The Once and Future King

The Once and Future King

by

T. H. White

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The Once and Future King: Book 3, Chapter 25 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Fifteen years pass. Everyone is much the same, except older. Most of the original knights are still at court, except there are a horde of new ones who know Arthur only as the accepted conqueror and Lancelot as the hero of a hundred victories. The two are now legends, idealized by common folk. Moreover, the land of England is changed radically: it is sophisticated and civilized. Before men ate with their bloodied hands in dark, musty halls, now men and women alike eat with hands clean from herb-scented soap in halls bright and airy. Young, ambitious knights flock to Arthur's courts. One of the young men who come is Gareth; another is Mordred.
In this chapter, White describes the many changes wrought to the realm since Arthur has been in power. Arthur has civilized England and made it more enlightened. However, not all this change is good—there are now fashions and cliques. Political intrigue is rife. Moreover, Mordred—Arthur's son and downfall—arrives at court.
Themes
Chivalry, Satire & Medieval Life Theme Icon
Fate (Time) Theme Icon
Might vs. Right Theme Icon