# Sir Tristram de Liones — Le Morte d’Arthur character guide > Sir Tristram de Liones in Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Tristan, Tristram, young Tristram **First appearance:** 0004-i ## Snapshot A harper-knight of unmatched courtesy and prowess, whose secret visits to La Beale Isoud make him a marked man in his own kin's house. ## Who they are Tristram moves through Cornwall as both its greatest defender and its most endangered guest, bound to King Mark's court by oath and to Isoud by a love that cannot be spoken. His cousin Andred watches him night and day, and the trap that finally catches him naked abed shows how thin the line is between honor and betrayal. Even bound and condemned, he fights free with his bare hands, proving that his legend rests on both his sword and his refusal to die quietly. ## In the story ### [Preface of William Caxton](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/preface-of-william-caxton) Mentioned in the book summaries for Books Eight, Nine, and Ten. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/viii) Named by Merlin as the other knight who will fight the greatest battle. ### [How Sir Marhaus fought with the duke and his four sons and made them to yield them](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxv) Mentioned as having slain the giant Taulas, brother of Taulurd, when he was out of his mind. ### [The Return to Court and the Rise of New Knights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxviii) Fights and slays Sir Marhaus in an island battle, but is wounded and recovers at a nunnery. ### [Book V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/book-v) Central character of the chapter; his birth, knighthood, and adventures are detailed. ### [How King Arthur held a parliament at York, and how he ordained the realm should be governed in his absence](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iii) Mentioned as left with King Mark by Launcelot for the love of La Beale Isoud. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/ix) Mentioned alongside Launcelot and Lamorak as a knight of great prowess who would fail at the Pass Perilous. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiii) Mentioned as one of the three knights who bear the renown of knighthood. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiv) Mentioned by the Red Knight as one of the knights he would consider himself good enough for. ### [The Tournament at Castle Perilous](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvi) Joins the side of the castle knights, not yet a Knight of the Round Table. ### [How the Knights Bare Them in the Battle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxviii) A knight of the castle, he encounters Sir Bedivere and smites him down. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxix) Unhorses Sir Gawaine, inquires about Sir Gareth's identity, and later rides to help him. ### [Of the Great Royalty, and what officers were made at the feast of the wedding, and of the jousts at the feast](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxv) Jousted on the second day, overthrew forty knights; departed secretly with Sir Lamorak. ### [Book VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/book-viii) Central figure of the chapter; his birth, combat with Marhaus, love for Isoud, and conflicts with King Mark are detailed. ### [How Sir Tristram de Liones was born, and how his mother died at his birth, wherefore she named him Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/i) Born in this chapter; his mother dies at his birth and names him Tristram. ### [How the Stepmother of Sir Tristram Had Ordained Poison for to Have Poisoned Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/ii) Young Tristram, the sorrowful-born child, shows mercy by saving his stepmother from execution and reconciling her with King Meliodas. ### [How Sir Tristram was sent into France, and had one to govern him named Gouvernail, and how he learned to harp, hawk, and hunt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iii) Sent to France as a youth, learns language, arms, harping, and hunting; returns at eighteen. ### [How Sir Marhaus Came for Truage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iv) Young Tristram is wroth and ashamed that no Cornish knight will fight Sir Marhaus. ### [How Tristram Enterprised the Battle to Fight for the Truage of Cornwall](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/v) Young Tristram, son of King Meliodas, seeks knighthood to fight Sir Marhaus and defend Cornwall's honor. ### [How Sir Tristram arrived into the Island for to furnish the battle with Sir Marhaus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vi) Arrives at the island to battle Sir Marhaus; prepares his horse and armor; gives final instructions to Gouvernail. ### [How Sir Tristram Fought Against Sir Marhaus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vii) Newly knighted, fights Sir Marhaus to deliver Cornwall from truage. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/viii) Sorely wounded by Sir Marhaus's envenomed spear; sails to Ireland under the alias Tramtrist. ### [How Sir Tristram was put to the keeping of La Beale Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/ix) Disguised as Tramtrist, healed by La Beale Isoud, learns her to harp, develops love for her, and agrees to joust at the tournament despite his wound. ### [How Sir Tristram Won the Degree at a Tournament in Ireland](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/x) Defeats Sir Palomides in a tournament, wins La Beale Isoud's favor, and makes Hebes a knight. ### [How the queen espied that Sir Tristram had slain her brother Sir Marhaus by his sword, and in what jeopardy he was.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xi) Disguised as Tramtrist, he is discovered as the slayer of Sir Marhaus and nearly killed by the queen. ### [How Sir Tristram departed from the king and La Beale Isoud out of Ireland for to come into Cornwall](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xii) Reveals his true identity as Sir Tristram de Liones, son of King Meliodas, and explains his earlier alias Tramtrist. He takes leave of the Irish court and pledges eternal service to La Beale Isoud. ### [How Sir Tristram and King Mark hurted each other for the love of a knight's wife](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiii) Returns to Cornwall, visits his father, and becomes involved in a love affair with Segwarides' wife, leading to a violent confrontation with King Mark. ### [How Sir Tristram lay with the lady, and how her husband fought with Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiv) Lies with Segwarides' lady, fights and wounds Segwarides, then lodges secretly in Tintagil. ### [How Sir Bleoberis Demanded the Fairest Lady in King Mark's Court](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xv) Reproached by a lady for not defending the lady taken from court; later arms himself to pursue Sir Bleoberis. ### [How Sir Tristram fought with two knights of the Round Table](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvi) Defeats Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas in joust, asserting the honor of Cornish knights. ### [How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Bleoberis for a lady, and how the lady was put to choice to whom she would go](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvii) Challenges Bleoberis for the lady, fights him to a standstill, and reveals his identity and deeds. ### [How the lady forsook Sir Tristram and abode with Sir Bleoberis, and how she desired to go to her husband](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xviii) Is forsaken by the lady he loved, feels deceived and ashamed, resolves to be wary of love. ### [How King Mark sent Sir Tristram for La Beale Isoud toward Ireland, and how by fortune he arrived into England](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xix) Accepts the perilous mission to Ireland for his uncle King Mark, but is driven by a tempest to Camelot where he jousts and defeats two knights. ### [The Trial of King Anguish and the Rescue of the Child](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xx) Encountered a lady in distress and rode after a knight who stole a child intended for Sir Launcelot. ### [How Sir Tristram rescued a child from a knight, and how Gouvernail told him of King Anguish](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxi) Defeats Breuse Saunce Pité and later offers to fight for King Anguish of Ireland. ### [How Sir Tristram fought for Sir Anguish and overcame his adversary, and how his adversary would never yield him.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxii) Champions King Anguish, defeats Sir Blamore in single combat. ### [How Sir Blamore desired Tristram to slay him, and how Sir Tristram spared him, and how they took appointment.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiii) Defeats Sir Blamore in combat but spares him out of knightly mercy and respect for Sir Launcelot's blood. ### [How Sir Tristram demanded La Beale Isoud for King Mark, and how Sir Tristram and Isoud drank the love drink.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiv) Requests La Beale Isoud for King Mark, accidentally drinks the love potion with Isoud, and is taken prisoner at the Weeping Castle. ### [How Sir Tristram and Isoud were in prison, and how he fought for her beauty, and smote off another lady’s head.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxv) Imprisoned with Isoud, he challenges the castle's custom and beheads the lord's lady after proving Isoud's beauty. ### [How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Breunor, and at the last smote off his head](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvi) Fights and kills Sir Breunor in a two-hour battle, demonstrating his strength and skill. ### [How Sir Galahad fought with Sir Tristram, and how Sir Tristram yielded him and promised to fellowship with Launcelot](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvii) Fights Sir Galahad, yields to him, and promises to seek fellowship with Sir Launcelot du Lake. ### [How Sir Launcelot Rescued Sir Gawaine from Sir Carados, and Sir Tristram Departs for Cornwall](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxviii) Hears of Launcelot's deed and departs with La Beale Isoud for Cornwall. ### [Of the Wedding of King Mark to La Beale Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxix) Praised at the wedding feast; continues to love La Beale Isoud. ### [The Abduction of Queen Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxx) Absent while hunting; the king and others rely on him for rescue. ### [How Sir Tristram rode after Palamides, and how he found him and fought with him, and by the means of Isoud the battle ceased.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxi) Pursues Palamides, fights him for love of Isoud, and spares him at her request. ### [How Sir Tristram brought Queen Isoud home, and of the debate of King Mark and Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxii) Returns Queen Isoud to King Mark, defends himself against the king's attack, kills a knight, and later reconciles with Mark. ### [How Sir Lamorak jousted with thirty knights, and Sir Tristram at the request of King Mark smote his horse down](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxiii) Reluctantly jousts with Sir Lamorak at King Mark's request, striking down his horse, but refuses further combat out of honor. ### [XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxiv) Wroth at Lamorak's horn; captured with Isoud, escapes after killing ten knights. ### [How Sir Tristram was holpen by his men, and of Queen Isoud which was put in a lazar-cote, and how Tristram was hurt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxv) Rescued by his men, rescues Isoud from the lazar-cote, is shot with a poisoned arrow, and sails to Brittany for healing. ### [How Sir Tristram served in war King Howel of Brittany, and slew his adversary in the field](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxvi) Serves King Howel in war, slays Earl Grip, marries Isoud la Blanche Mains but remains chaste out of loyalty to La Beale Isoud. ### [How Sir Suppinabiles told Sir Tristram how he was defamed in the court of King Arthur, and of Sir Lamorak.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxvii) Grieved and ashamed upon hearing that Sir Launcelot has defamed him as a false knight. ### [How Sir Tristram and his wife arrived in Wales, and how he met there with Sir Lamorak](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxviii) Shipwrecked on the Isle of Servage with his wife and brother-in-law; reconciles with Sir Lamorak and proposes they fight the giant Nabon le Noire. ### [How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Nabon, and overcame him, and made Sir Segwarides lord of the isle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxix) Fights and slays Sir Nabon, then beheads his son; refuses lordship of the isle and gives it to Segwarides. ### [How Sir Lamorak Departed from Sir Tristram, and How He Met with Sir Frol, and After with Sir Launcelot](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xl) Mentioned as having slain Sir Nabon and freed the valley; Lamorak departs from him. ### [Book IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/book-ix) Central figure in this book, returning to Cornwall and engaging in adventures. ### [How La Cote Male Taile fought against an hundred knights, and how he escaped by the mean of a lady](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iv) Mentioned as one of the knights the castle's knights thought could match La Cote Male Taile's feat. ### [How Sir Launcelot came to the court and heard of La Cote Male Taile, and how he followed after him, and how La Cote Male Taile was prisoner](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/v) Sends a letter to Launcelot excusing himself of fleshly relations with Isoud la Blanche Mains and requesting friendship. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vii) Mentioned by the damosel as one of the two greatest knights, alongside Launcelot, for rescuing the black shield at Camelot. ### [How La Beale Isoud sent letters to Sir Tristram by her maid Bragwaine, and of divers adventures of Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/x) Receives letters from La Beale Isoud, secretly sails to Cornwall, and engages in a joust and foot combat with a mysterious knight. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xi) Meets and fights Sir Lamorak, then swears peace with him. ### [How Sir Palomides followed the Questing Beast, and smote down Sir Tristram and Sir Lamorak with one spear.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xii) Unhorsed by Palomides, tends to Sir Kehydius, and vows to meet Palomides again at the well to prove his knighthood. ### [How Sir Kay met with Sir Tristram, and after of the shame spoken of the knights of Cornwall, and how they jousted.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xv) Travels incognito, defends the honor of Cornish knights, defeats Sir Brandiles and Sir Tor in jousts, and reveals his identity. ### [How King Arthur was brought into the Forest Perilous, and how Sir Tristram saved his life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvi) Summoned by the Lady of the Lake to save King Arthur; slays two knights and defeats Sir Ector in a joust, keeping his identity secret. ### [How Sir Tristram came to La Beale Isoud, and how Kehydius began to love Beale Isoud, and of a letter that Tristram found](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvii) Returns to Cornwall and reunites with La Beale Isoud; discovers Kehydius's letters to Isoud and confronts them both. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xviii) Flees Tintagil, falls into madness, wanders naked in the forest, and lives with herdmen. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xix) Lives naked in the forest for half a year, souses Dagonet in a well, and later kills a squire with a sword. ### [The False Report of Tristram's Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xx) Falsely reported dead; wanders naked in the forest and later kills the giant Tauleas. ### [How King Mark found Sir Tristram naked, and made him to be borne home to Tintagil, and how he was there known by a brachet.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxi) Found naked in the forest after rescuing Sir Dinant; brought to Tintagil and recognized by the brachet. ### [How King Mark Banished Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxii) Banished from Cornwall for ten years; recounts his many deeds for King Mark. ### [How a damosel sought help to help Sir Launcelot against thirty knights, and how Sir Tristram fought with them](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiii) Fights thirty knights to rescue Sir Launcelot, slaying twelve and routing the rest. ### [How Sir Tristram and Sir Dinadan came to a lodging where they must joust with two knights.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiv) Leads the group, insists on upholding knightly honor, defeats multiple opponents in jousts and combat. ### [How Sir Tristram jousted with Sir Kay and Sir Sagramore le Desirous, and how Sir Gawaine turned Sir Tristram from Morgan le Fay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxv) Praised by Launcelot, defeats Pellinore, Kay, and Sagramore in jousts, and is nearly led into Morgan le Fay's trap. ### [How Sir Tristram and Sir Gawaine rode to have foughten with the thirty knights, but they durst not come out](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvi) Rides with Sir Gawaine, challenges the thirty knights, and later chases Sir Breuse Saunce Pité. ### [How Damosel Bragwaine Found Tristram Sleeping by a Well](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvii) Found sleeping by a well; receives letters from La Beale Isoud; plans to attend the tournament at the Castle of Maidens. ### [How Sir Tristram had a fall with Sir Palomides, and how Launcelot overthrew two knights.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxviii) Suffers a fall from Sir Palomides and is wroth and ashamed; seeks revenge. ### [How Sir Launcelot jousted with Palomides and overthrew him, and after he was assailed with twelve knights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxix) Observes the joust and predicts Launcelot will defeat Palomides. ### [The Knight with the Black Shield](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxx) Disguised with a black shield, he dominates the tournament and is awarded the prize. ### [How Sir Tristram returned against King Arthur's party because he saw Sir Palomides on that party](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxi) Fights for the King of Northgalis out of opposition to Sir Palomides, performs remarkable deeds in the tournament, and shows courtesy by defending the twenty knights of Launcelot's kin. ### [How Sir Tristram found Palomides by a well, and brought him with him to his lodging](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxii) Wins the tournament for the King of Northgalis, then secretly departs into the forest; later rescues and hosts Sir Palomides without revealing his identity. ### [How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Palomides, and how he jousted with King Arthur, and other feats](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxiii) Disguised with a black shield, he smites down Sir Palomides, jousts with King Arthur, and defeats eleven knights of King Ban's blood. ### [How Sir Launcelot hurt Sir Tristram, and how after Sir Tristram smote down Sir Palomides](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxiv) Wounded by Launcelot but recovers; defeats Palomides and Gaheris; honored by Launcelot as the true victor. ### [How the prize of the third day was given to Sir Launcelot, and Sir Launcelot gave it to Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxv) Praised by King Arthur and Sir Launcelot for his noble fighting; departs suddenly after being wounded by Launcelot. ### [How Palomides came to the castle where Sir Tristram was, and of the quest that Sir Launcelot and ten knights made for Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxvi) Recovering from his hurts at the old knight Sir Darras's manor; recognizes Sir Palomides. ### [How Sir Tristram, Sir Palomides, and Sir Dinadan were taken and put in prison](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxvii) Imprisoned by Sir Darras after being identified as the knight who killed his three sons; falls gravely ill and nearly despairs. ### [XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxix) Mentioned as the object of King Mark's oath and as a friend of Dinas the Seneschal. ### [XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xl) Reveals his identity to Sir Darras and secures the release of himself and his companions from prison. ### [How Sir Dinadan rescued a lady from Sir Breuse Saunce Pité, and how Sir Tristram received a shield of Morgan le Fay.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xli) Becomes a guest of Morgan le Fay, who detains him; agrees to bear a shield with a symbolic design to a tournament. ### [How Sir Tristram took with him the shield, and also how he slew the paramour of Morgan le Fay.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xlii) Takes leave of Queen Morgan le Fay, accepts the shield, and later slays Sir Hemison in combat. ### [XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xliii) Conceals his identity while discussing knightly prowess with his host, praising Sir Launcelot and his kin. ### [How Sir Tristram at a tournament bare the shield that Morgan le Fay delivered to him](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xliv) Bears the shield from Morgan le Fay and performs great deeds of arms at the tournament. ### [Book X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/book-x) Central figure in the ongoing narrative of love and adventure. ### [How Sir Tristram Jousted and Smote Down King Arthur](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/i) Jousts and wounds King Arthur, defeats Sir Uwaine, searches for Launcelot, and intervenes to aid a lone knight against nine. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/ii) Rescues his mortal enemy Sir Palomides, agrees to a duel, and is later unhorsed by a mysterious knight. ### [How Sir Tristram Sought a Strong Knight](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iii) Main protagonist of the chapter; seeks the strong knight who smote him down. ### [How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Sagramore le Desirous and Sir Dodinas le Savage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/iv) Defeats Sir Sagramore and Sir Dodinas in jousts; reveals his name and upcoming battle with Sir Palomides. ### [How Sir Tristram met at the peron with Sir Launcelot, and how they fought together unknown](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/v) Fights Sir Launcelot at the peron, then reconciles and rides to Camelot. ### [How Sir Launcelot brought Sir Tristram to the court, and of the great joy that the king and other made for the coming of Sir Tristram.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vi) Arrives at Arthur's court, explains his quest against Palomides, and is made a Knight of the Round Table. ### [How for the despite of Sir Tristram King Mark came with two knights into England, and how he slew one of the knights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vii) Though absent from the scene, his growing fame and suspected love for La Beale Isoud drive King Mark's plot. ### [How King Mark came to a fountain where he found Sir Lamorak complaining for the love of King Lot's wife](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/viii) Mentioned as the worshipful knight chased out of Cornwall by King Mark. ### [How King Mark and Sir Dinadan heard Sir Palomides making great sorrow and mourning for La Beale Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiv) Mentioned by Sir Palomides as the best knight who loves La Beale Isoud and is loved by her. ### [How King Mark had slain Sir Amant wrongfully to-fore King Arthur, and Sir Launcelot fetched King Mark to King Arthur.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xv) Grieves deeply for the slain knights Bersules and Amant. ### [How Sir Dinadan told Sir Palomides of the battle between Sir Launcelot and Sir Tristam](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvi) Mentioned as having fought Launcelot and now a knight of the Round Table. ### [The Tale of Sir Lamorak's Prowess and the Questing Beast Knight](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xx) Praises Sir Lamorak's valor and holds Sir Dinadan in high regard. ### [How King Arthur let do cry a jousts, and how Sir Lamorak came in, and overthrew Sir Gawaine and many other.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxi) Observes the jousting and identifies Sir Lamorak; later greets him warmly. ### [How King Arthur made King Mark to be accorded with Sir Tristram, and how they departed toward Cornwall.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxii) Agrees to return to Cornwall with King Mark, driven by love for La Beale Isoud. ### [How Sir Percivale was made knight of King Arthur, and how a dumb maid spake, and brought him to the Round Table](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiii) Departed from court with King Mark, leading to eight days of mourning among Arthur's knights. ### [How Sir Lamorak visited King Lot’s wife, and how Sir Gaheris slew her which was his own mother](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiv) Mentioned as a knight who would leave court if he knew of the treachery. ### [How King Arthur, the Queen, and Launcelot received letters out of Cornwall, and of the answer again.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvi) Sends letters via Fergus and the damosel; is in the castle of Tintagil; thanked Launcelot for his warning. ### [How Sir Launcelot was wroth with the letter that he received from King Mark, and of Dinadan which made a lay of King Mark.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxvii) Mentioned as King Mark's mortal enemy in the letter. ### [How Sir Tristram was hurt, and of a war made to King Mark; and of Sir Tristram how he promised to rescue him.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxviii) Sorely wounded from jousts, he is summoned by King Mark to defend Cornwall. He rests at Sir Dinas's castle, then later gathers ten of Arthur's knights and enters Tintagil Castle, slaying enemy knights. ### [How Sir Tristram overcame the battle, and how Elias desired a man to fight body for body.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxix) Leads the battle against Elias, burns the enemy ships, and performs great feats of arms. ### [How Sir Elias and Sir Tristram fought together for the truage, and how Sir Tristram slew Elias in the field](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxx) Volunteers to fight Elias despite being sore wounded and weary; defeats and slays Elias after remembering La Beale Isoud. ### [How at a great feast that King Mark made an harper came and sang the lay that Dinadan had made](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxi) Encourages the harper to sing Dinadan's lay before King Mark and later sends letters to Launcelot and Dinadan. ### [How King Mark slew by treason his brother Boudwin, for good service that he had done to him](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxii) Mourns the death of Prince Boudwin, whom he loved. ### [How it was told to King Mark of Sir Alisander, and how he would have slain Sir Sadok for saving his life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxv) Sends a letter to Alisander advising him to go to King Arthur's court and place himself under Sir Launcelot's guidance. ### [How Alisander met with Alice la Beale Pilgrim, and how he jousted with two knights; and after of him and of Sir Mordred.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxxix) Mentioned as a near cousin of Alisander le Orphelin. ### [How by Treason Sir Tristram Was Brought to a Tournament for to Have Been Slain, and How He Was Put in Prison](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/l) Disguised and sent to a tournament by King Mark, wins despite being severely hurt, then drugged and imprisoned by his uncle. ### [LI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/li) Imprisoned by King Mark, sees through forged papal letters, and is freed by Sir Percivale. ### [How Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud came unto England, and how Sir Launcelot brought them to Joyous Gard](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lii) Disguises himself at the tournament, overthrows fourteen knights, and is recognized by Launcelot. He is celebrated as the best hunter and horn-blower. ### [LIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/liii) Hunts armed on La Beale Isoud's advice; meets Breuse and Palomides at a well; learns of King Mark's imprisonment. ### [How Sir Tristram met with Sir Dinadan, and of their devices, and what he said to Sir Gawaine's brethren](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lv) Hunting and later confronts Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris for slaying a knight who praised Sir Launcelot. ### [How Sir Tristram smote down Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, and how Sir Dinadan was sent for by La Beale Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lvi) Defeats Sir Agravaine and Sir Gaheris, then reunites with La Beale Isoud at Joyous Gard. ### [LVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lvii) Disguises his strength, feigns cowardice, then reveals himself to Palomides and accepts his fealty. ### [How they approached the Castle Lonazep, and of other devices of the death of Sir Lamorak](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lviii) Expresses grief over Sir Lamorak's death and condemns the treachery of Gawaine and his brothers. ### [LIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lix) Discovers the ship with King Hermance's body and reads the letter; delegates the revenge quest to Palomides due to his prior tournament commitment. ### [LX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lx) Defeats the knight who accused him of fratricide and later jousts with the King with the Hundred Knights. ### [LXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxii) Mentioned by Palomides as one of the best knights who might avenge him if he falls. ### [Of the battle between Sir Palomides and the two brethren, and how the two brethren were slain](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxiv) Resides at Joyous Gard with La Beale Isoud; sends Dinadan to greet Palomides. ### [LXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxv) Leads the company toward Lonazep, allows Palomides to take on Galihodin's challenge, and spares Breuse Saunce Pité. ### [LXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxvi) Accompanies Sir Palomides and La Beale Isoud, then rides to Lonazep to gather tidings and overhears the opposing council. ### [LXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxvii) Arrives at the tournament in green armor, refuses to tell King Arthur his name, and later helps Sir Gareth after his joust. ### [LXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxviii) Leads the green-clad knights against King Arthur's party, performs mighty deeds of arms on a black horse, compared to a wood lion by King Arthur. ### [How Sir Tristram was unhorsed and smitten down by Sir Launcelot, and after that Sir Tristram smote down King Arthur](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxix) Fights as the Green Knight on a black horse, is unhorsed by Sir Launcelot, then receives a horse from the King of Northgalis and unseats King Arthur before retreating to disguise himself in red. ### [How Sir Tristram changed his harness and it was all red, and how he demeaned him, and how Sir Palomides slew Launcelot’s horse](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxx) Changes to red armor, aids Palomides and others, and is recognized by La Beale Isoud. ### [How Sir Launcelot said to Sir Palomides, and how the prize of that day was given unto Sir Palomides](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxi) Fights in red armor, performs strongly, and commands Sir Dinadan to fetch Queen La Beale Isoud. ### [How Sir Dinadan Provoked Sir Tristram to Do Well](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxii) Provoked by Dinadan, defends his honor and praises Launcelot's peerless knighthood. ### [How King Arthur and Sir Lancelot came to see La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides smote down King Arthur](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxiii) Rides with Queen Isoud, Sir Palomides, and Sir Gareth; recognizes Arthur and Launcelot, and rebukes Palomides for his unknightly behavior. ### [How the second day Palomides forsook Sir Tristram, and went to the contrary part against him](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxiv) Demonstrates superior knightly prowess, outshining Palomides on the second day. ### [LXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxv) Departs the field, awakens Dinadan, changes to black armor, and returns to battle, observed by Isoud and Palomides. ### [How Sir Palomides changed his shield and his armour for to hurt Sir Tristram, and how Sir Launcelot did to Sir Tristram.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxvi) Disguised as the black knight, fights valiantly against Palomides and Launcelot, ultimately recognized as the best knight of the day. ### [How Sir Tristram departed with La Beale Isoud, and how Palomides followed and excused him](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxvii) Confronts Palomides about his treachery during the tournament but forgives him. ### [How King Arthur and Sir Launcelot came unto their pavilions as they sat at supper, and of Sir Palomides.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxviii) Hosts King Arthur and Sir Launcelot at supper, explains his actions in the jousts, and pardons Sir Palomides. ### [How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides did the next day, and how King Arthur was unhorsed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxix) Arrives like thunder, unhorses Sir Kay and three others, and later unknowingly unhorses King Arthur. ### [How Sir Tristram turned to King Arthur’s side, and how Palomides would not.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxx) Decides to join King Arthur's side, performs valiantly in battle, and later escorts La Beale Isoud to Joyous Gard. ### [How Sir Bleoberis and Sir Ector Reported to Queen Guenever of the Beauty of La Beale Isoud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxi) Mentioned as hosting the knights and winning the second day of the tournament. ### [How Epinogris complained by a well, and how Sir Palomides came and found him, and of their both sorrowing.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxii) Mentioned as the best knight who loves La Beale Isoud and as Palomides' former companion, now his mortal enemy. ### [How Sir Palomides and Sir Safere conducted Sir Epinogris to his castle, and of other adventures](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxiv) Mentioned as the lord from whom Palomides departed, leading to his current predicament; Palomides sends him a message of forgiveness. ### [LXXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxv) Sets out to rescue Sir Palomides despite their quarrel. ### [How Sir Tristram and Launcelot, with Palomides, came to joyous Gard; and of Palomides and Sir Tristram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxvi) Hosts Launcelot at Joyous Gard, overhears Palomides' lament, and confronts him about his love for La Beale Isoud. ### [How There Was a Day Set Between Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides for to Fight, and How Sir Tristram Was Hurt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxvii) Challenges Palomides to a duel and is accidentally wounded by an archer while hunting. ### [How Sir Palomides kept his day to have foughten, but Sir Tristram might not come; and other things.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/lxxxviii) Lies wounded in bed at Joyous Gard, unable to fight Palomides; later recovers and seeks Palomides across the land. ### [How La Beale Isoud counselled Sir Tristram to go unto the court, to the great feast of Pentecost](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xi) Returns to Joyous Gard after two years of adventures; learns of Launcelot's ordeal and decides to attend the Pentecost feast. ### [How Sir Tristram departed unarmed and met with Sir Palomides](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xii) Departs unarmed from La Beale Isoud and confronts Sir Palomides, showing reckless courage and a sense of honor. ### [How Sir Tristram Got Him Harness and Overthrew Sir Palomides](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiii) Borrows armor from the wounded Sir Galleron and challenges Sir Palomides to battle to fulfill his vow of baptism. ### [How Sir Tristram and Sir Palomides Fought and Accorded](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiv) Fights Sir Palomides, spares him, and serves as his godfather at baptism. ### [How King Arthur Handled Sir Urre](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xi) Mentioned as having christened Sir Priamus; his tragic death by King Mark is recounted. ### [Of the counsel and advice that was taken by Sir Launcelot and his friends for to save the queen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vi) Referenced as a precedent for keeping a queen at Joyous Gard; his tragic death by King Mark is recalled. ### [Of the deliverance of the queen to the king by Sir Launcelot, and what language Sir Gawaine had to Sir Launcelot.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xv) Mentioned by Launcelot as a good knight he matched with and favored. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/characters/tristram - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/characters