# How does Le Morte d’Arthur develop the theme of Honor and Reputation?

> Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory

## Answer

Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory develops Honor and Reputation across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Knights are driven by the pursuit of worship (honor) and fear of shame, with actions like yielding in battle, avenging slights, and defending ladies' beauty directly tied to their social standing.

Caxton argues for Arthur's place among the Nine Worthies and stresses the importance of fame and renown achieved through chivalric deeds.

Arthur forgives those who delayed him, demonstrating magnanimity and the honorable conduct expected of a king.

The tourney awards honor to Sir Kay, Lucas, and Griflet, and the knights strive to prove their prowess.

## Evidence

- [preface-of-william-caxton](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/preface-of-william-caxton.md): Caxton argues for Arthur's place among the Nine Worthies and stresses the importance of fame and renown achieved through chivalric deeds.
- [vii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/vii.md): Arthur forgives those who delayed him, demonstrating magnanimity and the honorable conduct expected of a king.
- [xi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xi.md): The tourney awards honor to Sir Kay, Lucas, and Griflet, and the knights strive to prove their prowess.
- [xiv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xiv.md): Knights perform deeds of arms to gain honor, and the act of remounting fallen comrades is a chivalric duty.
- [xv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xv.md): Knights and kings strive to prove their valor and worship, such as King Bors being called one of the most worshipfullest men.
- [xvi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xvi.md): The eleven kings are praised as 'men of great worship' even by their enemies, highlighting the value placed on martial honor.
- [xxi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxi.md): Ulfius's public accusation and Igraine's defense center on the queen's honor and the legitimacy of Arthur's kingship.
- [xxiii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/le_morte_d_arthur_se/chapters/xxiii.md): Arthur chooses death over yielding as recreant, and the knight dismounts to fight on foot for the sake of worship.

## Links

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