Student Question
What are Sir Bedivere's characteristics in Le Morte d'Arthur?
Quick answer:
Sir Bedivere, in Le Morte d'Arthur, is the last surviving Knight of the Round Table, known for his loyalty and inner conflict. After King Arthur's final battle, Bedivere is tasked with returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake. Initially, he hesitates, lying about completing the task due to the sword's value. However, upon Arthur's insistence, he fulfills the request, witnessing a supernatural event that signifies his obedience and Arthur's peace.
Sir Bedivere is the last surviving Knight of the Round Table; he has lived in a hermitage since King Arthur's death. He played an important role for the king during their final battle together. When Arthur is mortally wounded, he requests that Bedivere take his sword, Excalibur, and return it to the Lady of the Lake. Bedivere goes to do this, but he doesn't want to throw such a valuable and important sword into a lake, so he lies and says that it is done. Arthur catches the lie, however, because he knows that some supernatural event must accompany the return of Excalibur. Bedivere finally does as he has been asked, and a hand rises up from the lake to take the sword. This shows Arthur that the task has been completed as he desired, and the king dies in peace.
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