, Research Paper
The Knights of the Round Table
The Knights of the Round Table were noble in their actions. Sir Launcelot is a prime example of nobility of the Round Table. Throughout his life, Launcelot was unselfish, caring, and faithful to the knighthood. Launcelot was the greatest mounted warrior and was respected by all. The Knights of the Round Table were noble people.
Sir Launcelot was a faithful knight. He was devoted to his work of adventure and helping the disturbed by his pledge to the knighthood. Many women throughout the kingdom craved Launcelot because of his courage. When asked, “Why is it you do not take to yourself a wife?” (p.561), Launcelot replied, “But married I will not be, for then I will have to attend my lady instead of entering tournaments and war, and riding in search of adventure.” (p.561) Sir Launcelot has always had an interest in Queen Gwynevere, but he never fully persued her.
Sir Launcelot proved he was not selfish in many ways throughout the story. After Launcelot defeated Sir Tarquine, he resisted the idea of looting his castle for all of Sir Tarquine s wealth. When Launcelot arrived at the castle of Tintagil, he killed the two giant guards and again he resisted in stealing their wealth. Each time, he gave the riches to the prisoners whom were captured in the castle. These occurrences show that Launcelot did not wish personal riches for himself, but wanted to complete his duties as a Knight of the Round Table by not being selfish.
Sir Launcelot proved he was caring throughout the story in many ways. Launcelot defended a woman who was being attacked by Sir Percy. Launcelot killed the man responsible for this thievery saying, “For shame that a knight should so degrade his high calling.” (p.561) Launcelot also showed his compassion with Sir Kay. Launcelot killed three knights who were about to attack Sir Kay. Launcelot said, “You re lives will be spared if you yield Sir Kay.” (p.562) While Sir Kay slept that night, Launcelot switched his armor with Sir Kay s and rode off to fight Sir Kay s enemies to give Sir Kay a clear ride back in Launcelot s armor. Sir Launcelot jousted Sir Gauture, Sir Raynolds, and Sir Gylemore making each of them yield to Sir Kay during Launcelot s ride to the Camelot.
Sir Launcelot is the best example of the loyalty of the Knights of the Round table in all of his actions. Launcelot did not let love get into any of his affairs and yet showed compassion and proved that he was not out to win personal gain. The Knights of the Round Table were noble in their actions.