Le Morte Darthur, Chapter 88 summary
Chapter 88 of 503 · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 88, twelve ambassadors bring Lucius's demand for tribute and threaten war, but King Arthur protects them from angry knights and orders generous hospitality. He consults his lords, rejects payment, and argues that Britain's former rulers give their descendants a claim to the imperial title instead.
What happens
- Twelve elderly ambassadors enter Arthur's royal gathering with olive branches and deliver Lucius's demand for tribute.
- They claim that earlier British rulers paid Rome and threaten war if Arthur refuses.
- Young knights want to kill the ambassadors, but Arthur forbids harm and orders generous care for them.
- Arthur gathers his council, and Sir Cador of Cornwall welcomes the chance to gain honor through war.
- Arthur refuses tribute and cites British rulers who held imperial power as grounds for claiming the emperor's title.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Arthur states his refusal plainly. His response turns the council's attention from Rome's demand toward Britain's rival claim to imperial authority.
Quick check
What does Arthur order when young knights want to kill the ambassadors?
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