Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter
Book XVI explained
Sir Galahad arrives at King Arthur's court and sits in the Siege Perilous, fulfilling a prophecy.
What happens
Sir Galahad arrives at King Arthur's court and sits in the Siege Perilous, fulfilling a prophecy. He then departs on the quest for the Holy Grail, accompanied by Sir Percivale and Sir Bors, and they encounter various adventures and visions.
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
- Religious Quest and Redemption
The chapter marks the beginning of the Grail quest, a spiritual journey for redemption and divine grace.
Characters to notice
- Sir Galahad
Arrives at court, sits in the Siege Perilous, and begins the Grail quest.
- King Arthur
Hosts the feast at which Galahad appears and the Grail quest is initiated.
- Sir Percivale de Galis
Joins Galahad on the Grail quest.
- Sir Bors de Ganis
Joins Galahad on the Grail quest.
Key passages
“Then the king and all the knights were greatly astonished, and they all said, 'This is he that shall achieve the Holy Grail.'”
King Arthur and his knights recognized Galahad as the one destined to complete the Grail quest.
Galahad's arrival and the prophecy of his success.
