Who Sir Tristram is
Sir Tristram is a skilled fighter, hunter, and musician who serves King Mark of Cornwall, his uncle. He also rides out on adventures and becomes a knight of the Round Table, where he forms a close friendship with Launcelot.
What Sir Tristram wants
Tristram's love for Isode pulls him away from the loyalty he owes to Mark. On the voyage from Ireland, he and Isode drink a potion that binds them in love. Their secret meetings and separations make his story a struggle between devotion to her and service to the king.
Sir Tristram and the others in the story
Mark sends Tristram to fetch Isode as his bride, yet becomes jealous and plots against the knight who serves him. Sir Palomides also loves Isode and competes with Tristram for her attention.
Launcelot is both Tristram's friend and a knight he sometimes faces in combat. Their bond gives friendship a place beside the love and rivalry that shape Tristram's adventures.
Questions
Who is Sir Tristram?
Sir Tristram is a knight of Cornwall whose talents extend from combat to hunting and music.
Why does Sir Tristram love Isode?
Tristram and Isode drink a love potion during their voyage from Ireland, binding them to each other.
How is Sir Tristram related to King Mark?
Tristram is King Mark's nephew and serves him, but his love for Isode strains that loyalty.