Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 142 summary
Chapter 142 of 503 · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 142, the queen of Orkney arrives at the feast and rebukes King Arthur and her sons for treating Sir Gareth as a kitchen servant. Arthur explains Gareth’s unusual requests and hidden rank, admits his regret, and insists that they must find the absent knight.
What happens
- The queen of Orkney arrives with attendants, and Sir Gawaine, Sir Agravaine, and Gaheris kneel to request her blessing.
- She condemns Gareth’s treatment in the kitchen, while Arthur and Gawaine say they do not recognize him.
- Arthur recounts Gareth’s request for food, followed a year afterward by requests for Linet’s adventure and knighthood from Sir Launcelot.
- The queen says she sends Gareth with weapons, money, and a horse; Arthur describes a dwarf bringing equipment when Gareth departs.
- She questions Sir Kay’s mockery, and Arthur urges her to rejoice in Gareth’s worth while they seek him.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Arthur shifts the discussion from blame over Gareth’s treatment to satisfaction in his demonstrated worth.
Quick check
Why does Arthur say many courtiers doubt Gareth’s noble birth?
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