The King Stag
The King Stag, Chapter 1 Summary
Gwydion tricks Morgause into throwing a feast and putting on her finery. All day long she senses Gwydion is up to something. What he does not tell her is that, with the Sight, he knows there will be visitors. As he expects, Viviane, Niniane, and Kevin, who is now the Merlin of Britain, come to Lothian to visit with Morgause and Gwydion. When Viviane sees Gwydion, she thinks he resembles Lancelet.
Kevin talks about the news at Arthur's court and tells Morgause how her sons are doing. Viviane comments that she knows Gwydion has the Sight. In conversation, Kevin hints that Gwydion has much to learn in the ways of a priest or a Druid. This gets Gwydion very excited. Then Gwydion overhears a comment by Viviane about there being two royal lines. She goes on to tell him that it takes more than royal blood alone to make a good king, who also needs courage, wisdom, and farsightedness. They speak, however, of Gwydion being the answer for the future, since Arthur is not working out as they hoped. It is during Viviane's visit that Gwydion puts the pieces together and realizes who his father is. Once Viviane sees how strong the Sight is with Gwydion, she decides that he must leave with them at once to go to Avalon.
The King Stag, Chapter 1 Analysis
This chapter sets the stage for Gwydion showing his true colors. Morgaine's child is fast growing into a man. Although strong in the Sight, he keeps this information hidden. This is suggestive that the rest of his personality is quiet, calculating, and manipulative. The only time he is humbled is when he learns that those from Avalon can see right through his act. Gwydion proves to be a smart boy with hints that his intelligence and wit will come to use down the road. However, there is a sense of trepidation over Gwydion being schooled in Avalon given his personality. If he is schooled in Avalon, then he will learn to use the powers he already has; this, mixed with his secretive side, may lead to something climactic years down the road.
The King Stag, Chapter 2 Summary
Arthur's court prepares for the Pentecost feast. Morgaine is anxious to see Kevin, but still has feelings for Lancelet. Kevin arrives and tells Morgaine that he rode with Gwydion to Avalon. He tells her that he will be schooled in Avalon as a Druid. After his training, things must go as they will, but Kevin believes that Gwydion will make a bard and a notable wise man. Kevin and Morgaine go to the feast on Pentecost eve, where Gareth is preparing to become knighted by Lancelet.
The fanfare at the feast table becomes boisterous, as Gawaine makes a jest about Lancelet's devotion to the queen. Arthur settles the dispute, but Lancelet walks away, his feathers ruffled. Later in the evening, Morgaine stops to speak to Lancelet and asks him what is bothering him. He confesses everything to Morgaine--his love for Gwenhwyfar and the night he spent with her and Arthur in bed. Since he cannot be with his true love, he feels tortured to the point where he wants Arthur to send him away on some quest.
The King Stag, Chapter 2 Analysis
When Morgaine leaves Avalon while pregnant with Gwydion, she first works through her anger at Viviane, but then needs to work through her guilt over leaving Avalon. For a time, the two emotions are conflicted within her. She still feels anger over Viviane's actions that gave Morgaine this pregnancy. She also knows that she left Avalon of her own free will but feels guilty because she knows that her place is back there. In the same token, it is not yet time for her to return, and so she thinks about marriage because it is refreshing to love someone so simply. However, a vision comes to her later, which causes her to question her future. If the Sight has returned to her, she feels it must be a sign that Avalon will eventually welcome her. Time will tell.
The King Stag, Chapter 3 Summary
It is Pentecost and everyone at Camelot is preparing for the day's festivities. The day begins with a church service, and immediately afterward, Lancelet knights Gareth. When Morgaine approaches Gareth to give him a gift, he slips and makes a comment to her about how her son Gwydion has grown. Gwenhwyfar overhears the comment but promises Morgaine she will not say anything to Arthur. Nothing is mentioned as to who is Gwydion's father.
As Morgaine leaves the games and goes inside, where she sees that Viviane has arrived, so Morgaine goes to her immediately. It is at this moment that Morgaine realizes that she does indeed have the Sight, and that it never really left her. They catch up on each other's lives, and Viviane tells Morgaine about the visit Viviane had with Gwydion in Lothian before he came to Avalon. Viviane hints that Gwydion can be used to threaten Arthur and that there is another with the Pendragon blood that will uphold the oath that Arthur has broken. Viviane goes on to say, however, that it is still too early to know what will happen. Viviane then asks Morgaine to return with her to Avalon to fulfill her role as the Lady of the Lake. Morgaine is happy for the invitation and agrees to go with Viviane the next day.
That night at the feast, there is commotion in the hall as Maleagrant, Gwenhwyfar's half-brother, petitions the king to let him rule in King Loedengranz's stead, since the king is dead. Arthur and his Companions urge Maleagrant to come back at another time for this petition. Viviane takes her place as the next petitioner before the king and starts to remind Arthur of his oath to Avalon. Another commotion breaks out, as Balin steps forward, and, using the sword that Maleagrant left behind, swings at Viviane's head and splits it wide open at the foot of Arthur's throne. He exclaims that he is doing justice, since he feels that Viviane murdered his dying mother. Arthur is furious and casts Balin out of his court. As his penance, he is instructed to make a pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Lands, but he never makes it. Balan intercepts him on the way and kills him with one stroke of the sword, and he, too, takes a wound that causes his death later the same day. Arthur has Viviane laid to rest at Glastonbury on the Holy Isle, but this infuriates Morgaine because this is a Christian site. When Kevin upholds the decision, it causes a rift between him and Morgaine.
The King Stag, Chapter 3 Analysis
Morgaine's journey back to Avalon does not come without cost to her. Each step she takes toward it only adds to her loneliness. Viviane's death is merely one part of that, although it hits her very hard. Kevin's decision also baffles her. Morgaine sees this move by Kevin as traitorous. While Kevin's move to support Arthur creates a rift between him and Morgaine, it also symbolizes the start on his path of destruction. Viviane's death can also be seen as timely, since Morgaine was not pressing Arthur to honor his promise to Avalon. While in years past, Taliesin and Kevin had approached Arthur about it, Viviane, too, is now unsuccessful with it. However, this both gives Morgaine the mission carry on and a solid reason to return to her priestess roots.
The King Stag, Chapter 4 Summary
Maleagrant invites Gwenhwyfar to go to him to settle their dispute. Arthur is currently away, so she seeks to go alone with one lady and a chamberlain. At Cai's urging, she also brings along Ectorius and Lucan. Morgaine senses that something is amiss and wants to go along for added protection, but Gwenhwyfar will not allow it. They proceed and arrive at her old home after the brief journey. Maleagrant manages to separate Gwenhwyfar from her party and locks her into her old room, which is in a state of disrepair, since no one has lived in it since before she was married. Now she regrets not taking more attendants with her, and she knows that Morgaine was right to be afraid for her.
Hours later, Maleagrant bursts into the room and rapes her with the intent of begetting an heir and ruining Gwenhwyfar for Arthur, so he will cast her aside. Shamed and beaten, Gwenhwyfar panics over her now uncertain future. After several more hours, Gwenhwyfar hears a commotion in the courtyard below, and Maleagrant comes once more into her room to take her to a more secure location. Before he can do so, someone hits his head from behind, and he is killed instantly. As he drops to the floor, Gwenhwyfar sees Lancelet standing there. Lancelet is broken hearted when he sees how Gwenhwyfar is so badly beaten. In a rare guilt-free moment, Gwenhwyfar decides to make love to Lancelet and feels no remorse for it. She feels that if her prayers go thus unanswered and bad things still happen, then she can give in to this sin with no regrets.
The King Stag, Chapter 4 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar has an interesting change of heart, although it is only temporary. Gwenhwyfar has spent her entire life praying and doing penance to keep her conscience clear of any wrongdoing. She is an over-pious Christian and believes that God will give her all that she prays for, if she is free of sin. This makes her current predicament under Maleagrant's imprisonment that much more baffling to her. All the praying and confession does nothing to avert this situation for her. It is her futile effort at praying that leads her into Lancelet's arms at the end of the chapter. She figures that if she lives by God's laws and prays and is devout, then God would protect her, but this is not the case. This event is momentous for Gwenhwyfar because when it comes to Lancelet, she decides that she will never again hide her love for him.
The King Stag, Chapter 5 Summary
It is the day after Gwenhwyfar returns home from her ordeal with Maleagrant. Morgaine and Elaine are preparing for the start of their day. Elaine wishes aloud that Lancelet were her husband. Morgaine tells her that it is not a good idea to go after him, since his heart is so committed to Gwenhwyfar. Elaine coaxes Morgaine into making a spell that will turn Lancelet to her, so that he will marry Elaine. After trying to talk her out of it unsuccessfully, Morgaine agrees to make the charm provided Elaine offers her first daughter to be brought up in Avalon. In a rush of emotion and excitement, Elaine agrees.
Morgaine knows that in order for this spell to work, she needs to get Lancelet away from court. When she has the opportunity to speak with him alone, she convinces him that his pining for Gwenhwyfar will be the end of him, and that he really should go from court. Lancelet finally agrees that going on some quest would do him some good. At dinner that night, he suggests this to Arthur, who chooses that he join King Pellinore in slaying the dragon they have been hunting for years. Lancelet believes the dragon is folly and is afraid that he is being kept from court indefinitely, but Arthur assures him a spot whenever he is ready to come back. As Arthur permits Lancelet to leave, Elaine asks to go home to be with her father, and Morgaine as asks to go with Elaine, claiming that the area in the vicinity of Elaine's home has herbs that are useful to her. Arthur grants permission for them to all go as they wish.
The King Stag, Chapter 5 Analysis
There are those in Arthur's court who write off Avalon as a place where witches and sorcerers live, although those same people have double standards. This can be said of Elaine, who, after talking with Morgaine, asks Morgaine to cast a spell that will entrap Lancelet into marrying her. One the one hand, Elaine sees Morgaine as a witch ,who comes from the evil land of Avalon, but on the other, she sees Morgaine as someone that Elaine can use. This does not come without its price, however. As payment, Elaine agrees to hand over her first daughter to Morgaine for schooling at Avalon. This is an arrangement that comes back to haunt Elaine.
The King Stag, Chapter 6 Summary
Morgaine tries to talk Elaine out of going through with her plan about Lancelet one more time before Morgaine makes the love potion. Elaine assures Morgaine that she Lancelet as her husband, so Morgaine continues. She blends herbs into some wine that Lancelet will drink later. It will make him believe that Elaine is Gwenhwyfar, and, when he goes to Elaine, he will make love to her. Once that is done, he will see that it is Elaine. Morgaine's plan is then for King Pellinore to discover them, so that Lancelet will be forced to marry Elaine. Before Morgaine has the chance to finish the potion, Elaine alerts Morgaine that Lancelet and her father have slain the dragon, but they were both burned by it. Morgaine tends to the two men and then sets her plan into motion with Elaine. The plan works, and Elaine and Lancelet are married shortly thereafter.
The King Stag, Chapter 6 Analysis
There are several instances of irony throughout this chapter. When Morgaine mentions that Gwenhwyfar was raped by Maleagrant, Elaine finds it scandalous that a man would sleep with his own sister. Little does she realize, or anyone for that matter, that Elaine is talking to someone who did exactly that and bore a son from it. Elaine's reaction is only a fraction of the backlash that Morgaine would experience if the news about Gwydion's parentage was known in Arthur's court. Also, by Morgaine creating a spell to use on Lancelet, she is playing a similar role that Viviane played when it came time for Morgaine to take part in Arthur's kingmaking on Dragon Island. So, while Morgaine rebelled against Viviane for her manipulative ways, Morgaine now does the same thing when she plays matchmaker.
The King Stag, Chapter 7 Summary
It is Pentecost once again, and today Arthur will announce as his heir, Galahad, who is Lancelet's son. This is something that Gwenhwyfar is particularly sensitive about, since she cannot give Arthur an heir. A fight ensues between them Gwenhwyfar and Arthur, and Gwenhwyfar accidentally mentions Arthur's son. Arthur demands to know more, and Gwenhwyfar admits that Morgaine told her. They call Morgaine forth, and she says that it is true that Arthur has a son and that it is their child from his kingmaking on Dragon Island so many years ago. Gwenhwyfar is appalled to hear that brother and sister had a child together and demands that Arthur makes amends for this sin. Although he does not believe he committed any sin, he consents to confessing to a priest and doing penance.
The King Stag, Chapter 7 Analysis
It is in this climactic chapter that Arthur finally discovers that he has a son, and Morgaine is the mother. It is a bittersweet moment for him. He is joyful at the news and sympathetic to Morgaine, who bore the weight of this knowledge all these years. But, at Gwenhwyfar's urging, he is pushed into penance for an act he does not believe a sin. This act of Arthur acquiescing to Gwenhwyfar's urging for his penance is symbolic of his permanent move to separate himself from Avalon, although he does not realize it at this time. For all the reminders and nudges he has had over the years about deserting Avalon, when it is Avalon who put him on the throne, he seems to easily walk away from that which truly supports him. Gwenhwyfar only shows her support when she gets her way, which is usually done by guilting Arthur into submission.
The King Stag, Chapter 8 Summary
Morgaine meets with Accolon and misses mass. After the service, Arthur seeks out the bishop for confession. The high feast is held up until Arthur gets back, which is noticeably late. When he returns, he appears worn, and Lancelet sees it and comments to Gwenhwyfar about it. She brushes it off and says that he is brooding about doing penance. She asks Lancelet if he is happy, and he says as happy as he can be. Lancelet tells Gwenhwyfar that his marriage was a mistake, and that he had believed that Elaine was Gwenhwyfar and then found himself trapped.
As part of the usual Pentecost feast, Arthur also hears petitions from the people. One person who steps forward is King Uriens, who seeks permission to marry again. Arthur suggests Morgaine, and this delights Uriens. When they call Morgaine forth to ask her if she wishes to live in North Wales, Morgaine assumes Arthur is asking about Accolon, Uriens' son, not for Uriens himself. In the confusion, Morgaine agrees to marry the king and is horrified to discover it Urien she will be marrying.
The King Stag, Chapter 8 Analysis
Morgaine sees Accolon outside the church on Pentecost. As they are speaking casually, Accolon talks of his father's wish to remarry, which foreshadows later events of the day. The two of them hit it off splendidly, and there is a distinct attraction between them. Accolon convinces Morgaine that he isn't as young as she thinks he is in an attempt to be with her. It is ironic, then, how the events turn later that same day when Morgaine unwittingly agrees to marry his father, King Uriens.
The King Stag, Chapter 9 Summary
Morgaine has now been in North Wales for about a year. It is almost Midsummer. Accolon returns home, and Morgaine tries to explain about the mix-up at Pentecost. This argument between them, however, is not settled. The household sits down for dinner, and there is robust debate over Britain as a Christian land deposing the pagans. The family is split on the issue of either worshiping the old ways of the Goddess or following Christianity, as much of the land is beginning to do. A large part of the change to Christianity has to do with Arthur publicly renouncing Avalon in support of the church. This sends a clear message to the land. It is a sore spot for many that still follow the Goddess, such as Morgaine, Uriens, and even his son Accolon.
Later that night, Morgaine goes to Accolon in his chambers. After spending the night together, Morgaine feels as though Accolon has aroused in her an anguished memory of her years in Avalon. The next day at Midsummer's, Morgaine and Uriens make their appearance for the festivities and present gifts to the revelers and the spring maiden. Between Accolon's presence and the Midsummer's rituals, Morgaine wants to renew her priestess ways and return to Avalon to claim her rightful place as Lady of the Lake. Little by little, she relearns the ways of Avalon that she forgot from years of neglect.
The King Stag, Chapter 9 Analysis
Morgaine's figurative journey back to Avalon continues. The sight of Accolon once again rouses Morgaine's anguished memory of her years in Avalon. She notices more around her that motivates her to make right all the wrongs that are occurring across the land as it becomes Christian. All these things spur Morgaine toward her goal of reacquainting herself with the ways of Avalon. It is also evident to see how passionate she is about her feelings toward it. It is this passion that she will take with her as she carries out the Goddess' wishes in the future.
The King Stag, Chapter 10 Summary
Kevin visits Avalon and mentions to Niniane that he saw Gwydion fighting alongside the Saxons allied with Arthur. Gwydion wants the battle experience but does so in a way that will avoid Arthur's eyes. The Saxons give Gwydion the name Mordred which means "Evil Counsel." He proves himself to be very good in combat. As Kevin and Niniane continue to talk, it comes out that Niniane has very little of the Sight. She also fights for Gwydion when Kevin questions whether Gwydion is ready to be king of Avalon. Kevin thinks that Niniane is promoting Gwydion because they are lovers. When Gwydion arrives at Avalon a few days before Beltane, he persuades Niniane to be the Spring Maiden to his King Stag. She does not think it is proper, but he talks her into it telling her he has seen it with the Sight.
The King Stag, Chapter 10 Analysis
Niniane's resents being the Lady of the Lake. It is tough for her to know that she is only in her position because of family ties. Though she completed the necessary trials for priestess of rank in Avalon, she rules Avalon without having the Sight, so she is at the mercy of those who do have it. Gwydion is called Mordred which means "Evil Counsel" by the Saxons... it is very telling.
The King Stag, Chapter 11 Summary
It is Pentecost once again at Arthur's court. He reminds Gwenhwyfar that Avalon stands behind him because he bears Excalibur, and she gets angry at him because she thinks he has given up his ties to Avalon. They talk of Lancelet coming to this year's Pentecost, and Gwenhwyfar is once again jealous when she hears that Elaine has given Lancelet yet another child. Gwenhwyfar reflects on the trick that Morgaine played on her and Lancelet when she set Elaine up for marriage with him. It has been years since Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet have been alone together, yet their feelings for each other remain.
At the feast that night, King Uriens asks Arthur to make Uwaine a knight of the RoundTable. This makes Gwenhwyfar jealous that Morgaine has two sons to call her own; it seems an affront to Gwenhwyfar because she is barren. Lancelet talks of his children, and Morgaine expresses her wish to go north to visit them, although Lancelet does not see them very often. Morgaine also suggests to Lancelet that after so many years, and since he is now married, he should leave Gwenhwyfar in peace. He explodes at her and calls her jealous and accuses her of hating Gwenhwyfar ever since they were young girls. Morgaine apologizes for the comment, and they change the subject as Gareth comes over to greet them.
A little later during the feast, there is an interruption when Roman guards burst into the hall. It causes a great deal of unrest amongst Arthur's Companions, and several of them move to attack the intruders, but Arthur stops them. He threatens Lucius with death if he harms any of his Companions. When the Romans depart, Arthur and the knights gather and plan an attack to take Lucius out.
The King Stag, Chapter 11 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar's jealousy permeates this chapter. Given her protected upbringing, she is jealous of women such as Morgaine, who can come and go as they wish. She is jealous of other's appearances and tends to pay close attention to things such as wrinkles and graying hair in others. Most of all, she is jealous of anyone with children. As High Queen, she never gets used to the pressure of not bearing children for Arthur. Whether it is from her upbringing, her faith, or a combination of both, she always sees herself as inferior and is insecure. It is not an uncommon belief among the people that Arthur should put Gwenhwyfar aside for someone who can give him children.
The King Stag, Chapter 12 Summary
Morgaine journeys to Pellinore's castle to visit Elaine and her children. She tells Elaine of the business with the Romans that Arthur and his men are putting down. She also brings up the agreement that she and Elaine had made for her daughter to be schooled in Avalon. Elaine is devastated by Morgaine's insistance that Nimue be schooled in Avalon and had hoped that Morgaine would forget they had made the deal. However, a deal is a deal, and Elaine does not want to become entangled with an Avalon priestess, so she allows Nimue to leave with Morgaine.
This is the first time Morgaine has been in Avalon since before Gwydion was born. As she sleeps, Raven comes into her room and welcomes her back with a silent gesture. The next day, Morgaine goes to see Niniane. Niniane tells Morgaine that Morgaine's work is not finished, and it will be some time before Morgaine can come back permanently to Avalon. Niniane goes on to say that Morgaine will kill for Avalon, and when Morgaine denies it, Niniane sends her forth with a warning. The plans to happen without a struggle. Niniane reminds her of this.
Before Morgaine leaves Avalon again, Gwydion pays her a visit. This is the first time she has seen him since his infancy. She immediately sees a resemblance to Lancelet. Gwydion agrees that he does not take after his father. Rather, he says, he bears the blood of Avalon, and it is apparently so. He predicts that Morgaine will introduce him to Arthur five years into the future, though he knows and understands that Arthur cannot acknowledge him as his heir. She prepares to leave but first gives him her blessing.
The King Stag, Chapter 12 Analysis
While Elaine has to pay the price of her promise, the reader sees the Elaine's influence on her children. Her marriage to Lancelet is a direct result of a love potion; however, Elaine clearly runs a Christian household, which is contrary to the beliefs of Avalon. This is a double standard. She teaches her children that the ways of Avalon are wicked, although she only has children because of a spell by an Avalon priestess. Elaine's children are as pious as she is as though they are trying to make good the sin that Elaine did in tricking Lancelet to marry her.
The King Stag, Chapter 13 Summary
Feeling homesick, Gwydion goes to visit his foster-mother, Morgause, in Lothian. He tells her of Morgaine's visit, and how he thinks that Morgaine looks much older than Morgause. He flatters his foster-mother almost relentlessly. Gwydion feels very much attached to Morgause and seeks her out as a confidant. As he guzzles the beer in front of Morgause, he tells Morgause about his apprehensions of unseating Arthur from his throne. Gwydion sees no good way of doing so, when the people love Arthur so much. If Gwydion suceeds Arthur, he will not be loved, rather, he fears he will be seen as a traitor. He does not look forward to taking on this challenge. He tells Morgaine that he would choose a normal life like everyone else.
The King Stag, Chapter 13 Analysis
Gwydion's words and actions speak volumes about what he is thinking and what the future holds for him. His usually-confident demeanor is shaken, when he learns what is in store for him. Even though he knows little of Arthur, he is taken in by Arthur's spell. The idea that he needs to replace Arthur overwhelms him, and he desires nothing more than to be like everyone else. He also knows that he is going to be the one to rule after Arthur and will have to move the moon and the stars in order to make this possible. This sets the stage for calamitous events to come, i.e., the killing of Niniane and planting of the seeds of doubts in the minds of the Companions.
Gwydion tricks Morgause into throwing a feast and putting on her finery. All day long she senses Gwydion is up to something. What he does not tell her is that, with the Sight, he knows there will be visitors. As he expects, Viviane, Niniane, and Kevin, who is now the Merlin of Britain, come to Lothian to visit with Morgause and Gwydion. When Viviane sees Gwydion, she thinks he resembles Lancelet.
Kevin talks about the news at Arthur's court and tells Morgause how her sons are doing. Viviane comments that she knows Gwydion has the Sight. In conversation, Kevin hints that Gwydion has much to learn in the ways of a priest or a Druid. This gets Gwydion very excited. Then Gwydion overhears a comment by Viviane about there being two royal lines. She goes on to tell him that it takes more than royal blood alone to make a good king, who also needs courage, wisdom, and farsightedness. They speak, however, of Gwydion being the answer for the future, since Arthur is not working out as they hoped. It is during Viviane's visit that Gwydion puts the pieces together and realizes who his father is. Once Viviane sees how strong the Sight is with Gwydion, she decides that he must leave with them at once to go to Avalon.
The King Stag, Chapter 1 Analysis
This chapter sets the stage for Gwydion showing his true colors. Morgaine's child is fast growing into a man. Although strong in the Sight, he keeps this information hidden. This is suggestive that the rest of his personality is quiet, calculating, and manipulative. The only time he is humbled is when he learns that those from Avalon can see right through his act. Gwydion proves to be a smart boy with hints that his intelligence and wit will come to use down the road. However, there is a sense of trepidation over Gwydion being schooled in Avalon given his personality. If he is schooled in Avalon, then he will learn to use the powers he already has; this, mixed with his secretive side, may lead to something climactic years down the road.
The King Stag, Chapter 2 Summary
Arthur's court prepares for the Pentecost feast. Morgaine is anxious to see Kevin, but still has feelings for Lancelet. Kevin arrives and tells Morgaine that he rode with Gwydion to Avalon. He tells her that he will be schooled in Avalon as a Druid. After his training, things must go as they will, but Kevin believes that Gwydion will make a bard and a notable wise man. Kevin and Morgaine go to the feast on Pentecost eve, where Gareth is preparing to become knighted by Lancelet.
The fanfare at the feast table becomes boisterous, as Gawaine makes a jest about Lancelet's devotion to the queen. Arthur settles the dispute, but Lancelet walks away, his feathers ruffled. Later in the evening, Morgaine stops to speak to Lancelet and asks him what is bothering him. He confesses everything to Morgaine--his love for Gwenhwyfar and the night he spent with her and Arthur in bed. Since he cannot be with his true love, he feels tortured to the point where he wants Arthur to send him away on some quest.
The King Stag, Chapter 2 Analysis
When Morgaine leaves Avalon while pregnant with Gwydion, she first works through her anger at Viviane, but then needs to work through her guilt over leaving Avalon. For a time, the two emotions are conflicted within her. She still feels anger over Viviane's actions that gave Morgaine this pregnancy. She also knows that she left Avalon of her own free will but feels guilty because she knows that her place is back there. In the same token, it is not yet time for her to return, and so she thinks about marriage because it is refreshing to love someone so simply. However, a vision comes to her later, which causes her to question her future. If the Sight has returned to her, she feels it must be a sign that Avalon will eventually welcome her. Time will tell.
The King Stag, Chapter 3 Summary
It is Pentecost and everyone at Camelot is preparing for the day's festivities. The day begins with a church service, and immediately afterward, Lancelet knights Gareth. When Morgaine approaches Gareth to give him a gift, he slips and makes a comment to her about how her son Gwydion has grown. Gwenhwyfar overhears the comment but promises Morgaine she will not say anything to Arthur. Nothing is mentioned as to who is Gwydion's father.
As Morgaine leaves the games and goes inside, where she sees that Viviane has arrived, so Morgaine goes to her immediately. It is at this moment that Morgaine realizes that she does indeed have the Sight, and that it never really left her. They catch up on each other's lives, and Viviane tells Morgaine about the visit Viviane had with Gwydion in Lothian before he came to Avalon. Viviane hints that Gwydion can be used to threaten Arthur and that there is another with the Pendragon blood that will uphold the oath that Arthur has broken. Viviane goes on to say, however, that it is still too early to know what will happen. Viviane then asks Morgaine to return with her to Avalon to fulfill her role as the Lady of the Lake. Morgaine is happy for the invitation and agrees to go with Viviane the next day.
That night at the feast, there is commotion in the hall as Maleagrant, Gwenhwyfar's half-brother, petitions the king to let him rule in King Loedengranz's stead, since the king is dead. Arthur and his Companions urge Maleagrant to come back at another time for this petition. Viviane takes her place as the next petitioner before the king and starts to remind Arthur of his oath to Avalon. Another commotion breaks out, as Balin steps forward, and, using the sword that Maleagrant left behind, swings at Viviane's head and splits it wide open at the foot of Arthur's throne. He exclaims that he is doing justice, since he feels that Viviane murdered his dying mother. Arthur is furious and casts Balin out of his court. As his penance, he is instructed to make a pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Lands, but he never makes it. Balan intercepts him on the way and kills him with one stroke of the sword, and he, too, takes a wound that causes his death later the same day. Arthur has Viviane laid to rest at Glastonbury on the Holy Isle, but this infuriates Morgaine because this is a Christian site. When Kevin upholds the decision, it causes a rift between him and Morgaine.
The King Stag, Chapter 3 Analysis
Morgaine's journey back to Avalon does not come without cost to her. Each step she takes toward it only adds to her loneliness. Viviane's death is merely one part of that, although it hits her very hard. Kevin's decision also baffles her. Morgaine sees this move by Kevin as traitorous. While Kevin's move to support Arthur creates a rift between him and Morgaine, it also symbolizes the start on his path of destruction. Viviane's death can also be seen as timely, since Morgaine was not pressing Arthur to honor his promise to Avalon. While in years past, Taliesin and Kevin had approached Arthur about it, Viviane, too, is now unsuccessful with it. However, this both gives Morgaine the mission carry on and a solid reason to return to her priestess roots.
The King Stag, Chapter 4 Summary
Maleagrant invites Gwenhwyfar to go to him to settle their dispute. Arthur is currently away, so she seeks to go alone with one lady and a chamberlain. At Cai's urging, she also brings along Ectorius and Lucan. Morgaine senses that something is amiss and wants to go along for added protection, but Gwenhwyfar will not allow it. They proceed and arrive at her old home after the brief journey. Maleagrant manages to separate Gwenhwyfar from her party and locks her into her old room, which is in a state of disrepair, since no one has lived in it since before she was married. Now she regrets not taking more attendants with her, and she knows that Morgaine was right to be afraid for her.
Hours later, Maleagrant bursts into the room and rapes her with the intent of begetting an heir and ruining Gwenhwyfar for Arthur, so he will cast her aside. Shamed and beaten, Gwenhwyfar panics over her now uncertain future. After several more hours, Gwenhwyfar hears a commotion in the courtyard below, and Maleagrant comes once more into her room to take her to a more secure location. Before he can do so, someone hits his head from behind, and he is killed instantly. As he drops to the floor, Gwenhwyfar sees Lancelet standing there. Lancelet is broken hearted when he sees how Gwenhwyfar is so badly beaten. In a rare guilt-free moment, Gwenhwyfar decides to make love to Lancelet and feels no remorse for it. She feels that if her prayers go thus unanswered and bad things still happen, then she can give in to this sin with no regrets.
The King Stag, Chapter 4 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar has an interesting change of heart, although it is only temporary. Gwenhwyfar has spent her entire life praying and doing penance to keep her conscience clear of any wrongdoing. She is an over-pious Christian and believes that God will give her all that she prays for, if she is free of sin. This makes her current predicament under Maleagrant's imprisonment that much more baffling to her. All the praying and confession does nothing to avert this situation for her. It is her futile effort at praying that leads her into Lancelet's arms at the end of the chapter. She figures that if she lives by God's laws and prays and is devout, then God would protect her, but this is not the case. This event is momentous for Gwenhwyfar because when it comes to Lancelet, she decides that she will never again hide her love for him.
The King Stag, Chapter 5 Summary
It is the day after Gwenhwyfar returns home from her ordeal with Maleagrant. Morgaine and Elaine are preparing for the start of their day. Elaine wishes aloud that Lancelet were her husband. Morgaine tells her that it is not a good idea to go after him, since his heart is so committed to Gwenhwyfar. Elaine coaxes Morgaine into making a spell that will turn Lancelet to her, so that he will marry Elaine. After trying to talk her out of it unsuccessfully, Morgaine agrees to make the charm provided Elaine offers her first daughter to be brought up in Avalon. In a rush of emotion and excitement, Elaine agrees.
Morgaine knows that in order for this spell to work, she needs to get Lancelet away from court. When she has the opportunity to speak with him alone, she convinces him that his pining for Gwenhwyfar will be the end of him, and that he really should go from court. Lancelet finally agrees that going on some quest would do him some good. At dinner that night, he suggests this to Arthur, who chooses that he join King Pellinore in slaying the dragon they have been hunting for years. Lancelet believes the dragon is folly and is afraid that he is being kept from court indefinitely, but Arthur assures him a spot whenever he is ready to come back. As Arthur permits Lancelet to leave, Elaine asks to go home to be with her father, and Morgaine as asks to go with Elaine, claiming that the area in the vicinity of Elaine's home has herbs that are useful to her. Arthur grants permission for them to all go as they wish.
The King Stag, Chapter 5 Analysis
There are those in Arthur's court who write off Avalon as a place where witches and sorcerers live, although those same people have double standards. This can be said of Elaine, who, after talking with Morgaine, asks Morgaine to cast a spell that will entrap Lancelet into marrying her. One the one hand, Elaine sees Morgaine as a witch ,who comes from the evil land of Avalon, but on the other, she sees Morgaine as someone that Elaine can use. This does not come without its price, however. As payment, Elaine agrees to hand over her first daughter to Morgaine for schooling at Avalon. This is an arrangement that comes back to haunt Elaine.
The King Stag, Chapter 6 Summary
Morgaine tries to talk Elaine out of going through with her plan about Lancelet one more time before Morgaine makes the love potion. Elaine assures Morgaine that she Lancelet as her husband, so Morgaine continues. She blends herbs into some wine that Lancelet will drink later. It will make him believe that Elaine is Gwenhwyfar, and, when he goes to Elaine, he will make love to her. Once that is done, he will see that it is Elaine. Morgaine's plan is then for King Pellinore to discover them, so that Lancelet will be forced to marry Elaine. Before Morgaine has the chance to finish the potion, Elaine alerts Morgaine that Lancelet and her father have slain the dragon, but they were both burned by it. Morgaine tends to the two men and then sets her plan into motion with Elaine. The plan works, and Elaine and Lancelet are married shortly thereafter.
The King Stag, Chapter 6 Analysis
There are several instances of irony throughout this chapter. When Morgaine mentions that Gwenhwyfar was raped by Maleagrant, Elaine finds it scandalous that a man would sleep with his own sister. Little does she realize, or anyone for that matter, that Elaine is talking to someone who did exactly that and bore a son from it. Elaine's reaction is only a fraction of the backlash that Morgaine would experience if the news about Gwydion's parentage was known in Arthur's court. Also, by Morgaine creating a spell to use on Lancelet, she is playing a similar role that Viviane played when it came time for Morgaine to take part in Arthur's kingmaking on Dragon Island. So, while Morgaine rebelled against Viviane for her manipulative ways, Morgaine now does the same thing when she plays matchmaker.
The King Stag, Chapter 7 Summary
It is Pentecost once again, and today Arthur will announce as his heir, Galahad, who is Lancelet's son. This is something that Gwenhwyfar is particularly sensitive about, since she cannot give Arthur an heir. A fight ensues between them Gwenhwyfar and Arthur, and Gwenhwyfar accidentally mentions Arthur's son. Arthur demands to know more, and Gwenhwyfar admits that Morgaine told her. They call Morgaine forth, and she says that it is true that Arthur has a son and that it is their child from his kingmaking on Dragon Island so many years ago. Gwenhwyfar is appalled to hear that brother and sister had a child together and demands that Arthur makes amends for this sin. Although he does not believe he committed any sin, he consents to confessing to a priest and doing penance.
The King Stag, Chapter 7 Analysis
It is in this climactic chapter that Arthur finally discovers that he has a son, and Morgaine is the mother. It is a bittersweet moment for him. He is joyful at the news and sympathetic to Morgaine, who bore the weight of this knowledge all these years. But, at Gwenhwyfar's urging, he is pushed into penance for an act he does not believe a sin. This act of Arthur acquiescing to Gwenhwyfar's urging for his penance is symbolic of his permanent move to separate himself from Avalon, although he does not realize it at this time. For all the reminders and nudges he has had over the years about deserting Avalon, when it is Avalon who put him on the throne, he seems to easily walk away from that which truly supports him. Gwenhwyfar only shows her support when she gets her way, which is usually done by guilting Arthur into submission.
The King Stag, Chapter 8 Summary
Morgaine meets with Accolon and misses mass. After the service, Arthur seeks out the bishop for confession. The high feast is held up until Arthur gets back, which is noticeably late. When he returns, he appears worn, and Lancelet sees it and comments to Gwenhwyfar about it. She brushes it off and says that he is brooding about doing penance. She asks Lancelet if he is happy, and he says as happy as he can be. Lancelet tells Gwenhwyfar that his marriage was a mistake, and that he had believed that Elaine was Gwenhwyfar and then found himself trapped.
As part of the usual Pentecost feast, Arthur also hears petitions from the people. One person who steps forward is King Uriens, who seeks permission to marry again. Arthur suggests Morgaine, and this delights Uriens. When they call Morgaine forth to ask her if she wishes to live in North Wales, Morgaine assumes Arthur is asking about Accolon, Uriens' son, not for Uriens himself. In the confusion, Morgaine agrees to marry the king and is horrified to discover it Urien she will be marrying.
The King Stag, Chapter 8 Analysis
Morgaine sees Accolon outside the church on Pentecost. As they are speaking casually, Accolon talks of his father's wish to remarry, which foreshadows later events of the day. The two of them hit it off splendidly, and there is a distinct attraction between them. Accolon convinces Morgaine that he isn't as young as she thinks he is in an attempt to be with her. It is ironic, then, how the events turn later that same day when Morgaine unwittingly agrees to marry his father, King Uriens.
The King Stag, Chapter 9 Summary
Morgaine has now been in North Wales for about a year. It is almost Midsummer. Accolon returns home, and Morgaine tries to explain about the mix-up at Pentecost. This argument between them, however, is not settled. The household sits down for dinner, and there is robust debate over Britain as a Christian land deposing the pagans. The family is split on the issue of either worshiping the old ways of the Goddess or following Christianity, as much of the land is beginning to do. A large part of the change to Christianity has to do with Arthur publicly renouncing Avalon in support of the church. This sends a clear message to the land. It is a sore spot for many that still follow the Goddess, such as Morgaine, Uriens, and even his son Accolon.
Later that night, Morgaine goes to Accolon in his chambers. After spending the night together, Morgaine feels as though Accolon has aroused in her an anguished memory of her years in Avalon. The next day at Midsummer's, Morgaine and Uriens make their appearance for the festivities and present gifts to the revelers and the spring maiden. Between Accolon's presence and the Midsummer's rituals, Morgaine wants to renew her priestess ways and return to Avalon to claim her rightful place as Lady of the Lake. Little by little, she relearns the ways of Avalon that she forgot from years of neglect.
The King Stag, Chapter 9 Analysis
Morgaine's figurative journey back to Avalon continues. The sight of Accolon once again rouses Morgaine's anguished memory of her years in Avalon. She notices more around her that motivates her to make right all the wrongs that are occurring across the land as it becomes Christian. All these things spur Morgaine toward her goal of reacquainting herself with the ways of Avalon. It is also evident to see how passionate she is about her feelings toward it. It is this passion that she will take with her as she carries out the Goddess' wishes in the future.
The King Stag, Chapter 10 Summary
Kevin visits Avalon and mentions to Niniane that he saw Gwydion fighting alongside the Saxons allied with Arthur. Gwydion wants the battle experience but does so in a way that will avoid Arthur's eyes. The Saxons give Gwydion the name Mordred which means "Evil Counsel." He proves himself to be very good in combat. As Kevin and Niniane continue to talk, it comes out that Niniane has very little of the Sight. She also fights for Gwydion when Kevin questions whether Gwydion is ready to be king of Avalon. Kevin thinks that Niniane is promoting Gwydion because they are lovers. When Gwydion arrives at Avalon a few days before Beltane, he persuades Niniane to be the Spring Maiden to his King Stag. She does not think it is proper, but he talks her into it telling her he has seen it with the Sight.
The King Stag, Chapter 10 Analysis
Niniane's resents being the Lady of the Lake. It is tough for her to know that she is only in her position because of family ties. Though she completed the necessary trials for priestess of rank in Avalon, she rules Avalon without having the Sight, so she is at the mercy of those who do have it. Gwydion is called Mordred which means "Evil Counsel" by the Saxons... it is very telling.
The King Stag, Chapter 11 Summary
It is Pentecost once again at Arthur's court. He reminds Gwenhwyfar that Avalon stands behind him because he bears Excalibur, and she gets angry at him because she thinks he has given up his ties to Avalon. They talk of Lancelet coming to this year's Pentecost, and Gwenhwyfar is once again jealous when she hears that Elaine has given Lancelet yet another child. Gwenhwyfar reflects on the trick that Morgaine played on her and Lancelet when she set Elaine up for marriage with him. It has been years since Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet have been alone together, yet their feelings for each other remain.
At the feast that night, King Uriens asks Arthur to make Uwaine a knight of the RoundTable. This makes Gwenhwyfar jealous that Morgaine has two sons to call her own; it seems an affront to Gwenhwyfar because she is barren. Lancelet talks of his children, and Morgaine expresses her wish to go north to visit them, although Lancelet does not see them very often. Morgaine also suggests to Lancelet that after so many years, and since he is now married, he should leave Gwenhwyfar in peace. He explodes at her and calls her jealous and accuses her of hating Gwenhwyfar ever since they were young girls. Morgaine apologizes for the comment, and they change the subject as Gareth comes over to greet them.
A little later during the feast, there is an interruption when Roman guards burst into the hall. It causes a great deal of unrest amongst Arthur's Companions, and several of them move to attack the intruders, but Arthur stops them. He threatens Lucius with death if he harms any of his Companions. When the Romans depart, Arthur and the knights gather and plan an attack to take Lucius out.
The King Stag, Chapter 11 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar's jealousy permeates this chapter. Given her protected upbringing, she is jealous of women such as Morgaine, who can come and go as they wish. She is jealous of other's appearances and tends to pay close attention to things such as wrinkles and graying hair in others. Most of all, she is jealous of anyone with children. As High Queen, she never gets used to the pressure of not bearing children for Arthur. Whether it is from her upbringing, her faith, or a combination of both, she always sees herself as inferior and is insecure. It is not an uncommon belief among the people that Arthur should put Gwenhwyfar aside for someone who can give him children.
The King Stag, Chapter 12 Summary
Morgaine journeys to Pellinore's castle to visit Elaine and her children. She tells Elaine of the business with the Romans that Arthur and his men are putting down. She also brings up the agreement that she and Elaine had made for her daughter to be schooled in Avalon. Elaine is devastated by Morgaine's insistance that Nimue be schooled in Avalon and had hoped that Morgaine would forget they had made the deal. However, a deal is a deal, and Elaine does not want to become entangled with an Avalon priestess, so she allows Nimue to leave with Morgaine.
This is the first time Morgaine has been in Avalon since before Gwydion was born. As she sleeps, Raven comes into her room and welcomes her back with a silent gesture. The next day, Morgaine goes to see Niniane. Niniane tells Morgaine that Morgaine's work is not finished, and it will be some time before Morgaine can come back permanently to Avalon. Niniane goes on to say that Morgaine will kill for Avalon, and when Morgaine denies it, Niniane sends her forth with a warning. The plans to happen without a struggle. Niniane reminds her of this.
Before Morgaine leaves Avalon again, Gwydion pays her a visit. This is the first time she has seen him since his infancy. She immediately sees a resemblance to Lancelet. Gwydion agrees that he does not take after his father. Rather, he says, he bears the blood of Avalon, and it is apparently so. He predicts that Morgaine will introduce him to Arthur five years into the future, though he knows and understands that Arthur cannot acknowledge him as his heir. She prepares to leave but first gives him her blessing.
The King Stag, Chapter 12 Analysis
While Elaine has to pay the price of her promise, the reader sees the Elaine's influence on her children. Her marriage to Lancelet is a direct result of a love potion; however, Elaine clearly runs a Christian household, which is contrary to the beliefs of Avalon. This is a double standard. She teaches her children that the ways of Avalon are wicked, although she only has children because of a spell by an Avalon priestess. Elaine's children are as pious as she is as though they are trying to make good the sin that Elaine did in tricking Lancelet to marry her.
The King Stag, Chapter 13 Summary
Feeling homesick, Gwydion goes to visit his foster-mother, Morgause, in Lothian. He tells her of Morgaine's visit, and how he thinks that Morgaine looks much older than Morgause. He flatters his foster-mother almost relentlessly. Gwydion feels very much attached to Morgause and seeks her out as a confidant. As he guzzles the beer in front of Morgause, he tells Morgause about his apprehensions of unseating Arthur from his throne. Gwydion sees no good way of doing so, when the people love Arthur so much. If Gwydion suceeds Arthur, he will not be loved, rather, he fears he will be seen as a traitor. He does not look forward to taking on this challenge. He tells Morgaine that he would choose a normal life like everyone else.
The King Stag, Chapter 13 Analysis
Gwydion's words and actions speak volumes about what he is thinking and what the future holds for him. His usually-confident demeanor is shaken, when he learns what is in store for him. Even though he knows little of Arthur, he is taken in by Arthur's spell. The idea that he needs to replace Arthur overwhelms him, and he desires nothing more than to be like everyone else. He also knows that he is going to be the one to rule after Arthur and will have to move the moon and the stars in order to make this possible. This sets the stage for calamitous events to come, i.e., the killing of Niniane and planting of the seeds of doubts in the minds of the Companions.