Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 480 summary

What happens

1. Sir Gawaine severely wounds Sir Lionel, and a battle begins in which Sir Launcelot tries to spare Arthur’s men.
2. Sir Bors unhorses Arthur, but Launcelot prevents his killing, restores his horse, and asks him to end the fighting.
3. Arthur withdraws in tears, but fighting resumes after a night spent burying the dead and treating wounds.
4. Gawaine and Bors wound each other, and Launcelot rescues Bors before his companions persuade him to fight harder.
5. Launcelot’s forces gain the advantage, but he stops their attack out of pity and permits Arthur’s men to withdraw.
6. The Pope sends a cleric with orders that Arthur receive Queen Guenever and make peace, threatening England with interdict.

In this chapter

What to notice

Launcelot explains why he holds back despite the danger. His loyalty to Arthur conflicts with his responsibility to protect his own companions.

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