Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 459 summary
Chapter 459 of 503 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 459, Queen Guenever accepts Sir Meliagrance’s submission and persuades Sir Launcelot to abandon immediate revenge, placing peace and her honor above further conflict. Launcelot visits the wounded knights, promises to meet the queen at a barred window that night, and asks Sir Lavaine to put aside the matter of his slain horse.
What happens
- Sir Meliagrance begs Queen Guenever for mercy and offers himself and his possessions if she restrains Sir Launcelot.
- Guenever accepts peace and persuades the furious Launcelot to respect her settlement despite his anger at Meliagrance’s conduct.
- Launcelot visits ten wounded knights, describes the attack on his horse, and joins their complaints while all restrain themselves for Guenever.
- The narrator explains that Launcelot receives the name Le Chevalier du Chariot for many days afterward.
- Launcelot promises to meet Guenever at her barred garden window that night after everyone falls asleep.
- Sir Lavaine arrives after finding Launcelot’s horse killed by arrows, but Launcelot postpones addressing the wrong.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Le Morte Darthur, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
Guenever explains why she accepts Meliagrance’s submission. Her concern for peace and reputation governs Launcelot’s response despite his desire for revenge.
Quick check
Why do Launcelot and the wounded knights hold back from revenge?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Le Morte Darthur, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
