The Faerie Queene · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Faerie Queene by Edmund Spenser.
Chapter 1
Dedication to the Edition of 1590
Edmund Spenser dedicates The Faerie Queene to Queen Elizabeth I, praising her as the most mighty and magnificent empress and expressing his humble service.
Chapter 2
Dedication to the Edition of 1596
Edmund Spenser dedicates his work to Queen Elizabeth I, praising her piety, virtue, and gracious governance, and expressing his humble wish that his labors may live with the eternity of her fame.
Chapter 3
Dedicatory Sonnets
A collection of dedicatory sonnets addressed to various patrons and figures, praising their virtues and seeking their favor for the poem.
Chapter 4
Sonnet I
The poet addresses Sir Christopher Hatton, Lord Chancellor of England, drawing a parallel between ancient Roman statesmen who balanced grave affairs with poetic leisure and Hatton's own heavy responsibilities. He suggests that Hatton, like Ennius and Virgil before him, may find respite in these idle rhymes, which may gain favor through their dedication to him.
Chapter 5
Sonnet II
The poet addresses Lord Burleigh, the Lord High Treasurer of England, acknowledging his immense responsibilities in governing the kingdom, comparing him to Atlas bearing the weight of the firmament. The poet humbly presents his idle rhymes, admitting they are the labor of lost time and unsteady wit, yet suggests that if their deeper sense is considered and the veil hiding their fairer parts is removed, they may not seem vain. He asks Lord Burleigh to receive them and overlook their faults with his grave judgment.
Chapter 6
Sonnet III
The poet dedicates the work to the Earl of Oxford, presenting his unripe poetic fruit and seeking protection from envy. He praises the Earl's noble ancestry and his love for the Heliconian muses.
Chapter 7
Sonnet IV
The poet addresses the Earl of Northumberland, asserting that the Muses have always been the nurses of nobility and the keepers of eternal fame for those who profess arms and chivalry. He argues that noble descendants are bound to embrace poetry, which glorifies them and grants them immortal life, and he sends his work to the Earl for its defense.
Chapter 8
Sonnet V
The poet dedicates this sonnet to the Earl of Cumberland, praising his courageous mind and flowering chivalry, and offering the work as a humble present meant to inspire honor and magnanimity through the example of past heroes.
Chapter 9
Sonnet VI
The poet addresses the Earl of Essex, praising his excellent virtues and expressing that while the current poem is humble and unworthy of his greatness, it does not diminish his worth. The poet vows that in future, with bolder inspiration, he will sing the Earl's heroic deeds in the greater context of the Faery Queene, and for now asks for his noble countenance and support for these initial labors.
Chapter 10
Sonnet VII
The poet dedicates this sonnet to the Earl of Ormond and Ossory, offering a simple taste of the wild fruit born of a savage soil, a land left nearly waste by long wars and overrun with brutish barbarism. He laments that in so fair a country there is no Parnassus or Helicon left for the sweet Muses, except where the Earl himself has built his brave mansion, where fair Graces and gentle Nymphs dwell. The poet praises the Earl's person as the seat of all goodly bounty and true honor, and humbly asks him to receive the fruit of a barren field as worthy.
Chapter 11
Sonnet VIII
The poet addresses the Lord High Admiral of England, praising his noble personage and deeds as an exemplar of ancient heroes. He commemorates the Admiral's victory over the Spanish Armada, comparing the Spanish forces to flying doves chased before him, and declares that his praises are engraved in this verse as an everlasting monument for posterity.
Chapter 12
Sonnet IX
The poet addresses the Lord of Hunsdon, praising his worthiness and noble deeds that have earned him a high place in the favor of Queen Elizabeth (the Faerie Queene). The Lord is commended for his role in pacifying the Northern rebels and quelling their disloyal power, an act that will be remembered forever through this verse.
Chapter 13
Sonnet X
The poet dedicates this sonnet to Lord Grey of Wilton, acknowledging him as the pillar and patron of his life and muse. He expresses his indebtedness and offers this humble work as a pledge of his enduring gratitude.
Chapter 14
Sonnet XI
The poet addresses the right honourable Lord of Buckhurst, acknowledging that his own rude rhyme cannot adequately memorialize the Lord's name, whose learned Muse has already written her own record in golden verse. He suggests the Lord is more fit to praise the Sovereign, but asks him to allow baser wit to spend its power, with the hope that the Lord's daintier pen may file and amend the poet's gross defaults and unadvised oversights, and to maintain the work against vain backbitings.
Chapter 15
Sonnet XII
The poet addresses Sir Francis Walsingham, comparing him to Maecenas, the patron of Virgil, and seeks his patronage for this humble Muse, promising that if granted, the poet may later sing his praises in grander verse.
Chapter 16
Sonnet XIII
The poet praises Sir John Norris, a noble and valiant captain, for his martial prowess and his support of the Muses, celebrating his victories in Belgium, France, Ireland, and Portugal, and urging him to favor the poet who has immortalized his name.
Chapter 17
Sonnet XIV
The poet addresses Sir Walter Raleigh, comparing him to the summer's nightingale and praising his poetic skill, while humbly offering his own rustic verses in praise of Raleigh's beloved Cynthia until Raleigh's own poem is revealed.
Chapter 18
Sonnet XV
The poet addresses the Countess of Pembroke, honoring her as the living image of a heroic spirit (likely Sir Philip Sidney) whose virtues have earned immortal bliss. He credits this spirit with first elevating his Muse and urges the Countess to accept this token for his sake and her own.
Chapter 19
Sonnet XVI
The poet addresses the most virtuous and beautiful Lady Carew, acknowledging that he cannot omit her from his work without incurring endless blame. He offers a humble tribute, recognizing that his simple verses cannot fully capture her glorious ornaments of heavenly grace and the tyranny she exercises over subdued hearts. He promises a more ample display of his good will when timely means permit.
Chapter 20
Sonnet XVII
The poet compares himself to the Chian painter who, when tasked with painting Venus in her perfect hue, requested to view all the fairest maidens. Similarly, the poet seeks to draw the true semblance of beauty's queen by observing the many beauties of the court, from each stealing some part of ornament. He finds no fairer crew than that brave court, where the world's pride seems gathered, and asks forgiveness for his cunning theft, since the ladies have lost nothing.
Chapter 21
A Letter to Sir Walter Raleigh
Spenser explains his overall intention for The Faerie Queene: to fashion a gentleman or noble person in virtuous and gentle discipline through a continued allegory. He outlines his method of using historical fiction, following Homer, Virgil, Ariosto, and Tasso, and describes how Prince Arthur represents Magnificence (the perfection of all virtues). He details the occasion of the first three knights' adventures: the Redcrosse Knight (Holiness), Sir Guyon (Temperance), and Britomart (Chastity). He also clarifies that the Fairy Queen represents glory in general and Queen Elizabeth in particular, with Belphoebe shadowing her virtuous beauty.
Chapter 22
The Faerie Queene
This excerpt from Edmund Spenser's The Faerie Queene introduces the poem's epic scope, its allegorical method, and its central figures: the Faerie Queene (Gloriana), the Redcrosse Knight (Holiness), and the Lady Una (Truth). The opening stanzas establish the poem's moral and religious framework, invoking the Muse and setting forth the quest of the Redcrosse Knight to slay the dragon and free Una's parents, while also introducing the deceptive Archimago and the false Duessa.
Chapter 23
Book I: The Legend of the Knight of the Red Cross, or of Holiness
The Redcrosse Knight, accompanied by Una, sets out on a quest given by Gloriana to slay a dragon. After a storm, they take shelter in a grove where the knight encounters and defeats the monster Error. Separated from Una by Archimago's deceit, the knight later falls into despair after drinking from an enchanted fountain and is captured by the giant Orgoglio. Prince Arthur rescues him, and they exchange gifts before parting. The knight then meets a terrified knight fleeing from Despair, who recounts his encounter with the figure of Despair.
Chapter 24
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 25
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 26
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 27
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 28
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 29
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 30
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 31
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 32
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 33
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 34
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 35
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 36
Book II: The Legend of Sir Guyon, or of Temperance
This chapter follows Sir Guyon's quest of temperance, featuring his encounter with Mammon in the underworld, the deception of Braggadocchio and Trompart by Archimago, and a confrontation between Prince Arthur and the brothers Pyrochles and Cymochles over the body of a fallen knight.
Chapter 37
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 38
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 39
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 40
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 41
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 42
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 43
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 44
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 45
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 46
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 47
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 48
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 49
Book III: The Legend of Britomartis, or of Chastity
The narrator invokes the theme of chastity, praising Queen Elizabeth as its living embodiment. Sir Guyon and Prince Arthur depart from Alma's castle, sending the captive Acrasia to Faery court. They encounter a knight bearing a lion shield; Guyon jousts and is unseated. Britomart, having learned of Artegall from the Redcrosse Knight, grows pensive and travels to the sea-coast, where she laments her love like a storm-tossed ship. At Castle Joyous, she is welcomed by the lustful Lady Malecasta, who attempts to seduce her. Britomart, disguised as a knight, resists Malecasta's advances and retires to her chamber.
Chapter 50
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 51
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 52
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 53
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 54
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 55
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 56
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 57
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 58
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 59
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 60
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 61
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 62
The Legend of Cambel and Triamond, or of Friendship
This chapter explores themes of friendship and enmity through the adventures of Cambell, Triamond, Blandamour, and Paridell. A dispute over the false Florimell arises, leading to a tournament for the girdle of Florimell. Britomart is awarded the prize for the fairest lady, but Artegall resents her victory. Amoret is later abducted by a savage creature while Britomart sleeps, and she finds herself imprisoned in a dark cave with another lamenting captive.
Chapter 63
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 64
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 65
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 66
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 67
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 68
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 69
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 70
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 71
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 72
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 73
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 74
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 75
Book V: The Legend of Artegall, or of Justice
The narrator laments the decline from the golden age to a stony one, where virtue has become vice and vice virtue, and the heavens themselves have wandered from their courses. He introduces Artegall, the champion of Justice, who was raised from infancy by the goddess Astraea in a cave, taught to weigh right and wrong, and given the sword Chrysaor. Artegall is sent by the Faery Queene to aid Irena, whose kingdom is usurped by the tyrant Grantorto. In Canto I, Artegall and his iron man Talus encounter a damsel named Samient, who complains that the Souldan's wife Adicia has mistreated her and sent two knights to dishonor her. Artegall and Prince Arthur devise a plan: Artegall disguises himself as one of the slain pagan knights to gain entry to the Souldan's court, while Arthur issues a formal defiance. The Souldan, furious, mounts a chariot armed with iron wheels and hooks, drawn by man-eating steeds, and rides out to meet Arthur in battle.
Chapter 76
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 77
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 78
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 79
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 80
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 81
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 82
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 83
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 84
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 85
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 86
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 87
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 88
Book VI: The Legend of Calidore, or of Courtesy
The narrator invokes the Muses to guide his exploration of courtesy, a virtue rooted in the mind and not in outward shows. Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, sets out on a quest. He meets Sir Artegall returning from his conquest, and later encounters a lady in distress, a savage man, and a discourteous knight named Crudor. Calidore defeats Crudor, forces him to abandon his evil custom, and reconciles him with Briana. He also meets young Tristram, who slays a discourteous knight and is knighted by Calidore. The chapter explores the nature of true courtesy versus false flattery, and Calidore's actions demonstrate his commitment to simple truth and honest dealing.
Chapter 89
Canto I
Sir Calidore, the most courteous knight of Faery court, encounters Sir Artegall returning from his quest and learns of the Blattant Beast, a monster bred of Cerberus and Chimaera that torments with venomous tongue. Calidore then rescues a squire bound to a tree, defeats the knight Crudor in combat, and compels him to marry Briana and reform his cruel ways, restoring peace and courtesy to the castle.
Chapter 90
Canto II
Sir Calidore encounters young Tristram, who has just slain a discourteous knight for mistreating his lady. Calidore praises Tristram's courteous nature and makes him his squire. He then finds another wounded knight and his grieving lady, learns the full story of the discourteous knight's villainy, and helps carry the wounded knight to a nearby castle for care.
Chapter 91
Canto III
Sir Calidore brings the wounded Aladine home to his father Aldus, where he meets Priscilla, Aladine's beloved. Meanwhile, Sir Calepine and Serena suffer from the discourteous treatment of Sir Turpine, who refuses them lodging and attacks Calepine. Calepine is wounded but eventually rescued by a chance encounter with another knight.
Chapter 92
Canto IV
Calepine is rescued from the discourteous knight Turpine by a Salvage Man, who tends to his wounds and those of his lady Serena. After recovering, Calepine, unarmed, saves an infant from a bear but becomes lost in the forest. He encounters the lamenting Matilde, wife of Sir Bruin, who reveals their lack of an heir.
Chapter 93
Canto V
The Salvage Man tends to Serena until Prince Arthur and Timias arrive. Arthur learns of Sir Turpine's discourtesy and vows revenge. The group seeks shelter at a hermitage, where the wounded Serena and Timias are left in the hermit's care while Arthur continues his journey.
Chapter 94
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 95
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 96
Canto VIII
Prince Arthur overcomes Disdaine and frees Mirabell from her penance. Meanwhile, Serena is captured by savage cannibals but is rescued by Sir Calepine.
Chapter 97
Canto IX
Sir Calidore, having abandoned his quest, adopts a shepherd's guise to woo Pastorella, who remains indifferent to his courtly advances. He stays with the old shepherd Meliboe, who extols the virtues of a simple, contented life free from ambition and courtly strife. Calidore is torn between his desire for Pastorella and the wisdom of Meliboe's philosophy.
Chapter 98
Canto X
Sir Calidore, distracted by love for Pastorella, abandons his quest for the Blatant Beast. While wandering, he stumbles upon Mount Acidale, where he witnesses a vision of the Graces dancing to the music of the shepherd Colin Clout. When Calidore steps forward, the vision vanishes, and Colin explains the allegorical meaning of the Graces and the central maiden, who represents Pastorella. Calidore regrets his intrusion and learns of the virtues of courtesy and grace.
Chapter 99
Canto XI
Pastorella is held captive by thieves, whose captain lusts after her. She feigns illness to avoid his advances. Merchants arrive to buy slaves, and the thieves argue over the spoils, leading to a violent conflict in which Meliboe is slain. Calidore rescues Pastorella, recovers the stolen flocks, and restores them to Coridon.
Chapter 100
Canto XII
Sir Calidore brings Pastorella to the Castle of Belgard, where she is reunited with her true parents, Sir Bellamoure and Claribell. The knight then pursues and subdues the Blatant Beast, muzzling and chaining it, though it later breaks free to roam the world again.
Chapter 101
Mutability: The Legend of Constancy
The Titaness Mutability challenges the authority of the gods, particularly Cynthia (the Moon), and claims sovereignty over heaven and earth. She disrupts the natural order, causing darkness and fear among the heavenly hosts. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after a confrontation, Mutability appeals to Nature for a judgment. The scene shifts to Arlo-hill in Ireland, where Nature presides over a grand assembly to hear Mutability's plea against Jove and the gods.
Chapter 102
Canto VI
Mutability, a Titaness descended from the old Titans, first subverts the natural order on earth, then ascends to the Moon to challenge Cynthia (the Moon goddess) for her throne. Jove sends Mercury to investigate, and after hearing the report, convenes the gods to decide how to deal with her presumption. The canto also recounts the myth of Arlo-hill and the nymph Molanna.
Chapter 103
Canto VII
The gods assemble on Arlo Hill to hear the case of Mutability, who argues that all things in the universe are subject to change and therefore she should rule. Nature delivers her judgment, declaring that while all things change, they are not altered from their first estate but rather work their own perfection, and that Change itself is ruled by a higher order. Mutability is silenced, Jove is confirmed in his imperial seat, and the assembly is dismissed.
Chapter 104
Canto VIII: Unperfite
The poet reflects on Mutability's claim to rule the heavens and concludes that she holds great sway over all earthly things. He contemplates the fleeting nature of worldly pride and recalls Nature's promise of a time when all change will cease and eternal rest will be established under God.
