The Well at the World’s End · Chapter
XVII: Ralph Cometh to the House of Abundance explained
Ralph and Roger ride through a stony, then grassy land, crossing a river and entering a wood with an evil name.
What happens
Ralph and Roger ride through a stony, then grassy land, crossing a river and entering a wood with an evil name. They arrive at a white castle on a green mound, where an old woman lets them in. They eat in the hall, and Ralph is led to a fine chamber to sleep, while Roger stays below.
Themes in this chapter
Quest and Adventure
Ralph's journey to the Castle of Abundance is part of his larger quest, with hints of the Well at the World's End.
Home and Wandering
Ralph travels through unfamiliar lands, leaving behind his home at Upmeads, and finds temporary lodging at the castle.
Characters to notice
- Ralph of Upmeads
Rides with Roger, crosses the river, and arrives at the Castle of Abundance, where he is given a fine chamber.
- Roger
Guides Ralph through the wildwood and to the Castle of Abundance, where he arranges lodging.
- The Lady of Abundance
Mentioned as absent from the castle; the old woman serves in her stead.
Key passages
“For thence have folk sought ere now to the Well at the World’s End.”
People have gone from this place to seek the Well at the World's End.
Roger hints at the legendary quest associated with the castle.
“There is neither lord nor lady in the castle as now, nor belike will there be tomorrow morning, or rather, before noon on this day.”
The lord and lady are not here now, and likely won't be until after noon tomorrow.
Roger explains the absence of the castle's owners.