The Water of the Wondrous Isles · Chapter
VII: Birdalone Cometh to Greenford, and Hears of the Wasting of the Castle of the Quest explained
Birdalone arrives in Greenford disguised as a squire and learns from townsmen and chapmen that the Castle of the Quest has been abandoned and that Arthur the Black Squire left the Red Hold three and a half years ago, possibly entering relig
What happens
Birdalone arrives in Greenford disguised as a squire and learns from townsmen and chapmen that the Castle of the Quest has been abandoned and that Arthur the Black Squire left the Red Hold three and a half years ago, possibly entering religion. She resolves to go to the Castle of the Quest despite the uncanny reports.
Themes in this chapter
Journey and Quest
Birdalone continues her journey, now seeking news of the Castle of the Quest and Arthur, facing uncertainty and the need to adapt her quest.
Identity and Transformation
Birdalone maintains her disguise as a squire, navigating social interactions while concealing her true identity and emotions.
Characters to notice
- Birdalone
Disguised as a squire, she arrives in Greenford and questions the townsmen about the Castle of the Quest and Arthur.
- Arthur the Black Squire
Mentioned as having been captain of the Red Hold, then departed alone three and a half years ago; possibly entered religion.
- Hugh the Green Knight
Mentioned as having left the Castle of the Quest three months after Arthur became captain, returning to his own country.
- Geoffrey of Lea
Mentioned as having taken over the Castle of the Quest after Hugh left, but soon departed as well.
- Master Peter
A chapman in the hall who speaks jovially of the Red Hold and the thriving land.
Key passages
“Sir of the sallet, ye shall be content with the peace in this land, and the thriving of its folk; the very villeins hereabout live as well as franklins in most lands, and the yeomen and vavassours are clad as if they were knights of a good lord's household.”
The townsman assures Birdalone that the land is peaceful and prosperous, with even the lowest classes living well.
This dialogue establishes the current state of the region and contrasts with the earlier unrest.
“Waste is that house now; there is none dwelleth there, save, it may be, now and again a wandering carle or carline abideth there a day or two.”
The Castle of the Quest is abandoned and only occasionally used by vagrants.
This revelation shocks Birdalone and forces her to reconsider her plans.