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Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 478 summary

Chapter 478 of 503 · 4 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 478, Sir Launcelot speaks from the castle walls, rejects King Arthur’s charges of betrayal, and asks him to accept Queen Guenever again. Sir Gawaine demands revenge for Sir Gareth, rejects Launcelot’s explanation that he fails to recognize the brothers, and makes reconciliation seem impossible.

What happens

  1. Sir Launcelot calls from the walls and warns King Arthur and Sir Gawaine that their siege brings disgrace rather than honor.
  2. Arthur challenges Launcelot to fight and accuses him of killing valued knights and taking Queen Guenever.
  3. Launcelot refuses to fight Arthur, defends his actions as necessary, and offers to prove Guenever’s faithfulness against other knights except Gawaine.
  4. Gawaine demands an explanation for Gareth’s death, and Launcelot says he does not recognize Gareth and Gaheris when he kills them.
  5. Gawaine vows lifelong war, while Launcelot identifies his hostility as the obstacle to regaining Arthur’s favor.
  6. Launcelot accuses Gawaine of wrongful killing; Gawaine admits killing Sir Lamorak, but Launcelot denies that he accomplishes it alone.

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In this chapter

ArthurLauncelotGueneverGawaine

What to notice

Launcelot identifies Gawaine’s hostility as the barrier to peace. The argument links a personal demand for revenge to the continuing siege.

Quick check

Why does Launcelot say he kills Gareth and Gaheris?

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