Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 296 summary
Chapter 296 of 503 · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 296, Sir Tristram and his companions find a ship bearing the murdered King Hermance, whose letter asks a knight to avenge him against two brothers. Tristram keeps his commitment to Arthur’s tournament and gives the quest to Palamides, who promises to attend the tournament unless killed or maimed.
What happens
- Palamides proposes that the four companions fight together against everyone, but Tristram argues that courage needs wisdom against such numbers.
- The sailors require a promise of vengeance before allowing anyone to read the dead knight’s letter.
- Tristram takes the letter and learns that King Hermance accuses two brothers of murdering him and offers his lands for vengeance.
- Tristram declines the quest because of his tournament promise, and Palamides accepts it with a deadline of seven days.
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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Tristram explains why four knights should not simply challenge everyone. His caution separates courage from reckless confidence.
Quick check
Why does Tristram give the vengeance quest to Palamides?
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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
