Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter
Of the first war that King Arthur had, and how he won the field explained
King Arthur emerges from his tower with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sir Baudwin, Sir Kay, and Sir Brastias to confront the rebel kings.
What happens
King Arthur emerges from his tower with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sir Baudwin, Sir Kay, and Sir Brastias to confront the rebel kings. After harsh words, Arthur returns to arm himself and his knights. Merlin warns the kings but they dismiss him. Merlin then advises Arthur to fight with his ordinary sword until necessary, then draw Excalibur. Arthur attacks the kings' lodging, and his knights perform marvels. King Lot and others flank Arthur, unhorsing him, but his knights remount him. Drawing Excalibur, Arthur's sword shines like thirty torches, driving back the enemy. The commons of Carlion join the fray, and the rebel kings flee. Merlin counsels Arthur not to pursue further.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- 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
- Kingship and Governance
Arthur asserts his authority against rebellious kings, establishing his right to rule through battle.
- Violence and Vengeance
The chapter depicts fierce combat with many slain, as Arthur and his knights fight to subdue the rebel coalition.
Characters to notice
- King Arthur
Leads his knights against the rebel kings, draws Excalibur for the first time in battle, and wins the field.
- Merlin
Advises Arthur to hold back Excalibur until needed, warns the rebel kings, and counsels Arthur not to pursue.
- Sir Kay
Fights alongside Arthur, slaying enemies on the right and left.
- Sir Brastias
One of Arthur's most worshipful men, fights valiantly in the battle.
- King Lot of Lothian
Leads the rebel kings, breaks out on the back side, and smites down King Arthur.
- King Carados of Scotland
Joins King Lot in flanking Arthur from behind.
Key passages
“Then he drew his sword Excalibur, but it was so bright in his enemies’ eyes, that it gave light like thirty torches.”
Arthur unsheathed Excalibur, and its brilliance dazzled his foes as if thirty torches blazed at once.
Highlights the magical and awe-inspiring nature of Excalibur in Arthur's first battle.
“Be we well advised to be afeared of a dream-reader? said King Lot.”
King Lot mocked Merlin, asking if they should fear a mere interpreter of dreams.
Shows the rebel kings' disdain for Merlin's counsel.
