Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter
Book XIX explained
Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever are accused of treason by Sir Meliagrance, leading to a trial by combat.
What happens
Sir Launcelot and Queen Guenever are accused of treason by Sir Meliagrance, leading to a trial by combat. Launcelot defeats Meliagrance, but the queen's honor is restored only after Launcelot's victory.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Sir Launcel…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Honor and Reputation
The chapter centers on defending Queen Guenever's honor through combat, highlighting the importance of reputation in Arthurian society.
- Betrayal and Treachery
Sir Meliagrance's false accusation of treason exemplifies betrayal within the court.
Characters to notice
- Sir Launcelot du Lake
Defends Queen Guenever's honor in a trial by combat against Sir Meliagrance.
- Queen Guenever
Accused of treason by Sir Meliagrance; her honor is defended by Launcelot.
- Sir Meliagrance
Falsely accuses Queen Guenever of treason and is defeated by Launcelot in combat.
- King Arthur
Presides over the trial and supports the judgment by combat.
Key passages
“Then Sir Launcelot said: 'My lord, I will take the battle upon me for the queen's sake, and I will prove that she is innocent.'”
Launcelot declares he will fight on behalf of the queen to prove her innocence.
Demonstrates Launcelot's loyalty and the chivalric duty to defend a lady's honor.
