← All chapters

Le Morte d’Arthur · Chapter

How Arthur by the mean of Merlin gat Excalibur his sword of the Lady of the Lake explained

King Arthur, recovering from wounds with Merlin's aid, obtains the magical sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake.

What happens

King Arthur, recovering from wounds with Merlin's aid, obtains the magical sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake. Merlin advises Arthur to value the scabbard more than the sword, as it protects him from blood loss. They encounter Sir Pellinore, but Merlin's enchantment prevents Pellinore from seeing Arthur. They return to Carlion, where Arthur's knights rejoice at his safe return.

Read this chapter freeBook page

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.

SetupEscalationClimax
  • 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 reading

Themes in this chapter

  • Kingship and Governance

    Arthur's acquisition of Excalibur symbolizes his divine right and readiness to rule, while Merlin's counsel emphasizes wisdom in leadership.

  • Religious Quest and Redemption

    The hermit's healing and the mystical nature of Excalibur's bestowal evoke themes of spiritual guidance and providential aid.

Characters to notice

  • King Arthur

    Receives Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake; is advised by Merlin to keep the scabbard for its protective power.

  • Merlin

    Guides Arthur to the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur; uses craft to hide Arthur from Sir Pellinore.

  • King Pellinore

    Passes by Arthur on the road but does not see him due to Merlin's enchantment.

Key passages

  • “Lo! said Merlin, yonder is that sword that I spake of.”

    Merlin points out the sword he had promised Arthur.

    Merlin reveals the location of Excalibur.

  • “for the scabbard is worth ten of the swords, for whiles ye have the scabbard upon you, ye shall never lose no blood, be ye never so sore wounded”

    The scabbard is far more valuable than the sword because it prevents any blood loss, no matter how severe the wound.

    Merlin explains the scabbard's magical property to Arthur.

Continue in the readerAll chapters