Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 59 summary
Chapter 59 of 503 · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 59, King Pellinore reaches Camelot and learns from Merlin that the woman he refuses to help is his daughter Eleine, whose death brings a prophecy of abandonment. King Arthur then establishes rules for his knights, requiring mercy, aid to women, and refusal of unjust fights.
What happens
- King Pellinore grieves over the lady’s severed head, reaches Camelot by noon, and swears to report his quest truthfully.
- Queen Guenever blames Pellinore for failing to save the lady, and he admits that his quest takes priority.
- Merlin identifies Eleine as Pellinore’s daughter and explains that she kills herself after Loraine le Savage murders her beloved.
- Merlin foretells that Pellinore’s most trusted friend abandons him in deadly distress as punishment for refusing help.
- King Arthur grants lands and requires his knights to reject murder, treason, cruelty, and unjust quarrels while protecting women.
- The Round Table knights swear to these rules and renew their promises each Pentecost.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The oath makes Arthur’s demands binding on every Round Table knight. It turns mercy, protection, and just conduct into shared obligations.
Quick check
What does Merlin reveal about Eleine?
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