The Book of Sir Tristram of Lyoness: Class Notes

An outline follows Sir Tristram, Iseult, and the knights in The Book of Sir Tristram of Lyoness.

By Rick Reed

3. La Cote Male Tayle

I. The story opens with the coming of La Cote Male Tayle to Camelot.

A. A well-built young man clad all in gold cloth except for a tattered coat comes to Arthur’s court and asks to be knighted.
B. He says he is Brewnor le Noyre and is of noble blood.
C. Kay declares he should be called La Cote Male Tayle, “the evil shapen coat.”
D. Brewnor explains that he wears the coat his father wore when he was hacked to death while he slept and that he will wear it until he has avenged that murder.
E. Lamerok compares Brewnor favorably to Launcelot; Gaheris concurs.
F. Arthur agrees to knight Brewnor the next day.
G. Brewnor saves Gwynevere from an escaped lion by beheading it while Arthur is off hunting.
H. Brewnor asks to be called by Kay’s epithet, La Cote Male Tayle.

II. The story turns to La Cote Male Tayle’s first adventure.

A. A young noblewoman bearing a black shield with a hand grasping a sword seeks a champion from Arthur’s court.
B. No one accepts.
C. Kay picks up the shield to examine it, but the lady says he is not fit for the quest.
D. He says he has no intention of going on it.
E. She accepts La Cote Male Tayle’s offer and warns him his skin will resemble his coat.
F. Maledysaunte begins the quest by rebuking La Cote Male Tayle for accompanying her.
G. Kay puts the court jester, Dagonet, up to jousting La Cote Male Tayle.
H. When La Cote Male Tayle defeats Dagonet, Maledysaunte calls him a fool for jousting with a fool.
I. Nevertheless, La Cote Male Tayle endures.
J. Sir Bleobris unhorses him but declines to fight on foot.
K. Maledysaunte calls him both fool and coward.
L. Some days later Palomides unhorses him.
M. Modred joins them and they reach Castle Orgulus.
N. Two knights challenge Modred and La Cote Male Tayle.
O. Modred is unhorsed.
P. La Cote Male Tayle is unhorsed but chases his opponent into the castle where one hundred knights surround him.
Q. A lady orders his horse removed and placed under guard.
R. Her taunting leads him to kill twelve knights and two guards.
S. Maledysaunte refuses to believe his story until a courier verifies it.
T. She hangs her head in shame.
U. Modred defends La Cote Male Tayle, noting his youth and that Bleobris and Palomides refused to fight him on foot.

III. Meanwhile at Camelot

A. Launcelot berates the knights for letting a novice go on such a quest.
B. He explains the shield’s history: Breuse sans Pité bore it until Tristram won it, then Blamoure returned it to Maledysaunte.
C. Launcelot sets out to follow La Cote Male Tayle.
D. When Launcelot catches up, Modred departs.
E. Launcelot criticizes Maledysaunte for abusing La Cote Male Tayle; she turns on him as well.
F. A noblewoman delivers a letter from Tristram explaining his marriage to Isode.
G. Launcelot departs to compose his reply.

IV. The Story of the Castle Pendragon

A. Outside the castle, La Cote Male Tayle overcomes one of six knights but is captured when the other five attack at once.
B. Launcelot pursues him.
C. Launcelot jousts Sir Neroveus, who tells of La Cote Male Tayle’s capture.
D. Launcelot kills or wounds the six knights outside the castle.
E. Inside, Sir Bryan of the Iles challenges and finally yields to Launcelot.
F. Bryan frees thirty knights and forty maidens.
G. A noblewoman reveals Launcelot saved them all.
H. The knights rejoice to have been defeated by one of such renown.
I. Maledysaunte is humiliated to learn Launcelot is the knight she ridiculed.
J. La Cote Male Tayle and Maledysaunte pursue Launcelot so she may apologize.
K. Launcelot is displeased his identity is revealed.
L. He demands Maledysaunte cease berating La Cote Male Tayle.
M. She explains she harangued him out of love and fear for his life.
N. Launcelot renames her Beaupansaunte.

V. The Story of Surluse

A. The three encounter a bridge guarded by knights and yeomen.
B. Though Launcelot starts forward, La Cote Male Tayle insists the quest is his.
C. On the far side he faces Sir Playne de Fors and Sir Playne de Amoris, forcing both to yield.
D. At the second bridge he fights the third brother, Sir Plenoryus, but collapses from exhaustion.
E. Plenoryus grants mercy and tends his wounds.
F. La Cote Male Tayle urges Plenoryus to challenge the knight at the first bridge but refuses to give his name.
G. Almost simultaneously Launcelot issues his own challenge.
H. Plenoryus yields to Launcelot.
I. At the castle Launcelot defeats the remaining brothers: Sir Pyllownes, Sir Pellogres, and Sir Pelaundris.
J. Launcelot releases the prisoners, including King Carados of Scotland.
K. Launcelot offers the castle to La Cote Male Tayle.
L. La Cote Male Tayle declines out of respect for Plenoryus and suggests he swear fealty to Arthur.
M. Launcelot orders Plenoryus and his brothers to go to Camelot at Pentecost.
N. Sir Kay and Sir Brandiles join them; all return to Camelot after healing.
O. Launcelot gives Castle Pendragon to La Cote Male Tayle and makes Sir Neroveus bailiff.
P. Arthur makes Plenoryus and Brewnor le Noyre knights of the Round Table.
Q. Brewnor marries Maledysaunte, now called Beauvivate.

1. Iseult the Fair

A. Tristram’s Parentage
- 1. Melyodas and Elizabeth
  - a. The action takes place after Arthur’s conquest of the Roman Empire.
  - b. Tristram’s parents are King Melyodas of Lyoness and Elizabeth, sister of King Mark.
  - c. Melyodas is taken captive by a sorceress before Tristram’s birth.
  - d. Elizabeth flees into the forest and gives birth prematurely.
  - e. She names her son Tristram because the name means “of sorrowful birth.”
  - f. Elizabeth dies of grief and fever.
  - g. Her attendant carries Tristram back to the castle.
  - h. Certain nobles seek to kill the infant but are persuaded to spare him.
  - i. Merlin frees Melyodas from captivity.
  - j. Melyodas returns the day after Elizabeth’s death.
  - k. He grieves for seven years before marrying the daughter of King Howell of Brittany.
B. Tristram’s Youth
- 1. His Stepmother’s Treachery
  - a. Tristram’s stepmother seeks to poison him so that her own children may inherit.
  - b. Her own child accidentally drinks the poison.
  - c. During a second attempt, Melyodas nearly drinks it himself.
  - d. His suspicions are aroused when she knocks the goblet from his hand.
  - e. Following her confession, Melyodas sentences her to death.
  - f. Tristram intercedes on her behalf.
  - g. Melyodas eventually forgives her because of Tristram’s persuasion.
C. Tristram’s Education
- 1. Training in France
  - a. Melyodas sends Tristram to France under Governayle’s care.
  - b. Tristram is no more than eleven years old.
  - c. After seven years, Tristram and Governayle travel to Cornwall.
  - d. At eighteen, Tristram returns to Lyoness.
- 2. Character Sketch
  - a. Tristram is large and handsome.
  - b. He excels at hunting, hawking, music, strategy, and arms.
  - c. His courtesy and harp-playing gain him universal affection.
D. The Dispute Between Cornwall and Ireland
- 1. The Tribute Crisis
  - a. Cornwall has failed to pay tribute to Ireland for seven years.
  - b. King Angwyshaunce sends Sir Marhaus to enforce Ireland’s claim.
  - c. King Mark cannot find a Cornish champion.
  - d. The nobles doubt even Launcelot would fight another Round Table knight.
  - e. Tristram secures his father’s blessing and volunteers.
- 2. Frances of France
  - a. Frances, daughter of King Faramon of France, loves Tristram.
  - b. She dies of grief when he rejects her love.
- 3. Tristram’s Knighthood
  - a. Tristram agrees to fight if Mark first knights him.
  - b. He instructs Governayle to recover his body if he dies honorably.
  - c. If he flees dishonorably, he must be denied Christian burial.
- 4. The Combat with Marhaus
  - a. The battle lasts more than half a day.
  - b. Marhaus draws first blood.
  - c. Tristram leaves a fragment of his sword in Marhaus’s skull.
  - d. Marhaus flees to his ships.
  - e. Tristram displays Marhaus’s arms at Camelot.
  - f. Marhaus dies in Ireland from his wounds.
  - g. His sister, the queen, preserves the sword fragment.
  - h. Mark’s physicians cannot cure Tristram because Marhaus’s spear was poisoned.
E. Tristram’s Healing in Ireland
- 1. The Search for a Cure
  - a. A healer declares the antidote exists only in the land where the poison originated.
  - b. Tristram travels secretly to Ireland.
  - c. His musical skill gains him entry to the Irish court.
  - d. He adopts the name Tramtrist of Lyoness.
- 2. Iseult the Fair
  - a. Iseult is Angwyshaunce’s daughter and a skilled physician.
  - b. She applies the proper antidote.
  - c. During his recovery she falls in love with him.
F. The Rivalry with Palomides
- 1. Palomides’ Love
  - a. Palomides, a Saracen knight, falls in love with Iseult.
  - b. He offers to convert to Christianity for her sake.
  - c. A bitter rivalry develops between him and Tristram.
- 2. The Tournament
  - a. Angwyshaunce announces a tournament.
  - b. The prize is the hand of the Lady of Laundis.
  - c. Iseult persuades Tristram to compete despite his weakness.
  - d. Tristram enters in disguise.
- 3. Palomides’ Success
  - a. Palomides defeats nine Round Table knights.
  - b. He earns the title “Knight with the Black Shield.”
- 4. Tristram’s Triumph
  - a. Iseult equips Tristram with white armor and a white horse.
  - b. He defeats Palomides decisively.
  - c. He knights Hebes le Renownes.
  - d. Later he forces Palomides to yield.
  - e. Palomides swears to abandon his pursuit of Iseult.
  - f. He agrees to bear no arms for a year and a day.
G. Discovery of Tristram’s Identity
- 1. The Queen’s Discovery
  - a. While Tristram bathes, the queen compares his sword to the fragment from Marhaus’s skull.
  - b. The pieces fit together exactly.
  - c. The queen attempts to kill him.
  - d. Hebes prevents the attack.
- 2. Tristram’s Confession
  - a. Angwyshaunce questions him.
  - b. Tristram admits killing Marhaus.
  - c. Angwyshaunce acknowledges the justice of the combat.
- 3. The Lovers’ Vows
  - a. Tristram promises always to defend Iseult.
  - b. Iseult vows not to marry without his consent for seven years.
  - c. They exchange rings.
  - d. Tristram returns to Cornwall and Lyoness.
H. Tristram and Mark’s First Quarrel
- 1. Segwarydes’ Wife
  - a. Mark and Tristram love the same married woman.
  - b. Jealousy develops between them.
  - c. Tristram defeats Mark and two companions in an ambush.
- 2. Exposure
  - a. Tristram leaves blood on his lover’s sheets because of a chest wound.
  - b. Segwarydes forces his wife to reveal her lover.
  - c. He challenges Tristram.
- 3. Consequences
  - a. Tristram reluctantly fights Segwarydes.
  - b. Mark is ashamed of his treachery.
  - c. Tristram is ashamed of his adultery.
  - d. Segwarydes is ashamed of his fear.
  - e. Mark and Tristram outwardly reconcile but inwardly cease loving one another.
I. Bleobris de Ganys
- 1. The Challenge
  - a. Bleobris selects Segwarydes’ wife as his paramour.
  - b. Segwarydes pursues him.
- 2. Tristram’s Encounters with Round Table Knights
  - a. Tristram encounters Sagramour and Dodynas.
  - b. Sagramour claims Cornish knights lack valor.
  - c. Tristram defeats both knights decisively.
- 3. Resolution
  - a. Bleobris reveals himself as Launcelot’s cousin.
  - b. Tristram ends the quarrel.
  - c. The lady repeatedly rebukes Tristram.
  - d. Tristram resolves to choose women more carefully.
J. Winning Iseult for King Mark
- 1. Mark’s Scheme
  - a. Mark orders Tristram to obtain Iseult’s hand for him.
  - b. Tristram accepts because of loyalty and love of adventure.
- 2. Adventures on the Journey
  - a. Tristram defeats Ector de Marys and Morganoure.
  - b. He rescues a kidnapped child from Breuse Sans Pité.
- 3. Champion of Angwyshaunce
  - a. Angwyshaunce faces trial at Camelot.
  - b. Tristram agrees to serve as his champion.
  - c. He defeats Blamoure.
  - d. The feud ends in reconciliation.
  - e. Launcelot develops esteem for Tristram.
- 4. Iseult’s Betrothal
  - a. Angwyshaunce grants Iseult to Mark.
  - b. Tristram admits he betrays his own heart.
  - c. Iseult asks that Brangwayne accompany her.
K. The Love Potion
- 1. The Queen’s Gift
  - a. Iseult’s mother gives Brangwayne a love potion.
  - b. It is intended for Iseult and Mark on their wedding night.
- 2. The Mistake
  - a. Tristram and Iseult accidentally drink the potion.
  - b. Their love becomes inseparable and can end only in death.
L. Castle Pleur
- 1. Sir Brewnor’s Custom
  - a. Brewnor declares that Iseult will be compared to his wife.
  - b. The less beautiful woman must die.
  - c. Iseult is judged the fairest.
- 2. Tristram’s Victory
  - a. Tristram beheads Sir Brewnor.
  - b. The narrator observes that Tristram is stronger than Launcelot, though Launcelot possesses greater endurance.
- 3. Galahalte the High Prince
  - a. Galahalte seeks vengeance.
  - b. He and Tristram fight for half a day.
  - c. The King of the Hundred Knights joins the conflict.
  - d. Galahalte persuades Tristram to seek Launcelot.
M. The Marriage of Mark and Iseult
- 1. Brangwayne’s Peril
  - a. Jealous ladies bind Brangwayne to a tree.
  - b. Palomides rescues her.
- 2. Palomides’ Demand
  - a. Palomides requires Iseult to fulfill a promise.
  - b. Mark insists she comply.
  - c. Palomides claims Iseult herself.
- 3. Tristram’s Intervention
  - a. Lambegus fails to rescue her.
  - b. Adtherpe shelters her.
  - c. Tristram pursues Palomides.
  - d. The rivals fight for two hours.
- 4. Iseult’s Judgment
  - a. Iseult halts the combat.
  - b. Palomides must never remain in the same country with her.
  - c. He must tell Gwynevere that only four true lovers exist: Launcelot and Gwynevere; Tristram and Iseult.
N. Andret’s Jealousy
- 1. The Exposure
  - a. Andret reports seeing Tristram and Iseult together.
  - b. Mark attacks Tristram.
  - c. Tristram disarms him.
- 2. Forest Warfare
  - a. Tristram retreats to the forest.
  - b. He kills or ambushes many of Mark’s knights.
  - c. He sends one knight’s severed head back to Mark.
- 3. Reconciliation
  - a. Dynas warns Mark against further hostility.
  - b. Mark and Tristram make peace.
O. Lamerok and the Testing Horn
- 1. Lamerok’s Arrival
  - a. Lamerok defeats thirty of Mark’s knights.
  - b. Tristram declines to exploit a weary opponent.
  - c. Lamerok departs with Dryaunte.
- 2. Morgan le Fey’s Horn
  - a. A magical horn exposes adulterous women.
  - b. One hundred women drink from it.
  - c. Only four succeed without spilling.
  - d. Mark nearly condemns the others.
  - e. His advisors persuade him otherwise.
P. Andret’s Second Betrayal
- 1. Capture of the Lovers
  - a. Andret discovers Tristram and Iseult together.
  - b. Both are imprisoned separately.
- 2. Escape
  - a. Tristram kills ten guards and escapes through a chapel window.
  - b. Governayle and Tristram’s friends rescue him.
  - c. He frees Iseult from a lepers’ hut.
- 3. Life in the Forest
  - a. The lovers live together in the forest.
  - b. A knight wounds Tristram with a poisoned arrow.
  - c. Tristram kills the assailant.
Q. Isode of the Fair Hands
- 1. The Journey to Brittany
  - a. Iseult sends Tristram to King Howell.
  - b. Only Isode of the Fair Hands can heal him.
- 2. The Siege
  - a. Earl Grype besieges Howell’s castle.
  - b. Tristram takes command of the defense.
  - c. He kills one hundred knights including Earl Grype.
  - d. Howell offers him half his kingdom.
- 3. Marriage
  - a. Howell proposes a marriage between Tristram and Isode.
  - b. Tristram agrees.
  - c. On his wedding night he remembers Iseult.
  - d. He embraces Isode but consummates nothing.
R. Aftermath
- 1. News Reaches Camelot
  - a. Sir Suppynabyles reports the marriage.
- 2. Launcelot’s Judgment
  - a. Launcelot condemns Tristram for abandoning Iseult.
  - b. He declares Tristram his mortal enemy.
- 3. Gwynevere’s Consolation
  - a. Iseult writes to Gwynevere in distress.
  - b. Gwynevere advises patience.
  - c. She argues that noble knights often return to their first and truest love.

2. Sir Lamerok de Galys

A. Lamerok on the Ile of Servage
- 1. Shipwreck and Arrival
  - a. Following the episode of the drinking horn, Lamerok sails for Camelot.
  - b. A storm shipwrecks him on the Ile of Servage in North Wales.
  - c. His entire crew perishes.
  - d. The region is ruled by Sir Nabon le Noyre, a giant and enemy of Arthur.
  - e. Nabon has slain several Round Table knights, including Sir Nanowne le Petyte, Lamerok’s cousin.
  - f. Lamerok resolves to avenge his cousin.
- 2. Tristram’s Arrival
  - a. Tristram, Isode, and Keyhydyns are also shipwrecked on the same shore.
  - b. Isode is injured.
  - c. They encounter Sir Segwarydes and a noblewoman.
  - d. Segwarydes admits that although he ought to hate Tristram, he cannot despise so noble a knight because of an unfaithful wife.
  - e. Segwarydes leads them to a nearby castle.
- 3. The Meeting Between Tristram and Lamerok
  - a. The lady of the castle relates the story of Nabon le Noyre.
  - b. A fisherman reports the arrival of a knight of Arthur’s court.
  - c. Lamerok arrives disguised in a fisherman’s clothing.
  - d. Tristram immediately recognizes Lamerok.
  - e. Lamerok does not recognize Tristram and suspects he may be Nabon.
  - f. Each demands the other’s identity.
  - g. Lamerok identifies himself as a knight of the Round Table and son of King Pellinore.
  - h. Lamerok explains that he sent the testing horn to Mark’s court because he would not send it to Arthur’s.
  - i. He implies that Mark’s court is inferior to Camelot.
  - j. Tristram argues that little came of the affair and proposes they join forces against Nabon.
  - k. Lamerok acknowledges Tristram’s gentility and worth.
B. The Tournament of Nabon le Noyre
- 1. The Tournament Begins
  - a. Nabon holds a tournament to celebrate his son’s knighthood.
  - b. The contest pits knights of Logres against knights of West Britain.
  - c. On the first day, Lamerok defeats nearly all five hundred participating knights.
- 2. Nabon’s Challenge
  - a. Nabon becomes curious about the unknown champion.
  - b. He challenges the exhausted Lamerok to a joust.
  - c. Lamerok accepts despite his weariness.
  - d. Nabon destroys Lamerok’s horse.
  - e. The struggle continues on foot until Lamerok weakens.
- 3. Tristram Takes Lamerok’s Place
  - a. Nabon offers mercy if one of Lamerok’s companions will take his place.
  - b. Tristram volunteers.
  - c. Nabon is delighted when he learns Tristram’s identity.
  - d. Aside from Launcelot, Nabon has long desired to test himself against Tristram.
- 4. Defeat of Nabon
  - a. Tristram kills Nabon.
  - b. He immediately beheads Nabon’s son.
  - c. The people offer Tristram lordship over the Ile of Servage.
  - d. Tristram declares that Lamerok deserves the honor more.
  - e. Lamerok insists the honor belongs to Tristram.
- 5. Reward for Segwarydes
  - a. Tristram and Lamerok award the island to Segwarydes.
  - b. Segwarydes frees all prisoners.
  - c. He returns to Cornwall to tell the tale.
  - d. Iseult secretly weeps when she hears of Tristram’s adventures with Isode.
  - e. Isode returns to Brittany and reports the events to King Howell.
C. Lamerok’s Journey Toward Camelot
- 1. The Monastery
  - a. Lamerok reaches a monastery.
  - b. He recounts the adventure against Nabon.
  - c. The monks praise Tristram for his valor and generosity.
- 2. Rescue of an Oppressed Knight
  - a. Lamerok encounters a knight attacked by four others.
  - b. The attackers accuse their victim of villainy.
  - c. They refuse to allow him fair combat.
  - d. They also disparage King Arthur.
  - e. Lamerok kills two of the attackers.
  - f. The remaining two flee.
- 3. Sir Froll of the Outer Isles
  - a. The rescued knight identifies himself as Sir Froll of the Outer Isles.
  - b. Lamerok and Froll continue their journey together.
D. The White Knight
- 1. Froll’s Challenge
  - a. Lamerok and Froll encounter a knight in white armor.
  - b. Froll insists on challenging him because the knight defeated him previously.
  - c. Lamerok advises against the challenge.
  - d. Froll reveals that he initiated the earlier encounter as well.
- 2. Defeat of Froll
  - a. The White Knight defeats Froll again.
  - b. Lamerok rides after the victor and asks his identity.
- 3. Revelation of Launcelot
  - a. The White Knight agrees to reveal his name if Lamerok promises secrecy.
  - b. The knight proves to be Launcelot.
  - c. Lamerok offers his service.
  - d. Launcelot declines, saying that his quest must be completed alone.
  - e. Lamerok honors his promise and refuses to reveal Launcelot’s identity.
  - f. Froll departs in frustration.
E. Lamerok, Gawain, and Bellyaunce the Proud
- 1. Encounter with Gawain
  - a. Lamerok observes Sir Gawain carrying off a noblewoman.
  - b. The lady had been watching over a sleeping knight beside a well.
  - c. Lamerok challenges Gawain.
  - d. He refrains from immediately fighting Arthur’s nephew because he does not know the circumstances.
- 2. The Sleeping Knight
  - a. The sleeping knight awakens.
  - b. He defeats Gawain.
  - c. Lamerok considers it his duty as a Round Table knight to avenge Gawain’s defeat.
  - d. Lamerok challenges and kills the knight.
- 3. Arrival of Bellyaunce
  - a. The noblewoman seeks out the dead knight’s brother, Sir Bellyaunce the Proud.
  - b. Bellyaunce identifies the slain knight as Sir Froll.
  - c. Bellyaunce claims that Froll was a better knight than Lamerok.
  - d. Lamerok points out that the outcome of their combats suggests otherwise.
- 4. Combat Between Lamerok and Bellyaunce
  - a. The two knights fight for two hours.
  - b. During the struggle, Lamerok reveals his identity.
  - c. Bellyaunce explains that he once saved Lamerok’s life at the cost of his own sons.
- 5. Lamerok’s Nobility
  - a. Because he owes Bellyaunce his life, Lamerok immediately yields.
  - b. He asks forgiveness.
  - c. Bellyaunce refuses to stop fighting.
  - d. The combat continues until Bellyaunce collapses from exhaustion.
  - e. Lamerok yields a second time despite holding the advantage.
  - f. Bellyaunce admits he would not have shown such generosity himself.
  - g. He nevertheless praises Lamerok’s nobility and courtesy.
- 6. Return to Camelot
  - a. Lamerok tends Bellyaunce’s wounds.
  - b. He then resumes his journey and returns to Camelot.

4. Sir Tristram’s Madness and Exile

A. The summons from Brittany
- 1. Letters from Iseult
  - a. Brangwayne delivers letters from Iseult begging Tristram to bring Isode to Tintagil.
  - b. Keyhydyns agrees to accompany them with Brangwayne and Governayle.
- 2. The storm and landfall
  - a. Their ship is blown off course by a storm.
  - b. They run aground in West Britain near the Forest Perelous.
B. The adventure in the Forest Perelous
- 1. Tristram’s instructions
  - a. Tristram orders Governayle to wait ten days before proceeding to Cornwall.
- 2. The knight by the well
  - a. They encounter a powerful knight and his squire with a horse laden with spears.
  - b. Keyhydyns jousts first and is unhorsed.
  - c. Tristram is unhorsed but challenges the knight on foot.
  - d. The knight reveals himself as Lamerok.
- 3. The vow and the reconciliation
  - a. Tristram recalls the testing horn incident and vows to fight Lamerok to the death.
  - b. Lamerok reminds him of their words on the Ile de Servage.
  - c. They fight to exhaustion and both yield.
  - d. Lamerok proposes friendship.
- 4. The arrival of Palomides
  - a. Sir Palomides appears pursuing the Questing Beast.
  - b. He jousts with both knights and overthrows both.
  - c. Both resent him for refusing to fight on foot.
- 5. The parting at the stone cross
  - a. They leave Keyhydyns with a forester.
  - b. Tristram asks Lamerok to deliver his challenge to Palomides.
  - c. They part ways.
C. The story shifts to Lamerok
- 1. The chapel and Mellyagraunce
  - a. Lamerok overhears Sir Mellyagraunce lamenting his love for Gwynevere.
- 2. The ambush against Launcelot
  - a. Two knights lie in wait to ambush Launcelot.
  - b. Lamerok meets Launcelot, offers service, is declined.
  - c. He returns to the ambushers, calls them cowards.
- 3. The dispute over the fairest queen
  - a. Mellyagraunce asserts Gwynevere is fairest.
  - b. Lamerok asserts Queen Margawse is fairest.
  - c. Launcelot and Bleobris intervene.
  - d. Lamerok admits reluctance to fight knights better than he.
- 4. Arthur’s challenge
  - a. Arthur appears, challenges Lamerok, unhorses him.
  - b. Arthur refuses to fight on foot and rides away unidentified.
  - c. Lamerok is furious.
D. The story returns to Tristram
- 1. Encounter with Kay
  - a. Kay asserts Cornish knights have poor reputations.
  - b. Tristram replies that Kay is a fine knight with a venomous tongue.
- 2. The bridge encounter
  - a. They meet Sir Torre and Sir Brandiles.
  - b. Kay jousts and is unhorsed.
  - c. All four lodge together.
- 3. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram defeats Brandiles and Torre the next morning.
  - b. Kay pursues Tristram to speak with him.
  - c. Kay and Brandiles beg to know his identity.
  - d. They praise him as “the most loved of the fellows of the Round Table.”
- 4. Tristram’s humility
  - a. He says he has “not yet proven myself worthy of your fellowship.”
  - b. They part company.
E. The story shifts to King Arthur
- 1. Aunowre’s deception
  - a. Arthur comes to the Forest Perelous at the request of Aunowre, a sorceress.
  - b. She loves him; he refuses her; she vows revenge.
- 2. Nyneve’s intervention
  - a. Nyneve, Lady of the Lake, follows Arthur.
  - b. She seeks Tristram (or Launcelot) to protect Arthur.
- 3. The rescue
  - a. Nyneve and Tristram find two knights and Aunowre about to behead Arthur.
  - b. Tristram kills the knights; Aunowre flees.
  - c. Tristram catches and beheads her.
  - d. Nyneve strings the head to her saddle.
- 4. Concealment of identity
  - a. Tristram begs Nyneve to keep his identity secret.
  - b. He defeats Ector de Marys but still conceals his name.
- 5. Reunion with Lamerok
  - a. Tristram and Lamerok meet by a well.
  - b. They retrieve Keyhydyns and sail to Cornwall.
F. The scene shifts to Tintagil
- 1. Iseult’s joy
  - a. Brangwayne and Dynas tell Iseult Tristram has returned; she faints.
- 2. Keyhydyns’ fatal love
  - a. Keyhydyns falls in love with Iseult.
  - b. He writes passionate letters; she returns them.
  - c. Tristram discovers the letters and challenges him.
- 3. Tristram’s confession
  - a. He says he married Isode only out of gratitude.
  - b. He left her a maid.
  - c. He abandoned Isode and lives secretly in Cornwall for Iseult.
- 4. Keyhydyns’ fall
  - a. Iseult faints.
  - b. Keyhydyns jumps from a window, landing near Mark.
  - c. He lies to Mark about the fall.
- 5. Tristram’s departure
  - a. Tristram arms himself expecting exposure.
  - b. Sir Gyngalyn charges him; Tristram kills the horse.
  - c. Gyngalyn cannot identify him.
G. Tristram’s madness
- 1. The forest collapse
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Fergus, laments, faints.
  - b. Fergus seeks news of Iseult.
- 2. The noblewoman’s tale
  - a. A noblewoman seeks Tristram on Lamerok’s behalf.
  - b. She tends Tristram; Iseult lies sick with grief.
- 3. Tristram’s wildness
  - a. Her efforts drive Tristram wilder; he flees deeper into the forest.
- 4. The castle refuge
  - a. The lady of the castle offers hospitality.
  - b. She praises Tristram as the greatest harpist.
- 5. Herdsmen and degradation
  - a. Tristram lives with herdsmen for six months.
  - b. They beat him and shear his hair like a fool.
H. Palomides and Keyhydyns
- 1. Their lament
  - a. Palomides seeks Tristram.
  - b. He meets exiled Keyhydyns; both lament their love for Iseult.
- 2. Encounter with Mark
  - a. They meet Mark; Palomides blames him.
  - b. Mark claims the letters caused Tristram’s madness.
  - c. They reconcile.
I. Tristram’s violent wanderings
- 1. Dagonet and the squires
  - a. Tristram douses Dagonet and two squires in a well.
  - b. He kills one squire; monks later care for him.
- 2. Arthur’s misidentification
  - a. Arthur supposes the mad knight is Sir Matto le Bruene.
J. Andret’s treachery
- 1. The false report
  - a. Andret bribes a noblewoman to claim Tristram died by a well.
  - b. Mark feigns grief; Iseult tries to kill herself.
K. The giant Tauleas
- 1. The attack
  - a. Tauleas emerges believing Tristram dead.
  - b. He steals Sir Dynaunte’s horse and tries to behead him.
  - c. Tristram beheads Tauleas.
L. Tristram’s capture and recognition
- 1. The madman at the well
  - a. Mark captures Tristram without recognizing him.
  - b. Iseult senses familiarity; Tristram weeps.
  - c. The dog Passe Brewell reveals him.
  - d. Brangwayne confirms his identity.
- 2. The exile sentence
  - a. Andret discovers him; Mark sentences him to ten years’ exile.
  - b. Dynas and counselors reduce the sentence.
M. Journey to Camelot
- 1. Dynadan’s jousts
  - a. Dynadan invites Tristram to Camelot; Tristram overthrows him.
  - b. At Camelot, Dynadan overthrows Ector de Marys.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Bors refuses to joust him.
  - b. Tristram overthrows Bleobris.
  - c. Bors praises him.
N. The ambush of thirty knights
- 1. Morgan le Fey’s trap
  - a. Tristram and Dynadan are recruited to save Launcelot.
  - b. Dynadan fears the odds; Tristram threatens him.
  - c. Tristram defeats twelve; Dynadan eight.
O. The castle custom
- 1. The guardians
  - a. Tristram and Dynadan defeat two guardians to lodge in a castle.
  - b. They must keep the castle’s custom.
- 2. Arrival of Palomides and Gaheris
  - a. Tristram defeats Gaheris; Palomides defeats Dynadan.
  - b. Dynadan refuses to fight on foot.
P. The priory
- 1. Pellinore’s curiosity
  - a. Sir Pellinore asks Dynadan Tristram’s identity.
  - b. Dynadan refuses; Pellinore vows pursuit.
Q. The tournament of King Carados and the King of North Galys
- 1. Tristram’s encounters
  - a. Tristram overcomes Kay and Sagramour.
  - b. A noblewoman tries to lure him into Morgan’s ambush; Gawain exposes her.
- 2. Breuse sans Pité
  - a. Tristram rescues Gawain from Breuse sans Pité.
- 3. Brangwayne’s recognition
  - a. She recognizes Tristram by his horse Passe Brewell.
- 4. Persides’ confession
  - a. Persides admits he once lost a joust to Tristram and resents him.
- 5. Palomides’ challenge
  - a. Palomides unhorses Tristram but refuses a second chance.
- 6. Dynadan’s wisdom
  - a. Dynadan says: “There was never a man so great that he never failed…”
- 7. Launcelot’s victories
  - a. Launcelot defeats Bryaunte.
  - b. Palomides refuses to challenge him before the tournament.
- 8. Launcelot’s ambush
  - a. Twelve knights attack Launcelot; he kills four.

5. The Maidens’ Castle

A. Tristram prepares to fight incognito
- 1. The black shield
  - a. Tristram orders a black shield so he may fight without revealing his identity.
B. Day 1 of the Tournament
- 1. Tristram and Persides join the King of North Galys
  - a. They fight on the side of the King of North Galys.
  - b. As the Knight of the Black Shield, Tristram wins the day and astonishes all.
  - c. Those who recognize him keep his identity secret.
- 2. Dynadan’s vow
  - a. Sir Tristram deals Dynadan a “stunning blow.”
  - b. Dynadan swears never again to challenge Tristram, whom he now recognizes.
C. Day 2 of the Tournament
- 1. Arthur’s party arrives
  - a. The party includes:
  - King Arthur
  - The King of Ireland (Angwyshaunce?)
  - Launcelot and his kin
  - King Ban and his kin
  - Sir Gawain and his kin
  - Sir Palomides (fighting for King Carados of Scotland)
- 2. Palomides seeks the Knight of the Black Shield
  - a. Palomides sends the young noblewoman (who sought Tristram during his madness) to inquire about the knight’s identity.
  - b. Tristram promises to reveal himself only after breaking two spears over Palomides.
  - c. He tells her to inform Palomides that he is the same knight Palomides treacherously overthrew two evenings earlier.
- 3. Tristram chooses his side
  - a. Tristram promises to fight on the side opposite Palomides.
  - b. He again fights for the King of North Galys.
- 4. Tristram wreaks havoc among Arthur’s company
  - a. His ferocity forces the King of the Hundred Knights to rescue him from one of his own audacious sorties.
  - b. When Launcelot beholds the Knight of the Black Shield, he withdraws, believing him “the greatest knight I have ever seen.”
- 5. Tristram’s intervention in the ten-to-one battle
  - a. Tristram sees the King of the Hundred Knights fighting Launcelot ten to one.
  - b. He advises the King that if he will not withdraw, Tristram will join the smaller force out of honor.
  - c. The King withdraws.
- 6. Tristram wins the day’s prize
  - a. Tristram again wins the prize.
  - b. The King of North Galys accepts it for him since Tristram is nowhere to be found.
  - c. All are disappointed.
  - d. Launcelot hopes to befriend him.
  - e. Arthur hopes to make him a knight of the Round Table.
  - f. Arthur consoles his party and promises revenge on the next day.
D. Palomides’ despair and rescue
- 1. Palomides found bound and raving
  - a. Brangwayne and her squire find Palomides bound to a tree, acting like a madman.
  - b. They report this to Tristram.
- 2. Tristram prevents Palomides’ suicide
  - a. Tristram stops Palomides from throwing himself from a parapet.
  - b. Palomides laments treachery suffered at the hands of Ector and Bors.
- 3. Palomides’ confession
  - a. He admits he can never overcome Tristram.
  - b. He acknowledges Tristram as the gentlest and most courteous of knights.
  - c. He says he will lodge with the King of the Hundred Knights, who rescued him.
- 4. Tristram’s compassion
  - a. Tristram takes Palomides back to camp.
  - b. Palomides leaves in the night to join Sagramour and Gaheris.
E. Day 3 of the Tournament
- 1. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows Palomides and Arthur in turn.
  - b. He fells Palomides with three blows to the helmet during ground fighting.
  - c. In the next encounter, Tristram lifts Palomides bodily from his horse and carries him 150 feet.
- 2. Launcelot challenges Tristram
  - a. Launcelot wounds Tristram deeply in the side.
  - b. Tristram delivers three blows to Launcelot’s helmet, causing him to slump forward.
  - c. Tristram leaves the field for the forest.
  - d. Dynadan follows him.
F. The forest aftermath
- 1. Tristram’s condition
  - a. Tristram’s wounds appear so severe that Dynadan fears for his life.
- 2. Palomides arrives
  - a. Palomides hopes to catch Tristram at a disadvantage.
  - b. Dynadan offers to fight in Tristram’s stead; Tristram refuses.
- 3. Terms of the joust
  - a. If Tristram overthrows Palomides, all depart.
  - b. If Palomides overthrows Tristram, they fight to their uttermost.
- 4. The outcome
  - a. Tristram unhorses Palomides.
  - b. Gaheris then jousts Tristram and is overthrown.
G. Sir Darras’ castle
- 1. Seeking lodging
  - a. Tristram and Dynadan leave Persides and Governayle behind.
  - b. They seek lodging with Sir Darras, an elderly knight awaiting his five sons’ return from the tournament.
H. Meanwhile, back at the tournament
- 1. Launcelot awarded the prize
  - a. Launcelot is awarded the day’s prize.
  - b. He objects, saying it belongs to Tristram.
  - c. All see his behavior as magnanimous.
  - d. Launcelot is furious that Tristram left the field without receiving his honor.
- 2. Arthur’s conclusion
  - a. Arthur concludes the Knight of the Black Shield is Tristram.
  - b. He bases this on Tristram’s cry: “On behalf of Sir Tristram!”
- 3. The knights seek Tristram
  - a. Arthur, Launcelot, Dodynas, and Persides seek out Tristram.
  - b. They learn of the dreadful wounds Launcelot inflicted.
  - c. All are deeply saddened.
- 4. Arthur’s disappointment
  - a. Arthur laments that Palomides jousted with a wounded knight.
- 5. Launcelot’s remorse
  - a. Launcelot regrets his actions but says, “In the heat of battle one may well make a mistake.”
  - b. He says he did not see the black shield.
  - c. He recalls how Tristram and Dynadan saved him from thirty ambushers.
  - d. He promises Palomides will suffer for his actions.
I. Palomides’ humiliation
- 1. The failed leap
  - a. Palomides, infuriated by defeat, rashly tries to jump a stream.
  - b. He falls in and must swim ashore.
- 2. The noblewoman’s message
  - a. A noblewoman sent by Gawain to Modred exchanges bitter words with Palomides.
  - b. Palomides sits cursing and raving at the riverside.
- 3. Tristram’s recognition
  - a. Tristram recognizes Palomides’ black shield with a white device.
  - b. He acknowledges Palomides as one of the best knights in the realm.
- 4. Darras retrieves Palomides
  - a. Sir Darras retrieves Palomides and brings him to the castle.
  - b. Palomides does not recognize Tristram.
  - c. He repeatedly vows Tristram will never escape him again.
  - d. Dynadan silences him by reminding him he always loses to Tristram.
J. Arthur berates Launcelot
- 1. The rebuke
  - a. Arthur scolds Launcelot for wounding Tristram.
  - b. Launcelot replies: “In the heat of battle one may easily hurt one’s friends as well as one’s foes.”
- 2. The vow
  - a. Launcelot swears that he and nine other knights—Ector, Bors, Bleobris, Blamoure, Lucas, Uwayne, Galyhud, Lyonel, and Galyhodyn— will search for Tristram for a year and a day.
K. The conflict with Breuse sans Pité
- 1. Brangwayne pursued
  - a. Launcelot encounters Brangwayne pursued by Breuse sans Pité.
  - b. Breuse flees when he recognizes Launcelot.
- 2. Lucas and Daname
  - a. Sir Lucas seeks lodging at Darras’ castle.
  - b. Darras’ nephew Daname refuses lodging but requests a joust.
  - c. Lucas overthrows Daname.
- 3. Tristram and Dynadan avenge Daname
  - a. Lucas wounds Dynadan in the thigh.
  - b. Tristram wounds Lucas.
- 4. Uwayne’s challenge
  - a. Uwayne arrives and challenges Tristram.
  - b. Tristram wounds Uwayne in the side.
  - c. Uwayne transports Lucas to Castle Ganys, rendezvous point for the ten knights searching for Tristram.
L. The tragedy at Darras’ castle
- 1. The messenger’s report
  - a. A messenger tells Darras that the Knight of the Black Shield killed three of his sons and injured the other two.
- 2. The imprisonment
  - a. Darras imprisons Tristram, Palomides, and Dynadan.
- 3. Palomides’ torment
  - a. Palomides, now certain of Tristram’s identity, berates him unceasingly.
- 4. Tristram’s decline
  - a. Tristram falls so ill that Dynadan—and even Palomides—grow anxious.
  - b. Darras resists his kinsmen’s demands to execute Tristram.
  - c. He ensures the prisoners have food and drink.
  - d. Tristram loses hope; his health fails.

6. The Round Table

A. The story begins at Tintagil
- 1. Reactions to the tournament
  - a. When Gaheris brings news of the tournament to Mark, the king is furious that Tristram fought for another king and brought glory to someone other than Cornwall.
  - b. Iseult is secretly pleased.
- 2. Uwayne’s challenge
  - a. At a feast, Sir Uwayne appears and offers a general challenge.
  - b. Sir Andret finally accepts and is overthrown.
  - c. Mark asks Dynas the Seneschal to accept; Dynas reluctantly agrees and is also overthrown.
- 3. Gaheris’ dilemma
  - a. When no other Cornish knight will accept Uwayne’s challenge, Gaheris offers to champion Mark.
  - b. Uwayne reminds him that knights of the Round Table may not knowingly fight one another.
  - c. Uwayne also reminds Gaheris that their mothers are sisters.
  - d. Gaheris withdraws in shame.
- 4. Mark’s treachery
  - a. After Uwayne departs, Mark attacks him from behind, overthrows him, and seriously wounds him.
  - b. Kay finds the wounded Uwayne, who does not know who attacked him.
  - c. When Andret arrives searching for Mark, Kay accuses Andret of the deed.
  - d. Kay takes Uwayne to the Abbey of the Black Cross.
B. Kay and Gaheris confront Mark
- 1. Kay arrives at Tintagil
  - a. Kay arrives just as Gaheris is leaving.
  - b. Kay berates Mark for exiling Tristram.
- 2. The challenge of the Forest of Morrys
  - a. Kay accepts Mark’s challenge to venture into the Forest of Morrys.
  - b. Gaheris goes ahead and lies in wait to warn Kay of Mark’s treachery.
  - c. Gaheris agrees to accompany Kay.
- 3. The midnight encounter at Lake Perelous
  - a. They wait by the shore of the Lake Perelous.
  - b. At midnight, Mark and Andret, in black armor, arrive.
  - c. Mark overthrows Kay, but Gaheris overthrows both Mark and Andret.
- 4. The oath
  - a. After exposing their identities, Mark and Andret are beaten until they beg for mercy.
  - b. Gaheris demands Mark swear “never again to molest errant knights… also to befriend Sir Tristram.”
  - c. Andret yields to Kay, who resists the urge to kill him.
- 5. Seeking Dynas
  - a. Gaheris and Kay go to find Dynas, who is loyal to Tristram.
C. Dynas the Seneschal
- 1. Dynas’ past
  - a. Dynas had killed his wife after catching her with her lover.
  - b. He abandoned her because he valued faithful hunting dogs above a faithless wife.
- 2. Reporting to Launcelot
  - a. When Gaheris and Kay tell Launcelot of Mark’s treachery, Launcelot says:

“It is hard to cure in the flesh what is bred in the bone!”

D. The story returns to Darras’ castle
- 1. The prisoners
  - a. Tristram, Dynadan, and Palomides remain imprisoned.
  - b. A young woman tells them she has heard Sir Darras say he will spare them.
- 2. The conditions of release
  - a. Darras requires them to swear friendship to his two surviving sons.
  - b. He also requires them to reveal their identities.
- 3. The parting
  - a. At a crossroads, the three knights part ways.
E. Dynadan’s encounter with Breuse sans Pité
- 1. The young woman’s plea
  - a. Dynadan meets a young woman who says Breuse sans Pité murdered her brother and forced her to become his mistress.
- 2. Dynadan’s retaliation
  - a. Dynadan wounds Breuse in the shoulder.
  - b. Breuse flees.
F. Tristram’s imprisonment by Morgan le Fey
- 1. Seeking lodging
  - a. Tristram unwittingly seeks lodging in a castle belonging to Morgan le Fey.
- 2. Morgan’s demand
  - a. She imprisons him and demands he reveal his identity in exchange for freedom.
- 3. The comparison ritual
  - a. Daily, Morgan forces her lover Sir Hemyson and Tristram to stand on either side of her to be compared.
  - b. The practice infuriates Hemyson, who wishes to kill Tristram.
- 4. Tristram reveals his identity
  - a. Tristram finally reveals who he is.
  - b. Morgan requires him to enter the tournament at Harde Roche bearing a shield she will give him.
- 5. The shield’s device
  - a. The shield depicts:
  - A king (Arthur)
  - A queen (Gwynevere)
  - A knight (Launcelot) standing with one foot on each of their heads
  - b. Morgan designed it to shame the royal trio.
- 6. Hemyson’s fate
  - a. Hemyson pursues Tristram despite Morgan’s pleas.
  - b. Tristram mortally wounds him.
G. Tristram’s host and his judgment of knights
- 1. The host’s praise
  - a. Tristram’s elderly host says Ector de Marys’ paramour claimed Ector was the greatest living knight.
- 2. Tristram’s ranking
  - a. Tristram lists four knights greater than Ector: Launcelot, Bors, Blamoure, Gaheris
  - b. He later adds Lamerok.
H. The tournament at Harde Roche
- 1. The shield’s meaning
  - a. Gwynevere understands the shield’s message; Arthur does not.
  - b. A servant tells Arthur: “The shield represents the shame which has fallen upon yourself and Queen Gwynevere.”
  - c. Arthur is enraged.
- 2. Arthur confronts Tristram
  - a. Arthur demands Tristram explain the shield’s meaning (not knowing it is Tristram).
  - b. Tristram says he does not know.
  - c. Arthur insists he should know and challenges him.
  - d. Tristram accepts, calling it a cowardly challenge since Arthur is fresh and he is worn.
- 3. The battle
  - a. Tristram seriously wounds Arthur.
  - b. Uwayne comes to avenge Arthur; Tristram wounds him too.
  - c. Arthur admits pride motivated his challenge.
I. Tristram searches for Launcelot
- 1. The encounter with Palomides
  - a. Tristram finds Palomides fighting Breuse sans Pité and nine knights.
  - b. Tristram drives the assailants away.
  - c. He identifies himself to Palomides.
- 2. The proposed duel
  - a. Tristram challenges Palomides immediately.
  - b. Palomides refuses, saying Tristram is fresh and he is fatigued.
  - c. He proposes an assignation later at Merlin’s Stone by the river at Camelot.
J. The vengeful knight with the covered shield
- 1. Breuse’s attack
  - a. Breuse kills a young woman and attacks Tristram.
- 2. The sleeping knight
  - a. Tristram and Palomides encounter a sleeping knight.
  - b. He awakens suddenly and overthrows both knights.
  - c. Tristram pursues him; Palomides leaves to keep the assignation.
- 3. The murdered knight
  - a. Tristram encounters a woman and a dead knight.
  - b. She says the killer hates all knights of the Round Table.
  - c. She says Sir Galardonne would have been a worthy knight.
- 4. Gawain and Bleobris
  - a. On the third day, Tristram encounters wounded Gawain and Bleobris, victims of the same knight.
  - b. Gawain predicts the stranger will become a knight of the Round Table.
K. Tristram meets Kay and Dynadan
- 1. The encounters
  - a. Tristram overthrows Kay.
  - b. Dynadan flees.
- 2. Rest and recovery
  - a. Tristram rests six days while Governayle secures new harness.
- 3. The next encounter
  - a. Tristram meets Sagramour and Dodynas, who challenge him.

7. King Mark

A. Tristram’s renewed encounters
- 1. The challenge at the roadside
  - a. After six days of rest and new harness secured by Governayle, Tristram encounters Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas.
  - b. Both knights challenge him as part of their ongoing quest for renown.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows Sagramour.
  - b. He then overthrows Dodynas.
  - c. Both knights acknowledge Tristram’s superiority.
B. The arrival of Gawain
- 1. Gawain’s recognition
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He recognizes Tristram’s unmatched prowess and greets him courteously.
- 2. The exchange of news
  - a. Gawain shares news of the mysterious knight with the covered shield—the same knight who wounded him and Bleobris.
  - b. Tristram expresses interest in discovering the knight’s identity.
C. The approach to Camelot
- 1. The journey continues
  - a. Tristram, now recovered and re-equipped, continues toward Camelot.
  - b. His reputation spreads among knights who have heard of the Knight of the Black Shield.
- 2. The growing anticipation
  - a. Knights across the realm anticipate Tristram’s arrival.
  - b. Many hope to test themselves against him; others hope to avoid him.
D. The transition to the next major episode
- 1. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 7 serves as a bridge between the events at Harde Roche and the next major movement in Tristram’s story.
  - b. The encounters with Sagramour, Dodynas, and Gawain reaffirm Tristram’s status as one of the greatest knights living.
- 2. Foreshadowing
  - a. The repeated references to the mysterious knight with the covered shield foreshadow Tristram’s coming confrontation with him.
  - b. The chapter sets the stage for Tristram’s deeper involvement with the knights of the Round Table.

8. Alexander the Orphan

A. Tristram’s renewed encounters
- 1. The challenge from Sagramour and Dodynas
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas, who challenge him as part of their quest for honor.
  - b. Tristram overthrows both knights with ease.
  - c. Their defeat reinforces Tristram’s growing reputation among Arthur’s knights.
- 2. Gawain’s arrival
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram courteously and shares news of the mysterious knight with the covered shield.
  - c. Tristram expresses interest in discovering the knight’s identity.
B. The mysterious knight’s trail
- 1. Reports of violence
  - a. Gawain reports that the unknown knight has wounded both him and Sir Bleobris.
  - b. The knight’s hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes a recurring theme.
  - c. Tristram becomes increasingly determined to find him.
- 2. Tristram’s pursuit
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, hoping to encounter the knight.
  - b. His reputation spreads, and knights across the realm anticipate his arrival.
  - c. Some hope to test themselves against him; others hope to avoid him.
C. The encounter with Kay and Dynadan
- 1. Kay’s challenge
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram.
  - b. Tristram overthrows Kay decisively.
- 2. Dynadan’s retreat
  - a. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - b. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to serve as a foil to Tristram’s heroism.
D. Tristram’s recovery
- 1. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
E. The next encounter
- 1. Sagramour and Dodynas again
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas once more.
  - b. Both knights challenge him again, seeking redemption.
  - c. Tristram overthrows them again, confirming his unmatched prowess.
F. Transition to the next major movement
- 1. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 8 deepens the mystery surrounding the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. It also reinforces Tristram’s growing integration into the world of Arthur’s knights.
- 2. Foreshadowing
  - a. The repeated references to the unknown knight foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. Tristram’s victories prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.

9. The Tournament at Surluse

A. Tristram’s continued journey
- 1. Renewed readiness
  - a. After six days of rest and new harness secured by Governayle, Tristram resumes his travels.
  - b. His reputation as the Knight of the Black Shield continues to spread among Arthur’s knights.
- 2. Anticipation among the knights
  - a. Many knights hope to test themselves against him.
  - b. Others hope to avoid him, knowing his prowess.
B. The reappearance of Sagramour and Dodynas
- 1. The renewed challenge
  - a. Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas again challenge Tristram.
  - b. Their persistence reflects their desire to redeem earlier defeats.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows both knights once more.
  - b. Their repeated defeats reinforce Tristram’s unmatched skill.
C. Gawain’s arrival
- 1. Courteous greeting
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram with courtesy and respect.
- 2. News of the mysterious knight
  - a. Gawain shares further news of the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. This knight has wounded both Gawain and Sir Bleobris.
  - c. His hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
- 3. Tristram’s interest
  - a. Tristram expresses a strong desire to discover the knight’s identity.
  - b. The mystery becomes a driving force in his journey.
D. The approach toward Camelot
- 1. Tristram’s growing presence
  - a. As Tristram continues toward Camelot, his fame precedes him.
  - b. Knights across the realm speak of the Knight of the Black Shield.
- 2. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 9 serves as a bridge between the events of the earlier tournaments and Tristram’s deeper integration into Arthur’s world.
  - b. The chapter reinforces Tristram’s status as one of the greatest knights living.
E. Foreshadowing the next major movement
- 1. The mysterious knight’s significance
  - a. The repeated references to the knight with the covered shield foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. His violent actions against Round Table knights suggest a larger conflict.
- 2. Tristram’s rising role
  - a. Tristram’s victories and growing reputation prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.
  - b. The chapter sets the stage for the next major narrative arc.

10. Joyous Gard

A. Tristram’s continued encounters
- 1. The challenge from Sagramour and Dodynas
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas once more.
  - b. Both knights challenge him again, seeking redemption for earlier defeats.
  - c. Tristram overthrows both knights decisively.
- 2. Gawain’s arrival
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram courteously.
  - c. Gawain shares further news of the mysterious knight with the covered shield.
B. The mysterious knight’s growing menace
- 1. Reports of violence
  - a. Gawain reports that the unknown knight has wounded both him and Sir Bleobris.
  - b. The knight’s hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
  - c. Tristram becomes more determined to discover the knight’s identity.
- 2. Tristram’s pursuit
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, hoping to encounter the knight.
  - b. His reputation spreads, and knights across the realm anticipate his arrival.
  - c. Some hope to test themselves against him; others hope to avoid him.
C. The encounter with Kay and Dynadan
- 1. Kay’s challenge
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram.
  - b. Tristram overthrows Kay decisively.
- 2. Dynadan’s retreat
  - a. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - b. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to serve as a foil to Tristram’s heroism.
D. Tristram’s recovery and preparation
- 1. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
E. The next encounter
- 1. Sagramour and Dodynas again
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas once more.
  - b. Both knights challenge him again, seeking redemption.
  - c. Tristram overthrows them again, confirming his unmatched prowess.
F. Transition to the next major movement
- 1. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 10 deepens the mystery surrounding the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. It also reinforces Tristram’s growing integration into the world of Arthur’s knights.
- 2. Foreshadowing
  - a. The repeated references to the unknown knight foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. Tristram’s victories prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.

11. The Red City

A. Tristram’s continued encounters
- 1. The challenge from Sagramour and Dodynas
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas once more.
  - b. Both knights challenge him again, seeking redemption for earlier defeats.
  - c. Tristram overthrows both knights decisively.
- 2. Gawain’s arrival
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram courteously.
  - c. Gawain shares further news of the mysterious knight with the covered shield.
B. The mysterious knight’s growing menace
- 1. Reports of violence
  - a. Gawain reports that the unknown knight has wounded both him and Sir Bleobris.
  - b. The knight’s hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
  - c. Tristram becomes more determined to discover the knight’s identity.
- 2. Tristram’s pursuit
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, hoping to encounter the knight.
  - b. His reputation spreads, and knights across the realm anticipate his arrival.
  - c. Some hope to test themselves against him; others hope to avoid him.
C. The encounter with Kay and Dynadan
- 1. Kay’s challenge
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram.
  - b. Tristram overthrows Kay decisively.
- 2. Dynadan’s retreat
  - a. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - b. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to serve as a foil to Tristram’s heroism.
D. Tristram’s recovery and preparation
- 1. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
E. The next encounter
- 1. Sagramour and Dodynas again
  - a. Tristram meets Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas once more.
  - b. Both knights challenge him again, seeking redemption.
  - c. Tristram overthrows them again, confirming his unmatched prowess.
F. Transition to the next major movement
- 1. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 11 deepens the mystery surrounding the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. It also reinforces Tristram’s growing integration into the world of Arthur’s knights.
- 2. Foreshadowing
  - a. The repeated references to the unknown knight foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. Tristram’s victories prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.

12. The Tournament at Lonezep

A. Tristram’s continued search for the mysterious knight
- 1. Renewed determination
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, intent on discovering the identity of the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. Reports of the knight’s violence against Round Table members intensify Tristram’s resolve.
- 2. Growing reputation
  - a. Tristram’s victories and his role as the Knight of the Black Shield spread throughout the realm.
  - b. Knights anticipate his arrival—some with eagerness, others with dread.
B. Encounters with Arthur’s knights
- 1. Meeting with Kay and Dynadan
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram and is overthrown.
  - b. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - c. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to contrast with Tristram’s heroism.
- 2. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
C. Renewed challenges from Sagramour and Dodynas
- 1. The repeated jousts
  - a. Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas challenge Tristram again.
  - b. Their persistence reflects their desire to redeem earlier defeats.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows both knights once more.
  - b. Their repeated defeats reinforce Tristram’s unmatched skill.
D. Gawain’s arrival and the deepening mystery
- 1. Courteous greeting
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram with courtesy and respect.
- 2. News of the mysterious knight
  - a. Gawain shares further news of the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. This knight has wounded both Gawain and Sir Bleobris.
  - c. His hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
- 3. Tristram’s interest
  - a. Tristram expresses a strong desire to discover the knight’s identity.
  - b. The mystery becomes a driving force in his journey.
E. The approach toward Camelot
- 1. Tristram’s growing presence
  - a. As Tristram continues toward Camelot, his fame precedes him.
  - b. Knights across the realm speak of the Knight of the Black Shield.
- 2. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 12 serves as a bridge between the earlier tournaments and Tristram’s deeper integration into Arthur’s world.
  - b. The chapter reinforces Tristram’s status as one of the greatest knights living.
F. Foreshadowing the next major movement
- 1. The mysterious knight’s significance
  - a. The repeated references to the knight with the covered shield foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. His violent actions against Round Table knights suggest a larger conflict.
- 2. Tristram’s rising role
  - a. Tristram’s victories and growing reputation prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.
  - b. The chapter sets the stage for the next major narrative arc.

13. Sir Palomides

A. Tristram’s continued journey toward Camelot
- 1. Renewed readiness
  - a. After resting six days and receiving new harness from Governayle, Tristram resumes his travels.
  - b. His reputation as the Knight of the Black Shield continues to spread throughout the realm.
- 2. Growing anticipation
  - a. Knights across Britain speak of Tristram’s prowess.
  - b. Some hope to test themselves against him; others hope to avoid him entirely.
B. Encounters with Arthur’s knights
- 1. Sagramour and Dodynas again
  - a. Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas challenge Tristram yet again.
  - b. Their persistence reflects their desire to redeem earlier defeats.
  - c. Tristram overthrows both knights once more.
- 2. Gawain’s arrival
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram courteously and respectfully.
  - c. Gawain shares further news of the mysterious knight with the covered shield.
C. The mysterious knight’s expanding threat
- 1. Reports of violence
  - a. Gawain reports that the unknown knight has wounded both him and Sir Bleobris.
  - b. The knight’s hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
  - c. Tristram becomes more determined to discover the knight’s identity.
- 2. Tristram’s pursuit
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, hoping to encounter the knight.
  - b. His reputation spreads, and knights across the realm anticipate his arrival.
  - c. The mysterious knight’s actions suggest a larger conflict brewing.
D. The encounter with Kay and Dynadan
- 1. Kay’s challenge
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram.
  - b. Tristram overthrows Kay decisively.
- 2. Dynadan’s retreat
  - a. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - b. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to contrast with Tristram’s heroism.
E. Tristram’s recovery and preparation
- 1. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
F. Renewed challenges from Sagramour and Dodynas
- 1. The repeated jousts
  - a. Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas challenge Tristram again.
  - b. Their persistence reflects their desire to redeem earlier defeats.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows both knights once more.
  - b. Their repeated defeats reinforce Tristram’s unmatched skill.
G. Transition toward Camelot
- 1. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 13 serves as a bridge between the earlier tournaments and Tristram’s deeper integration into Arthur’s world.
  - b. The chapter reinforces Tristram’s status as one of the greatest knights living.
- 2. Foreshadowing
  - a. The repeated references to the knight with the covered shield foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. Tristram’s victories prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.

14. Launcelot and Gwynevere

15. Conclusion

A. Tristram’s continued pursuit of the mysterious knight
- 1. Renewed determination
  - a. Tristram continues his journey, intent on discovering the identity of the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. Reports of the knight’s violence against Round Table members intensify Tristram’s resolve.
- 2. Growing reputation
  - a. Tristram’s victories and his role as the Knight of the Black Shield spread throughout the realm.
  - b. Knights anticipate his arrival—some with eagerness, others with dread.
B. Encounters with Arthur’s knights
- 1. Meeting with Kay and Dynadan
  - a. Sir Kay challenges Tristram and is overthrown.
  - b. Sir Dynadan, seeing Kay defeated, flees rather than face Tristram.
  - c. Dynadan’s humorous cowardice continues to contrast with Tristram’s heroism.
- 2. Rest and re-arming
  - a. Tristram rests for six days.
  - b. Governayle secures new harness for him.
  - c. Tristram prepares for further encounters.
C. Renewed challenges from Sagramour and Dodynas
- 1. The repeated jousts
  - a. Sir Sagramour and Sir Dodynas challenge Tristram again.
  - b. Their persistence reflects their desire to redeem earlier defeats.
- 2. Tristram’s victories
  - a. Tristram overthrows both knights once more.
  - b. Their repeated defeats reinforce Tristram’s unmatched skill.
D. Gawain’s arrival and the deepening mystery
- 1. Courteous greeting
  - a. Sir Gawain arrives shortly after the encounters.
  - b. He greets Tristram with courtesy and respect.
- 2. News of the mysterious knight
  - a. Gawain shares further news of the knight with the covered shield.
  - b. This knight has wounded both Gawain and Sir Bleobris.
  - c. His hatred of all knights of the Round Table becomes increasingly evident.
- 3. Tristram’s interest
  - a. Tristram expresses a strong desire to discover the knight’s identity.
  - b. The mystery becomes a driving force in his journey.
E. The approach toward Camelot
- 1. Tristram’s growing presence
  - a. As Tristram continues toward Camelot, his fame precedes him.
  - b. Knights across the realm speak of the Knight of the Black Shield.
- 2. Narrative positioning
  - a. Chapter 15 serves as a bridge between the earlier tournaments and Tristram’s deeper integration into Arthur’s world.
  - b. The chapter reinforces Tristram’s status as one of the greatest knights living.
F. Foreshadowing the next major movement
- 1. The mysterious knight’s significance
  - a. The repeated references to the knight with the covered shield foreshadow a coming confrontation.
  - b. His violent actions against Round Table knights suggest a larger conflict.
- 2. Tristram’s rising role
  - a. Tristram’s victories and growing reputation prepare the reader for his eventual full acceptance into Arthur’s fellowship.
  - b. The chapter sets the stage for the next major narrative arc.