The Faerie Queene: Book V: Canto IX Summary & Analysis

Arthegall and Arthur spend some time enjoying the dead Sultan’s house before deciding it’s time to start traveling again. But Samient persuades them to go see Mercilla, who isn’t far away. Along the way, they hear about a wicked knight named Malengin who steals from travelers and lives far underground, so they decide to try to find him.

Samient leads Arthegall and Arthur to Malengin’s cave. When they arrive, Samient goes first and tries to call him out of the cave. Suddenly, he emerges, and they’re all horrified by his dreadful appearance, such as his empty eyes and long curly hair. He has a staff and a big net—like a fisherman fishes at a stream, Malengin fishes for fools by the side of the road. Malengin ensnares Samient in his net, and Arthegall rushes after her, but the terrain is treacherous, so he sends Talus ahead.

When Talus catches Malengin, he uses his flail to break his bones and disembowel him. Talus, Arthur, and Arthegall leave him to be eaten by vultures, then free Samient as they continue their journey toward Mercilla.

Arthegall, Arthur, and Samient finally make it to the court of the queen Mercilla. Many splendid knights are there to greet them. In the court, there’s also a bad poet with his tongue nailed to a post, as punishment for blasphemy against the queen. The knights greet Queen Mercilla, who also praises Arthur and Arthegall.

A woman who looks beautiful but is accused of serious crimes (Duessa) is brought before the court. A man called Zeal stands up and tells of Duessa’s many crimes, including treason against Mercilla. After listing Duessa’s many crimes, Zeal then brings out the hag Ate. He keeps bringing out more women who have committed crimes, including Murder, Sedition, Incontinence, Adultery, and Impiety. Zeal urges the queen to punish Duessa. The queen sees the need for justice but also has pity for Duessa.