to vouch for Blake and the knights' concern for honor and duty reflect the theme of chivalry.
Survival and Resilience
Blake's survival in the jungle and his efforts to navigate the hostile medieval environment underscore resilience.
Characters to notice
- James Hunter Blake
Blake is brought before Prince Gobred and later Sir Richard, insisting he is from New York and a Knight Templar, but his story is met with skepticism.
- Sir Richard
Sir Richard escorts Blake to the castle, vouches for him to Prince Gobred, and later acts as Keeper of the Gate, questioning Blake about his origins.
- Prince Gobred
Prince Gobred interrogates Blake about his origins and the supposed Saracen siege, showing suspicion but also curiosity.
- Sir Malud
Sir Malud accuses Blake of being a Saracen spy and argues against him, displaying hostility and jealousy.
- Princess Guinalda
Princess Guinalda defends Blake briefly, suggesting he might be a knight guarding pilgrims, and shows interest in him.
- Paul Bodkin
Paul Bodkin is a soldier who assists Sir Richard and confirms that there is no 'director' in Nimmr.
- Michel
Michel fetches a stool for Blake and later prepares horses for the ride to the castle.
Key passages
“I have come for days through the forest and seen no living man. No enemy surrounds you.”
Blake insists that there are no Saracen armies besieging Nimmr, contradicting the long-held belief of the inhabitants.
This statement challenges the foundational myth of Nimmr's isolation.
“I’ll tell the world I would!”
Blake enthusiastically agrees to enter Prince Gobred's service after seeing Princess Guinalda.
Blake's modern slang contrasts with the medieval setting, amusing Sir Richard.