The High Queen
The High Queen, Chapter 1 Summary
It is now wintertime in Lothian, and Morgaine is heavy with child. Morgause constantly chides Morgaine for not taking better care of herself and forces her to eat fresh meat at dinner. After the meal, Morgaine's water breaks and Morgause sends her off with the midwives to begin the lying-in. After Morgaine leaves, Lot reminds Morgause that Morgaine's child will be competition for their son, Gawaine, to be next in line to the throne of the High King. With much persuasion, Lot convinces Morgause to keep Morgaine's child from her once it is born. Morgause knows that if someone else fosters the child, Morgaine will never a bond with it and will be able to let it go.
Morgaine's labor lasts for many hours, and it is very painful and difficult for her. During the many hours of Morgaine's labor, Morgause tries to get information from her regarding the baby's father. Morgaine had all along been tight-lipped about it, and Morgause can not understand the secrecy behind it. Still, Morgaine would say nothing about the father. After Morgaine has her son, Morgause notes how like Lancelet he looks, and she wonders if indeed the child is Lancelet's. Still, Morgause did not understand why Morgaine would have Lancelet's child in secrecy, since it would have been no great scandal.
After Morgaine wakes, she asks to see her son and Morgause refuses her and whisks him away, claiming that Morgaine needs all her strength to recover. Morgause takes Gwydion to a wet nurse and decides to foster the boy herself. Later when she's alone, she uses what she has of the Sight and makes a spell to see for herself who Gwydion's father is. She is startled to see that it is Arthur and understands instantly why Morgaine is so secretive about it; it would be scandalous if anyone found out. Morgaine discovers Morgause is using the Sight and demands that Morgause swears not to say a word about his heritage to anyone. Since Morgause does not want to be cursed by a priestess of Avalon, she agrees.
The High Queen, Chapter 1 Analysis
Morgause's ambition for her son Gawaine outweighs her maternal instincts. After a conversation with Lot makes her think about Gawaine's position to the throne, Morgause decides not to let Morgaine nurse Gwydion. She knows that if Morgaine raises her son, than she will fight for him to take the throne in the event that Arthur dies. If this happens, then it will displace Gawaine from his position. Morgause insists that Gwydion be raised under her supervision, so that she and Lot can keep a close eye on him and influence him as he grows. This is exactly what happens when, in the future, it is Morgause that Gwydion turns to, not his natural mother. Since Morgaine never nurses Gwydion a bond is never formed. This foreshadows future events where Morgaine's sinister side emerges.
The High Queen, Chapter 2 Summary
Gwenhwyfar sits on the garden wall and is terrified to be outside. All her life she has been terrified of being outside and can remember the only time she felt safe was when she was at the convent growing up. As she sits, she watches as Lancelet gallops on horseback into the courtyard below her. He puts on a display for her father, King Loedengranz, to show how the horses can be trained and ridden into combat. The king will not, however, allow Lancelet to train the horses for battle because he has not sworn allegiance to Arthur as he had to Uther.
Gwenhwyfar changes into her best gown to impress Lancelet as she goes in to serve the wine. Lancelet remembers her immediately from the day he and Morgaine rescued her from the waters. King Loedegranz beseeches Lancelet to have Arthur himself come and look at the horses. When Lancelet leaves, her father tells Gwenhwyfar that he is trying to arrange a marriage between her and Arthur. The thought terrifies her only because she is afraid to be High Queen. Her father then reminds her that she is afraid of everything anyway.
The High Queen, Chapter 2 Analysis
During a conversation with Lancelet, Gwenhwyfar suggests that she is not wise. She says that the women on Avalon are evil witches, which Lancelet says is rubbish. He feels that only ignorant women would say that they are sorceresses. Although Gwenhwyfar admits to being ignorant, it seems that Lancelet pays the comment no mind. Unfortunately, this comment is very telling since in the future, this argument continues to arise and Gwenhwyfar's feelings on the matter do not change. Gwenhwyfar remains so steadfast in her beliefs about the priestesses of Avalon that it is because of her that Arthur eventually forsakes Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 3 Summary
Arthur and the Merlin go to visit Igraine at the convent where she has lived since Uther's death. Before their arrival, Igraine uses the Sight and hears Morgaine calling out to her during labor. She does not know where Morgaine is, but she can tell she is not at Avalon. When Arthur arrives, Igraine asks him where Morgaine is, and he tells her that she has gone to Lothian, but he knows nothing about the birth of their child. Since Archbishop Patricius is also present with Arthur and the Merlin, she does not ask any further questions.
Arthur goes on to explain that he is to marry Gwenhwyfar, although he cannot remember her name at that moment. He is not as concerned about the marriage as he is about the dowry he is to receive, which are horses and men from King Loedegranz. Arthur needs this dowry in order to launch a successful offensive against the Saxons. Arthur asks his mother if she is willing to go with Lancelet to bring Gwenhwyfar to Caerleon for the wedding. Igraine agrees to go once the abbess gives her permission.
The High Queen, Chapter 3 Analysis
Archbishop Patricius makes a comment that Arthur would not be able to wed one of Morgause's daughters if she had any, since it would be like wedding one's sister. Patricius says it is not to be thought of. Arthur remarks that he would be interested in Gawaine's sister, if he had one, though it would not be allowed. Little does Arthur realize that his own sister did give birth to his child. He is devastated when he finds out later, since he knows that his son will not be able to ascend to the throne because of his parentage. Arthur then says that he is set to marry Gwenhwyfar, though he does not remember her name at that time. He asks Igraine to go and escort his bride to Caerleon for the wedding. He offers to send Lancelet as a guide, since he feels that Gawaine might try to take advantage of the girl. It is ironic that Arthur makes this decision, since it is Lancelet who is enamored of Gwenhwyfar and she of him. Gawaine would be the better choice.
The High Queen, Chapter 4 Summary
Igraine goes to meet Gwenhwyfar and bring her to Caerleon for the wedding. As they start out, Igraine sees how terrified Gwenhwyfar is to travel and mistakes it for wedding jitters. Gwenhwyfar is partially nervous about the wedding, but she is also afraid of traveling outside her home. With Lancelet along for the journey, Gwenhwyfar begins to loosen up a little and relax. Igraine notices the spark between the two and has immediate suspicions about what will happen in the future. Gwenhwyfar does confess to Igraine that she is nervous over whether or not Arthur will love her for more than just her dowry, and if she will please him. From the beginning, though, the seeds are planted that create doubt in Gwenhwyfar's mind over whether Arthur really loves her, or if he is only marrying because he has to. Secretly, Gwenhwyfar wishes she were marrying Lancelet.
They reach Caerleon and Arthur warmly welcomes his bride. He feeds into Gwenhwyfar's doubts when he mentions the rich dowry that comes along with her. As he brings her into the castle and they talk, he expresses his desire to have her rule at his side. This thought terrifies Gwenhwyfar. Igraine asks that they have some time to rest and freshen up. Arthur introduces Cai and tells Gwenhwyfar to give whatever orders she sees fit on where to place her belongings. When she does, she gathers enough strength and calm to do so with authority, which surprises even her.
The High Queen, Chapter 4 Analysis
Lancelet showers Gwenhwyfar with lavish flattery that Igraine is witness to. She immediately senses that there is love between Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet and is rightly worried about her son and the throne. Igraine's sense of foreboding is an accurate one, since this banter between Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet set the stage for emotional turbulence later. Igraine also feels that the love between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar is going to be the downfall of Arthur's reign. It may be so; if Arthur marries someone else, then his allegiance to Avalon may never come into question later on.
The High Queen, Chapter 5 Summary
Igraine prepares Gwenhwyfar for the wedding and wonders momentarily if Arthur chose this bride wisely. Gwenhwyfar is young and beautiful, but Igraine finds her to be too shy and retiring for such a demanding role as High Queen. As Lancelet walks Gwenhwyfar to the church for the ceremony, Igraine once again sees the connection between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar and gets a bad feeling over it. She has a premonition that the marriage will only come to misery.
Balan comes to relieve Lancelet to go to Arthur for preparation. Gwenhwyfar sees in Lancelet's eyes that Lancelet does not want to leave her side. In the few days she has spent with him, she already feels connected to him in a way that she does not understand. Igraine excuses herself to speak with the Merlin before the mass. When she approaches Merlin, Igraine asks if there is any way for Arthur to gracefully break the marriage promise to Gwenhwyfar. Igraine explains about Lancelet, which comes as no surprise to Merlin. Merlin knows, however, that there is no way for Arthur to honorably bow out of the wedding. Things will have to go as they will, and they need to accept it. When the services begin as scheduled, Igraine catches a glimpse of Morgaine next to Morgause on the other side of the church.
The High Queen, Chapter 5 Analysis
Igraine's sense of foreboding continues. She still feels the despairing awareness that Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's marriage will come to no good and there will only be misery. This again foreshadows the future. Since Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar feel this strongly now, it will only grow stronger in the future. Not only is this a source of Igraine's distress, but the marriage is also doomed as it is because it is due to Gwenhwyfar that Arthur forsakes Avalon. Igraine seeks the Merlin to put a stop to the wedding, but it is too late, and he is unable to do anything. Arthur must marry Gwenhwyfar.
The High Queen, Chapter 6 Summary
Morgaine is bored as she sits with Morgause during the wedding mass. She does not know who Arthur's bride is but wishes Arthur nothing but happiness. As she looks around the church, she sees Kevin the Bard and her mother, who she is happy to see. After the service, Morgaine approaches Arthur on the receiving line and comes face-to-face with Gwenhwyfar after several years. They immediately recognize each other. Morgaine also notices the way Lancelet looks at Gwenhwyfar--like a hungry dog looks at a dripping bone. Gwenhwyfar, however, charms Morgaine into forgetting about Lancelet for the time being. She also graciously accepts Morgaine into service as a lady-in-waiting.
When speaking to Kevin, Morgaine asked how Viviane is doing. He tells her that she is fine, but aging. He also tells her that he mourns Morgaine's absence from Avalon and beseeches her to return. She tells him that she cannot. Kevin tells her how the Merlin spoke to Arthur about backing out of the wedding, though he did not know why. Morgaine, however, knew what the Merlin was getting at; she had seen the way Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar looked at each other. After all these years, Morgaine still feels the pangs of jealousy from the day that she feels Gwenhwyfar stole Lancelet from her. Morgaine still has a soft spot in her heart for Lancelet.
Later, Morgaine accompanies Lancelet to check the horses for Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's departure. Together they reminisce about their days in Avalon. Morgaine tries to keep his mind off of Gwenhwyfar. He seeks an unbroken horse to take out as a demonstration, and Gawaine warns him, but Lancelet pays him no mind. He and Morgaine find a quiet spot to be alone. She knows he is only trying to take his mind off Gwenhwyfar, but Morgaine accepts this. They are interrupted, and Lancelet swears to Morgaine that they will meet again later in the night. However, when Lancelet is injured by the unbroken horse, the plans are ruined. Morgaine spends the night caring for Lancelet's wounds.
The High Queen, Chapter 6 Analysis
Morgaine discovers that Arthur's bride is none other than Gwenhwyfar. Although she still feels the old hatred toward Gwenhwyfar, she is happy to see her marry someone other than Lancelet. Morgaine does, however, see the glances exchanged between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar and knows something is going on. Still, Morgaine feels relief that Arthur is married now to another, and the feelings Arthur has for Morgaine will hopefully go away once he beds Gwenhwyfar. What Morgaine does not realize is that it is this hold she has over Arthur, which is crucial to his keeping his solemn oath to Avalon. Morgaine can take advantage of these feelings, but she chooses for Arthur to be rid of them permanently. Strangely, she does not have the foresight to know the hold she has on Arthur as she should.
The High Queen, Chapter 7 Summary
It is now two years after Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's wedding. Morgaine sits with Gwenhwyfar's other ladies-in-waiting at Caerleon late in the summer, as the men are off fighting the Saxons. She and the ladies are spinning and Morgaine begins to drift off into a trance. When the women try to snap her out of it, Morgaine is saying that there is blood on the hearth, before the King's high seat, slain like a slaughtered sheep. When she comes to, she has no recollection of what she saw.
Using the Sight again, Morgaine sees the men coming home from their latest battles. When the men come home, the feast is already prepared. Morgaine sits with Balan and they talk of Lancelet. Balan mentions that Lancelet looks like he has a heavy heart. Though Morgaine knows why, she does not tell Balan. Balan says lightly that Lancelet should get married and why not to Morgaine? When Morgaine answers enthusiastically, it surprises Balan. The conversation shifts when Arthur talks of building a new castle for them. It would be a place bigger and better than Caerleon.
Later that night as Arthur and Gwenhwyfar go to their chamber, he suggests to her that Lancelet should get married to Morgaine. Gwenhwyfar immediately protests, to Arthur's surprise. To cover up her jealousy, Gwenhwyfar speaks of Lancelet marrying a pagan if he marries Morgaine, and she does not want that at her court. Arthur then lets the issue drop. While Arthur and Gwenhwyfar are discussing Morgaine and Lancelet, Morgaine uses the Sight to find Lancelet and goes to him outside. They find themselves at the point that they were at during Arthur's wedding. However, at the last minute, Lancelet changes his mind and sees that making love to Morgaine would be a sin. This angers Morgaine to the point that she decides to leave Arthur's court. Shortly after that, Morgaine leaves with the intention of returning to Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 7 Analysis
After two years of marriage, Gwenhwyfar still shows no sign of bearing Arthur a child. Gossip suggests that Morgaine supplies Gwenhwyfar with a charm that will make her conceive. The rocky start to Gwenhwyfar's childbearing issues leaves deeper roots than is originally understood. This signals the start of serious trouble to come, as Gwenhwyfar fights off accepting any kind of charm from Morgaine, who she views as a sorceress and a pagan. Morgaine knows that barrenness for Gwenhwyfar is a heavy burden to bear, or any queen for that matter. Arthur must have an heir to his throne. Thus begins Gwenhwyfar's desperation.
The High Queen, Chapter 8 Summary
During the next summer, Arthur and his soldiers fight against the Saxons, and Arthur is wounded. Since he carries Excalibur, the wound does not bleed heavily, but it festers for months afterward. As the winter approaches, Arthur still lies in bed convalescing. Gwenhwyfar still feels the sting from her own miscarriage months before. This is not the first time she has miscarried. Now she feels guilty for it, as though it is her fault. Since she feels it might be punishment for her feelings towards Lancelet, she goes to confession to be absolved of the sin. The priest forgives her and lets her go unpunished.
After a day when Arthur is well enough to be out of bed, Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar both help put him in bed. The feelings between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar are as strong as they have ever been, and the tension is great. Lancelet helps Gwenhwyfar with Arthur, then leaves. Arthur pulls Gwenhwyfar aside and gives her permission to go to bed with Lancelet, if that will mean she bears a son for the kingdom. Since Gwenhwyfar has been unable to have a child successfully with Arthur, he thinks that it might be his fault and they need have an heir. It doesn't matter to Arthur who the father is; he will love the child regardless. That night as she goes to sleep, Gwenhwyfar secretly wishes for Morgaine to return to the court so that Morgaine can give her a charm to help her conceive with Arthur.
The High Queen, Chapter 8 Analysis
The pressure continues to mount for Gwenhwyfar to conceive, as Arthur now joins in by giving her permission to bed Lancelet. Although Gwenhwyfar sees this as Arthur wanting a son more than he wants her, it also shows how much he does love his wife. He explains that he sees the way she and Lancelet look at each other and feels that this would be something they would both want. Since he loves the both of them dearly, he would openly accept a child of that union as his own. The three of them share a unique love, and, for Arthur, if Gwenhwyfar has a child by Lancelet, it would bind them even tighter. So Arthur does not only see this as a way to have an heir, but as a way to keep those he loves even closer to him.
The High Queen, Chapter 9 Summary
Viviane goes on a journey and thinks about Morgaine. Viviane does not know where Morgaine is, and this disturbs Viviane. The Sight is erratic in her now. She continues her trip going to visit Gawan, since Priscilla is sick. They are the foster-parents to her son, Balan. Priscilla is very ill, and Viviane knows she will die soon. With Priscilla's permission with the family present, Viviane gives Priscilla something to end her pain and suffering. Their own son, Balin, is too grieved to understand what Viviane is doing. After Priscilla dies shortly thereafter, Balin explodes in rage against Viviane and is convinced that she is a murderer and sorceress. Balan tells Viviane that Balin just needs time to grieve his mother's loss, and in time he will come around.
Viviane does not stay for Priscilla to be buried. She explains to Gawan and Balan that she needs to return to Avalon right away. As she rides, she thinks of Morgaine and how it is Morgaine's rightful place to be the new Lady of the Lake, since Viviane knows she is long overdue in giving up the position. When Viviane arrives in Avalon, she tells one of the attendant priestesses to send for Taliesin's daughter, Niniane, in three days' time. When Niniane arrives, Viviane questions her about the Sight. Niniane does not know if she has it. Viviane then takes Niniane to the Sacred Well to test the girl's Sight. What Niniane sees is a garbled image of Morgaine returning to Avalon once Morgaine is old and grey. After they go back, Viviane sends for Raven. She asks Raven to put aside her vow of silence and take the position as Lady of the Lake but Raven declines.
The High Queen, Chapter 9 Analysis
Balin is a hot-headed man, who feels that the ways of Avalon are wicked. Even though his own mother's health deteriorates rapidly, he refuses to believe she will die. When Viviane assists in Priscilla's death with Priscilla and Gawan's permission, Balin sees this as a wicked act that must be punished. As Balin storms off, it is clear that there is unfinished business he will need to settle with the Lady of Avalon in the future.
The High Queen, Chapter 10 Summary
At Arthur's request, Gwenhwyfar goes to the convent at Cornwall to visit with Igraine, who is dying. Arthur is unable to go, and nobody knows where Morgaine is, so Gwenhwyfar goes. To her surprise, she was glad that she did. Igraine frets that she does not know where Morgaine is, and that Morgaine has not come to see her. She also tells Gwenhwyfar that Gwenhwyfar is pregnant, which she did not even know yet.
During Gwenhwyfar's visit, Igraine says many things to her. She admits that she spoke to Taliesin to see if there was an honorable way out of Arthur's marriage to her. Then she leaves out the reason why she did so. Igraine also admits that the Sight still comes to her every so often, and Igraine declines to have a priest come to her when Gwenhwyfar suggests it. Finally, she despairs that Morgaine has not come to her, and Igraine loves her so dearly. She ultimately succumbs to a heart condition.
The High Queen, Chapter 10 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar continues to wrestle with the guilt she feels over not yet bearing a son for Arthur. As she visits with Igraine, who is sick and dying, it is Igraine who asks whether Arthur reproaches her for her inability to have a child. When Gwenhwyfar answers no, Igraine assures her then that Arthur truly loves her for herself; although, Gwenhwyfar still feels some doubt about Arthur's love for her. She discovers that Igraine's retirement in the convent is just a ruse because Igraine is not truly a Christian. When Igraine predicts correctly that Gwenhwyfar is pregnant, Gwenhwyfar, although happy about the news, fears it is through sorcery that she was given this information. Gwenhwyfar is so guilt-ridden, that she finds guilt in every aspect of her life. She does not believe she is good enough to not be doing penance for something. Whether it is for Arthur's love or bearing him a son, she feels she is always at fault.
The High Queen, Chapter 11 Summary
Igraine is buried. Gwenhwyfar sees Igraine's retirement at a convent a lie, that she was never a Christian. She is becoming overly pious at this point. If Igraine was right about the pregnancy, then her child will be born around Eastertide. Gwenhwyfar seeks to leave the convent as soon as possible, since she is now eager to return home to tell Arthur her good news. However, the Saxons are invading, and the roads are not safe to travel. Her attendants want her to go to Tintagel and stay till the danger passes, but she insists on pressing on.
As they get closer to home, they encounter Gawaine, who is on his way to the convent where he believed Gwenhwyfar still was. He does not know that Igraine has already died. He is on his way there to give Gwenhwyfar more protection, since the Saxons are coming. This is the great battle that the Merlin foretold, where they either die or drive the Saxons out once and for all. Before he trots off, Gawaine mentions to Gwenhwyfar that Morgaine is no longer at Lothian, and it seems that no one then knows where she is.
When they arrive at Caerleon, the people cheer for their queen. Gwenhwyfar also discovers that it is on Arthur's orders that all the women and children are being packed up and sent off to the new castle, Camelot. After all the trouble she goes through to get home, and now she has to pack up again? This troubles Gwenhwyfar a great deal. When she gets to her quarters, her attendants have already packed up her things for the upcoming months. Gwenhwyfar is now determined not to be shipped off like chattel. Now that she knows she will have Arthur's son, she means to stay where she is.
The High Queen, Chapter 11 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar's piety jumps up several notches after Igraine's burial. She gets on her righteous high horse that she never quite comes down from. She looks down on Igraine as a pagan and sees Igraine's life at the convent as a lie. Not only that, Gwenhwyfar is haunted by strange dreams of Morgaine, which she feels are mocking her. The urgency to get home is upon her as is the priority high for her safety as Saxon's invasion grows more perilous. Gwenhwyfar feels that everything will be set right, once Arthur knows that she carries his child. She thinks God is looking down on her favorably for her faith. As she approaches Caerleon and sees the Pendragon banner, she is chilled to bone at the sight of it. She believes that it goes against her Christian God to have the banners.
The High Queen, Chapter 12 Summary
Gwenhwyfar goes into the Great Hall to greet her husband and inform him of Igraine's passing. Arthur is upset that she didn't stay in Cornwall at Tintagel. To Gwenhwyfar's annoyance, Arthur and his Companions talk of nothing but the upcoming battle and war strategy. They speak of this upcoming battle as the one they have waited for all their lives. This is what Arthur says Excalibur is for. Now all the people of Avalon are rallying beneath the banner of the Pendragon.
It is at the mention of the Pendragon that Gwenhwyfar seizes her moment and says that it does not seem proper for the pagans of Avalon to fight on the side of a Christian king. Lancelet speaks up and says that Britain is also the land of the people in Avalon and the Pendragon is their sworn king. Gwenhwyfar is stirring up a lot of anger. Lancelet is from Avalon, and Arthur is sworn by oath to protect Avalon.
When Arthur attempts to send Gwenhwyfar off to bed, she uses this opportunity to tell him of her good news. Even though she tells him, he is adamant that she leave with the remaining women to a place where she will be safe. Arthur relents and allows two of her waiting women to remain with her at Caerleon. He tells Gwenhwyfar that since the rest of the castle is now a camp, she must keep to her chambers at all times with the women. The Merlin visits Gwenhwyfar in her chambers ,and the whole time Gwenhwyfar does nothing but bait the old man into arguing for argument's sake. She shows him the new banner they are working on.
Arthur then pays Gwenhwyfar a visit in her chambers, and she excitedly shows him the banner and asks him to carry it into battle. Although Arthur sees that she is getting sick, he declines to carry the banner, reminding her of his oath to Avalon. When Kevin comes to visit shortly thereafter, and Gwenhwyfar miscarries, she blames the presence of a Druid "pagan" for it. As she recovers and her house priest comes to visit with her, she explains how she believes it her fault and wonders if she has any unconfessed sin, but she knows of none. The only explanation she has for the miscarriage is that she failed to convince Arthur to carry the new banner into battle and get rid of the old one. She fears that this may be an affront to God, so Gwenhwyfar renews her plea to Arthur. He reluctantly agrees to carry the new banner but does so because he believes his wife believes his refusal to carry the banner is the cause of her miscarriages. Although Arthur's subject kings and Companions are outraged by the decision, as will be the people of Avalon when they learn of Arthur's decision, they, too, agree, since they have sworn allegiance to Arthur.
The High Queen, Chapter 12 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar overreacts over every detail. Perhaps being pregnant has made her overly sensitive to everything. She thinks Arthur reproaches her for not going to Tintagel, when he is only concerned about her safety. She gets angry and jealous knowing that Morgaine does as she pleases, when women normally are not allowed to do so, and, most of all, she is beside herself that Arthur should still carry the banner of the Pendragon. On the eve of the biggest battle in the war against the Saxons, Gwenhwyfar sees it only fit that Arthur should carry the banner, which she and her ladies are making. It gets to such a point that she even convinces Arthur that God is punishing them by not giving them a son because of the Pendragon banner. Arthur ultimately acquiesces, which sets a new series of events in motion that will eventually divide his court.
The High Queen, Chapter 13 Summary
The chapter details Morgaine's trip back to Avalon to see Viviane. After all this time, Morgaine still feels shame over Lancelet. She does not know if she can get back to Avalon, since she had left it without permission so long ago. She approaches the mists and waits for the barge, but it never comes. She knows of another way to Avalon and attempts it but finds herself in a strange place. Morgaine hears no sounds; all is still. She feels as though she is moving through an enchanted country. As moves around and still cannot reach Avalon, she begins to feel a sense of panic that she has truly been cast out.
She stops, however, when she sees a man with a torch standing before her. Morgaine follows him as if in a dream. They give her something to drink, which begins to make her head swim and confused. Everything appears as though inside a dream, and she can no longer tell if she is awake, in a trance or sleeping. Morgaine spends what feels like days to her in this place that she now knows is the fairy land. Then she hears the voice of Raven telling her that Arthur has betrayed Avalon. At once, she realizes that she needs to leave as soon as she can. She sneaks out and begins to wonder exactly how much time has gone by. When she does find her way out, she knows she can no longer go to Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 13 Analysis
The time has not yet come for Morgaine to return to Avalon. She approaches the lake and sees the Tor in the distance and waits for the barge, which never comes for her. Avalon has abandoned her the same way she abandoned it years before. The time she spends in the fairy land heals her to an extent and allows her freedoms she would not have in the real world. This land appeals to those desires that Morgaine has that are unfulfilled. However, she immediately knows her place when she hears Raven's agonizing cry. Something within Morgaine snaps back to attention and gives her the will she needs to get back to her life. When time ceased to move forward for Morgaine while in Fairy land, her life's work defines itself, and she knows what she needs to do.
The High Queen, Chapter 14 Summary
Morgaine leaves the fairy country, and, for a moment, considers returning but remembers Raven's voice telling her about Arthur's betrayal. She has no idea how long she was away, and she's desperate to find out. As she travels closer to Caerleon, she encounter with Kevin Harper. From speaking with Kevin, Morgaine discovers that she has been away two years. Still, she does not tell Kevin where she was; she only tells him that she has lived in solitude.
Kevin tells her of the great battle with the Saxons, and how Arthur won. All the land is in peace under Arthur. When Kevin hears that Morgaine is going to Caerleon, he tells her that it is no more and that Arthur's court is now at Camelot. He explains how the court was moved on Pentecost, and therefore the Christian holiday is celebrated as its anniversary. Morgaine does not like this. She tells Kevin about Raven's prophecy, but he already knows about it. He tells her that although the Tribes came close to deserting Arthur, they never did. Morgaine wishes to speak to Arthur about his betrayal and Kevin agrees, though he says that Viviane will do so at the next Pentecost feast. Viviane will stand before Arthur as a common petitioner, so he will have to listen to her.
Before Kevin and Morgaine go on to Camelot, they make love in the forest. It is unexpected for them both. Kevin asks Morgaine again where she has been, and she confesses that she does not really know, but she thinks it was the fairy land. Kevin does not reproach her but instructs her not to tell anyone when they get to Camelot. As they prepare to leave, Morgaine has a moment of the Sight and she sees Kevin in flames.
The High Queen, Chapter 14 Analysis
When Morgaine encounters Kevin Harper on the road, she experiences love for the first time. In Kevin, she finds someone who loves her just for who she is, not because she is a priestess or the king's sister or because of anything she can do for him. He asks nothing of her. Although she cannot get back in to Avalon, he still views her as a priestess of Avalon, who will one day be Lady of the Lake. Morgaine feels a little lost since Avalon will not yet take her back, but what Kevin says helps to spur her on and do whatever work she can in the name of the Goddess. Since she has been out of Avalon so long, she needs to gradually find her way back. Arthur breaking his oath is the perfect place for her to start, so this becomes the focal point of her mission.
The High Queen, Chapter 15 Summary
Gwenhwyfar has troubling dreams of Morgaine and the Beltane fires. Months earlier at Christmas, Arthur promises to put the fires out, despite the Merlin's protests. Taliesin feels it is good for the people to do something which gives them pleasure, but Gwenhwyfar sees it as a pagan act. Cai interrupts Gwenhwyfar's thoughts to bring her outside to where Arthur is observing a young boy in the exercise fields. Cai and Gwenhwyfar notice the resemblance to Gawaine and discover that he is Gawaine's younger brother, Gareth, who wants to be made a knight at Pentecost.
After Gareth's display in the fields, Arthur and Gwenhwyfar take a walk to one of Arthur's favorite view points over the land. From there, they spy Kevin riding in on the road with a companion whom they do not recognize. When they greet the visitors, they discover it is Morgaine come back to them. Morgaine only says that she had a hard time on the road and makes no more of it. The next day, Kevin and the Merlin have a private audience with Arthur to remind him of his oath to Avalon.
That spring there is fever at the court, though it claimed no lives. Lancelet, however, is lucky to be alive and takes a long time to recover. Morgaine uses her knowledge of medicines and herb lore to heal him and everyone else who has fallen sick. While Lancelet convalesces, Morgaine comes to visit him and even plays her harp for him. She leaves so he can rest, and Gwenhwyfar comes to see him. Lancelet voices his desire for her after so many years. He wants to take her away from court and be with her, but he loves Arthur too much to hurt him. Since Lancelet is stuck in such a conflict, he asks Gwenhwyfar to give him leave to go somewhere where he cannot be tortured by her presence.
The High Queen, Chapter 15 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar continues to weave her web of manipulation around Arthur. Although Arthur speaks of his oath with scorn, he does nothing to stop Gwenhwyfar's pushing him to put the old ways down. Arthur's love for Gwenhwyfar bends him to her will. Later, Morgaine will regret not taking advantage of the hold she once had over Arthur because she knows he would not break his oath were she still close to him. At this point, Arthur's pliability is evident. He knows, too, that he may be punished for oathbreaking. When he talks like that, it makes Gwenhwyfar feel a sense of regret about pushing him so hard, but she never goes back on her word or changes her mind on the issue. She only pushes ever harder. She needs to be convinced of love, and she sees these acts that Arthur does for her as love.
The High Queen, Chapter 16 Summary
Kevin arrives at Camelot once again. Morgaine goes out to meet him and hear his news. He tells her that Viviane is still coming to Pentecost to petition Arthur. He also tells her that Avalon will not have him rule as a Christian king. Once again, Arthur must be reminded of his oath to Avalon or be forced to relinquish his sword. Later, the hand that gave Arthur the sword will smite him for breaking his promise. All Kevin mentions to Morgaine later about his conversation with Arthur is that Arthur would not listen. Arthur chooses to stand with the priests and the church because they had stood by his throne.
The High Queen, Chapter 16 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar is still convinced that she is being punished for something, which is why she has not borne the king any children. Her is still overly zealous in her adherence to the Christian church. She still believes that ridding the kingdom of pagans and the old ways will please her God - whom she believes is vengeful - and give her a child. The more she urges Arthur to put down the old ways, the farther he moves away from supporting Avalon. This, in turn, makes his eventual fall a big one.
The High Queen, Chapter 17 Summary
Everyone at Camelot is preparing for the Pentecost feast. In Gwenhwyfar's mind, she knows Pentecost also marks the Beltane fires, which celebrate the fertility of land by the people who farm it. She feels resentment over the fact that the day should symbolize such fertility, yet she does not bear any children to the king. This is something that preoccupies her so much that she even goes so far as asking Morgaine for a charm that will aid in her ability to conceive. Morgaine warns her about what she wishes but grants the queen this wish and promises to make something to give Gwenhwyfar later. Morgaine also tells Gwenhwyfar that Arthur has the ability to get her pregnant, since he already has a son elsewhere. However, Morgaine has sworn Gwenhwyfar to the strictest secrecy over it and begs her not to mention it to Arthur, since he does not know.
At the Pentecost feast, everyone is in a festive mood and drinks too much wine. As everyone staggers to bed, or out to the Beltane fire, Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet struggle to carry Arthur to his bed. While the three are in Arthur's chamber, Arthur tells Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar how much he loves them both and wants to give Gwenhwyfar whatever she wants. Over the years, he has seen the way the two of them look at one another, and he gives them permission to make love in his bed, with him there. By this time, Gwenhwyfar is wearing the charm around her neck that Morgaine made for her, but she thinks twice about keeping it on. Before she climbs into bed with Lancelet, she rips it from her neck and throws it away.
The High Queen, Chapter 17 Analysis
Rmearkable events always seem to happen on Pentecost. One such event occurs at the end of this chapter when Arthur, who is drunk on wine, pulls Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar into bed with him. Although Arthur had previously given permission to Gwenhwyfar to sleep with Lancelet to conceive a child, she did not take him up on it. Now, however, it seems as though Arthur would have both of them in his bed. The main reason for this is so that Gwenhwyfar can bear a child. However, the underlying reason is because Arthur, too, loves Lancelet. Although there is no reason to suggest that Arthur is enamored of men sexually, Lancelet being invited into Arthur's bed is merely an exhibition of the strong bond that connects the three of them. It is a love triangle. Arthur and Lancelet would die for each other. Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar are soul mates of love, and Arthur and Gwenhwyfar love as a proper husband and wife. All three are bound by honor and duty and truly wish to make the others happy. This unique event does little to dull the heat between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar, and does not change anything between Arthur and Lancelet and Arthur and Gwenhwyfar.
It is now wintertime in Lothian, and Morgaine is heavy with child. Morgause constantly chides Morgaine for not taking better care of herself and forces her to eat fresh meat at dinner. After the meal, Morgaine's water breaks and Morgause sends her off with the midwives to begin the lying-in. After Morgaine leaves, Lot reminds Morgause that Morgaine's child will be competition for their son, Gawaine, to be next in line to the throne of the High King. With much persuasion, Lot convinces Morgause to keep Morgaine's child from her once it is born. Morgause knows that if someone else fosters the child, Morgaine will never a bond with it and will be able to let it go.
Morgaine's labor lasts for many hours, and it is very painful and difficult for her. During the many hours of Morgaine's labor, Morgause tries to get information from her regarding the baby's father. Morgaine had all along been tight-lipped about it, and Morgause can not understand the secrecy behind it. Still, Morgaine would say nothing about the father. After Morgaine has her son, Morgause notes how like Lancelet he looks, and she wonders if indeed the child is Lancelet's. Still, Morgause did not understand why Morgaine would have Lancelet's child in secrecy, since it would have been no great scandal.
After Morgaine wakes, she asks to see her son and Morgause refuses her and whisks him away, claiming that Morgaine needs all her strength to recover. Morgause takes Gwydion to a wet nurse and decides to foster the boy herself. Later when she's alone, she uses what she has of the Sight and makes a spell to see for herself who Gwydion's father is. She is startled to see that it is Arthur and understands instantly why Morgaine is so secretive about it; it would be scandalous if anyone found out. Morgaine discovers Morgause is using the Sight and demands that Morgause swears not to say a word about his heritage to anyone. Since Morgause does not want to be cursed by a priestess of Avalon, she agrees.
The High Queen, Chapter 1 Analysis
Morgause's ambition for her son Gawaine outweighs her maternal instincts. After a conversation with Lot makes her think about Gawaine's position to the throne, Morgause decides not to let Morgaine nurse Gwydion. She knows that if Morgaine raises her son, than she will fight for him to take the throne in the event that Arthur dies. If this happens, then it will displace Gawaine from his position. Morgause insists that Gwydion be raised under her supervision, so that she and Lot can keep a close eye on him and influence him as he grows. This is exactly what happens when, in the future, it is Morgause that Gwydion turns to, not his natural mother. Since Morgaine never nurses Gwydion a bond is never formed. This foreshadows future events where Morgaine's sinister side emerges.
The High Queen, Chapter 2 Summary
Gwenhwyfar sits on the garden wall and is terrified to be outside. All her life she has been terrified of being outside and can remember the only time she felt safe was when she was at the convent growing up. As she sits, she watches as Lancelet gallops on horseback into the courtyard below her. He puts on a display for her father, King Loedengranz, to show how the horses can be trained and ridden into combat. The king will not, however, allow Lancelet to train the horses for battle because he has not sworn allegiance to Arthur as he had to Uther.
Gwenhwyfar changes into her best gown to impress Lancelet as she goes in to serve the wine. Lancelet remembers her immediately from the day he and Morgaine rescued her from the waters. King Loedegranz beseeches Lancelet to have Arthur himself come and look at the horses. When Lancelet leaves, her father tells Gwenhwyfar that he is trying to arrange a marriage between her and Arthur. The thought terrifies her only because she is afraid to be High Queen. Her father then reminds her that she is afraid of everything anyway.
The High Queen, Chapter 2 Analysis
During a conversation with Lancelet, Gwenhwyfar suggests that she is not wise. She says that the women on Avalon are evil witches, which Lancelet says is rubbish. He feels that only ignorant women would say that they are sorceresses. Although Gwenhwyfar admits to being ignorant, it seems that Lancelet pays the comment no mind. Unfortunately, this comment is very telling since in the future, this argument continues to arise and Gwenhwyfar's feelings on the matter do not change. Gwenhwyfar remains so steadfast in her beliefs about the priestesses of Avalon that it is because of her that Arthur eventually forsakes Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 3 Summary
Arthur and the Merlin go to visit Igraine at the convent where she has lived since Uther's death. Before their arrival, Igraine uses the Sight and hears Morgaine calling out to her during labor. She does not know where Morgaine is, but she can tell she is not at Avalon. When Arthur arrives, Igraine asks him where Morgaine is, and he tells her that she has gone to Lothian, but he knows nothing about the birth of their child. Since Archbishop Patricius is also present with Arthur and the Merlin, she does not ask any further questions.
Arthur goes on to explain that he is to marry Gwenhwyfar, although he cannot remember her name at that moment. He is not as concerned about the marriage as he is about the dowry he is to receive, which are horses and men from King Loedegranz. Arthur needs this dowry in order to launch a successful offensive against the Saxons. Arthur asks his mother if she is willing to go with Lancelet to bring Gwenhwyfar to Caerleon for the wedding. Igraine agrees to go once the abbess gives her permission.
The High Queen, Chapter 3 Analysis
Archbishop Patricius makes a comment that Arthur would not be able to wed one of Morgause's daughters if she had any, since it would be like wedding one's sister. Patricius says it is not to be thought of. Arthur remarks that he would be interested in Gawaine's sister, if he had one, though it would not be allowed. Little does Arthur realize that his own sister did give birth to his child. He is devastated when he finds out later, since he knows that his son will not be able to ascend to the throne because of his parentage. Arthur then says that he is set to marry Gwenhwyfar, though he does not remember her name at that time. He asks Igraine to go and escort his bride to Caerleon for the wedding. He offers to send Lancelet as a guide, since he feels that Gawaine might try to take advantage of the girl. It is ironic that Arthur makes this decision, since it is Lancelet who is enamored of Gwenhwyfar and she of him. Gawaine would be the better choice.
The High Queen, Chapter 4 Summary
Igraine goes to meet Gwenhwyfar and bring her to Caerleon for the wedding. As they start out, Igraine sees how terrified Gwenhwyfar is to travel and mistakes it for wedding jitters. Gwenhwyfar is partially nervous about the wedding, but she is also afraid of traveling outside her home. With Lancelet along for the journey, Gwenhwyfar begins to loosen up a little and relax. Igraine notices the spark between the two and has immediate suspicions about what will happen in the future. Gwenhwyfar does confess to Igraine that she is nervous over whether or not Arthur will love her for more than just her dowry, and if she will please him. From the beginning, though, the seeds are planted that create doubt in Gwenhwyfar's mind over whether Arthur really loves her, or if he is only marrying because he has to. Secretly, Gwenhwyfar wishes she were marrying Lancelet.
They reach Caerleon and Arthur warmly welcomes his bride. He feeds into Gwenhwyfar's doubts when he mentions the rich dowry that comes along with her. As he brings her into the castle and they talk, he expresses his desire to have her rule at his side. This thought terrifies Gwenhwyfar. Igraine asks that they have some time to rest and freshen up. Arthur introduces Cai and tells Gwenhwyfar to give whatever orders she sees fit on where to place her belongings. When she does, she gathers enough strength and calm to do so with authority, which surprises even her.
The High Queen, Chapter 4 Analysis
Lancelet showers Gwenhwyfar with lavish flattery that Igraine is witness to. She immediately senses that there is love between Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet and is rightly worried about her son and the throne. Igraine's sense of foreboding is an accurate one, since this banter between Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet set the stage for emotional turbulence later. Igraine also feels that the love between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar is going to be the downfall of Arthur's reign. It may be so; if Arthur marries someone else, then his allegiance to Avalon may never come into question later on.
The High Queen, Chapter 5 Summary
Igraine prepares Gwenhwyfar for the wedding and wonders momentarily if Arthur chose this bride wisely. Gwenhwyfar is young and beautiful, but Igraine finds her to be too shy and retiring for such a demanding role as High Queen. As Lancelet walks Gwenhwyfar to the church for the ceremony, Igraine once again sees the connection between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar and gets a bad feeling over it. She has a premonition that the marriage will only come to misery.
Balan comes to relieve Lancelet to go to Arthur for preparation. Gwenhwyfar sees in Lancelet's eyes that Lancelet does not want to leave her side. In the few days she has spent with him, she already feels connected to him in a way that she does not understand. Igraine excuses herself to speak with the Merlin before the mass. When she approaches Merlin, Igraine asks if there is any way for Arthur to gracefully break the marriage promise to Gwenhwyfar. Igraine explains about Lancelet, which comes as no surprise to Merlin. Merlin knows, however, that there is no way for Arthur to honorably bow out of the wedding. Things will have to go as they will, and they need to accept it. When the services begin as scheduled, Igraine catches a glimpse of Morgaine next to Morgause on the other side of the church.
The High Queen, Chapter 5 Analysis
Igraine's sense of foreboding continues. She still feels the despairing awareness that Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's marriage will come to no good and there will only be misery. This again foreshadows the future. Since Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar feel this strongly now, it will only grow stronger in the future. Not only is this a source of Igraine's distress, but the marriage is also doomed as it is because it is due to Gwenhwyfar that Arthur forsakes Avalon. Igraine seeks the Merlin to put a stop to the wedding, but it is too late, and he is unable to do anything. Arthur must marry Gwenhwyfar.
The High Queen, Chapter 6 Summary
Morgaine is bored as she sits with Morgause during the wedding mass. She does not know who Arthur's bride is but wishes Arthur nothing but happiness. As she looks around the church, she sees Kevin the Bard and her mother, who she is happy to see. After the service, Morgaine approaches Arthur on the receiving line and comes face-to-face with Gwenhwyfar after several years. They immediately recognize each other. Morgaine also notices the way Lancelet looks at Gwenhwyfar--like a hungry dog looks at a dripping bone. Gwenhwyfar, however, charms Morgaine into forgetting about Lancelet for the time being. She also graciously accepts Morgaine into service as a lady-in-waiting.
When speaking to Kevin, Morgaine asked how Viviane is doing. He tells her that she is fine, but aging. He also tells her that he mourns Morgaine's absence from Avalon and beseeches her to return. She tells him that she cannot. Kevin tells her how the Merlin spoke to Arthur about backing out of the wedding, though he did not know why. Morgaine, however, knew what the Merlin was getting at; she had seen the way Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar looked at each other. After all these years, Morgaine still feels the pangs of jealousy from the day that she feels Gwenhwyfar stole Lancelet from her. Morgaine still has a soft spot in her heart for Lancelet.
Later, Morgaine accompanies Lancelet to check the horses for Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's departure. Together they reminisce about their days in Avalon. Morgaine tries to keep his mind off of Gwenhwyfar. He seeks an unbroken horse to take out as a demonstration, and Gawaine warns him, but Lancelet pays him no mind. He and Morgaine find a quiet spot to be alone. She knows he is only trying to take his mind off Gwenhwyfar, but Morgaine accepts this. They are interrupted, and Lancelet swears to Morgaine that they will meet again later in the night. However, when Lancelet is injured by the unbroken horse, the plans are ruined. Morgaine spends the night caring for Lancelet's wounds.
The High Queen, Chapter 6 Analysis
Morgaine discovers that Arthur's bride is none other than Gwenhwyfar. Although she still feels the old hatred toward Gwenhwyfar, she is happy to see her marry someone other than Lancelet. Morgaine does, however, see the glances exchanged between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar and knows something is going on. Still, Morgaine feels relief that Arthur is married now to another, and the feelings Arthur has for Morgaine will hopefully go away once he beds Gwenhwyfar. What Morgaine does not realize is that it is this hold she has over Arthur, which is crucial to his keeping his solemn oath to Avalon. Morgaine can take advantage of these feelings, but she chooses for Arthur to be rid of them permanently. Strangely, she does not have the foresight to know the hold she has on Arthur as she should.
The High Queen, Chapter 7 Summary
It is now two years after Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's wedding. Morgaine sits with Gwenhwyfar's other ladies-in-waiting at Caerleon late in the summer, as the men are off fighting the Saxons. She and the ladies are spinning and Morgaine begins to drift off into a trance. When the women try to snap her out of it, Morgaine is saying that there is blood on the hearth, before the King's high seat, slain like a slaughtered sheep. When she comes to, she has no recollection of what she saw.
Using the Sight again, Morgaine sees the men coming home from their latest battles. When the men come home, the feast is already prepared. Morgaine sits with Balan and they talk of Lancelet. Balan mentions that Lancelet looks like he has a heavy heart. Though Morgaine knows why, she does not tell Balan. Balan says lightly that Lancelet should get married and why not to Morgaine? When Morgaine answers enthusiastically, it surprises Balan. The conversation shifts when Arthur talks of building a new castle for them. It would be a place bigger and better than Caerleon.
Later that night as Arthur and Gwenhwyfar go to their chamber, he suggests to her that Lancelet should get married to Morgaine. Gwenhwyfar immediately protests, to Arthur's surprise. To cover up her jealousy, Gwenhwyfar speaks of Lancelet marrying a pagan if he marries Morgaine, and she does not want that at her court. Arthur then lets the issue drop. While Arthur and Gwenhwyfar are discussing Morgaine and Lancelet, Morgaine uses the Sight to find Lancelet and goes to him outside. They find themselves at the point that they were at during Arthur's wedding. However, at the last minute, Lancelet changes his mind and sees that making love to Morgaine would be a sin. This angers Morgaine to the point that she decides to leave Arthur's court. Shortly after that, Morgaine leaves with the intention of returning to Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 7 Analysis
After two years of marriage, Gwenhwyfar still shows no sign of bearing Arthur a child. Gossip suggests that Morgaine supplies Gwenhwyfar with a charm that will make her conceive. The rocky start to Gwenhwyfar's childbearing issues leaves deeper roots than is originally understood. This signals the start of serious trouble to come, as Gwenhwyfar fights off accepting any kind of charm from Morgaine, who she views as a sorceress and a pagan. Morgaine knows that barrenness for Gwenhwyfar is a heavy burden to bear, or any queen for that matter. Arthur must have an heir to his throne. Thus begins Gwenhwyfar's desperation.
The High Queen, Chapter 8 Summary
During the next summer, Arthur and his soldiers fight against the Saxons, and Arthur is wounded. Since he carries Excalibur, the wound does not bleed heavily, but it festers for months afterward. As the winter approaches, Arthur still lies in bed convalescing. Gwenhwyfar still feels the sting from her own miscarriage months before. This is not the first time she has miscarried. Now she feels guilty for it, as though it is her fault. Since she feels it might be punishment for her feelings towards Lancelet, she goes to confession to be absolved of the sin. The priest forgives her and lets her go unpunished.
After a day when Arthur is well enough to be out of bed, Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar both help put him in bed. The feelings between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar are as strong as they have ever been, and the tension is great. Lancelet helps Gwenhwyfar with Arthur, then leaves. Arthur pulls Gwenhwyfar aside and gives her permission to go to bed with Lancelet, if that will mean she bears a son for the kingdom. Since Gwenhwyfar has been unable to have a child successfully with Arthur, he thinks that it might be his fault and they need have an heir. It doesn't matter to Arthur who the father is; he will love the child regardless. That night as she goes to sleep, Gwenhwyfar secretly wishes for Morgaine to return to the court so that Morgaine can give her a charm to help her conceive with Arthur.
The High Queen, Chapter 8 Analysis
The pressure continues to mount for Gwenhwyfar to conceive, as Arthur now joins in by giving her permission to bed Lancelet. Although Gwenhwyfar sees this as Arthur wanting a son more than he wants her, it also shows how much he does love his wife. He explains that he sees the way she and Lancelet look at each other and feels that this would be something they would both want. Since he loves the both of them dearly, he would openly accept a child of that union as his own. The three of them share a unique love, and, for Arthur, if Gwenhwyfar has a child by Lancelet, it would bind them even tighter. So Arthur does not only see this as a way to have an heir, but as a way to keep those he loves even closer to him.
The High Queen, Chapter 9 Summary
Viviane goes on a journey and thinks about Morgaine. Viviane does not know where Morgaine is, and this disturbs Viviane. The Sight is erratic in her now. She continues her trip going to visit Gawan, since Priscilla is sick. They are the foster-parents to her son, Balan. Priscilla is very ill, and Viviane knows she will die soon. With Priscilla's permission with the family present, Viviane gives Priscilla something to end her pain and suffering. Their own son, Balin, is too grieved to understand what Viviane is doing. After Priscilla dies shortly thereafter, Balin explodes in rage against Viviane and is convinced that she is a murderer and sorceress. Balan tells Viviane that Balin just needs time to grieve his mother's loss, and in time he will come around.
Viviane does not stay for Priscilla to be buried. She explains to Gawan and Balan that she needs to return to Avalon right away. As she rides, she thinks of Morgaine and how it is Morgaine's rightful place to be the new Lady of the Lake, since Viviane knows she is long overdue in giving up the position. When Viviane arrives in Avalon, she tells one of the attendant priestesses to send for Taliesin's daughter, Niniane, in three days' time. When Niniane arrives, Viviane questions her about the Sight. Niniane does not know if she has it. Viviane then takes Niniane to the Sacred Well to test the girl's Sight. What Niniane sees is a garbled image of Morgaine returning to Avalon once Morgaine is old and grey. After they go back, Viviane sends for Raven. She asks Raven to put aside her vow of silence and take the position as Lady of the Lake but Raven declines.
The High Queen, Chapter 9 Analysis
Balin is a hot-headed man, who feels that the ways of Avalon are wicked. Even though his own mother's health deteriorates rapidly, he refuses to believe she will die. When Viviane assists in Priscilla's death with Priscilla and Gawan's permission, Balin sees this as a wicked act that must be punished. As Balin storms off, it is clear that there is unfinished business he will need to settle with the Lady of Avalon in the future.
The High Queen, Chapter 10 Summary
At Arthur's request, Gwenhwyfar goes to the convent at Cornwall to visit with Igraine, who is dying. Arthur is unable to go, and nobody knows where Morgaine is, so Gwenhwyfar goes. To her surprise, she was glad that she did. Igraine frets that she does not know where Morgaine is, and that Morgaine has not come to see her. She also tells Gwenhwyfar that Gwenhwyfar is pregnant, which she did not even know yet.
During Gwenhwyfar's visit, Igraine says many things to her. She admits that she spoke to Taliesin to see if there was an honorable way out of Arthur's marriage to her. Then she leaves out the reason why she did so. Igraine also admits that the Sight still comes to her every so often, and Igraine declines to have a priest come to her when Gwenhwyfar suggests it. Finally, she despairs that Morgaine has not come to her, and Igraine loves her so dearly. She ultimately succumbs to a heart condition.
The High Queen, Chapter 10 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar continues to wrestle with the guilt she feels over not yet bearing a son for Arthur. As she visits with Igraine, who is sick and dying, it is Igraine who asks whether Arthur reproaches her for her inability to have a child. When Gwenhwyfar answers no, Igraine assures her then that Arthur truly loves her for herself; although, Gwenhwyfar still feels some doubt about Arthur's love for her. She discovers that Igraine's retirement in the convent is just a ruse because Igraine is not truly a Christian. When Igraine predicts correctly that Gwenhwyfar is pregnant, Gwenhwyfar, although happy about the news, fears it is through sorcery that she was given this information. Gwenhwyfar is so guilt-ridden, that she finds guilt in every aspect of her life. She does not believe she is good enough to not be doing penance for something. Whether it is for Arthur's love or bearing him a son, she feels she is always at fault.
The High Queen, Chapter 11 Summary
Igraine is buried. Gwenhwyfar sees Igraine's retirement at a convent a lie, that she was never a Christian. She is becoming overly pious at this point. If Igraine was right about the pregnancy, then her child will be born around Eastertide. Gwenhwyfar seeks to leave the convent as soon as possible, since she is now eager to return home to tell Arthur her good news. However, the Saxons are invading, and the roads are not safe to travel. Her attendants want her to go to Tintagel and stay till the danger passes, but she insists on pressing on.
As they get closer to home, they encounter Gawaine, who is on his way to the convent where he believed Gwenhwyfar still was. He does not know that Igraine has already died. He is on his way there to give Gwenhwyfar more protection, since the Saxons are coming. This is the great battle that the Merlin foretold, where they either die or drive the Saxons out once and for all. Before he trots off, Gawaine mentions to Gwenhwyfar that Morgaine is no longer at Lothian, and it seems that no one then knows where she is.
When they arrive at Caerleon, the people cheer for their queen. Gwenhwyfar also discovers that it is on Arthur's orders that all the women and children are being packed up and sent off to the new castle, Camelot. After all the trouble she goes through to get home, and now she has to pack up again? This troubles Gwenhwyfar a great deal. When she gets to her quarters, her attendants have already packed up her things for the upcoming months. Gwenhwyfar is now determined not to be shipped off like chattel. Now that she knows she will have Arthur's son, she means to stay where she is.
The High Queen, Chapter 11 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar's piety jumps up several notches after Igraine's burial. She gets on her righteous high horse that she never quite comes down from. She looks down on Igraine as a pagan and sees Igraine's life at the convent as a lie. Not only that, Gwenhwyfar is haunted by strange dreams of Morgaine, which she feels are mocking her. The urgency to get home is upon her as is the priority high for her safety as Saxon's invasion grows more perilous. Gwenhwyfar feels that everything will be set right, once Arthur knows that she carries his child. She thinks God is looking down on her favorably for her faith. As she approaches Caerleon and sees the Pendragon banner, she is chilled to bone at the sight of it. She believes that it goes against her Christian God to have the banners.
The High Queen, Chapter 12 Summary
Gwenhwyfar goes into the Great Hall to greet her husband and inform him of Igraine's passing. Arthur is upset that she didn't stay in Cornwall at Tintagel. To Gwenhwyfar's annoyance, Arthur and his Companions talk of nothing but the upcoming battle and war strategy. They speak of this upcoming battle as the one they have waited for all their lives. This is what Arthur says Excalibur is for. Now all the people of Avalon are rallying beneath the banner of the Pendragon.
It is at the mention of the Pendragon that Gwenhwyfar seizes her moment and says that it does not seem proper for the pagans of Avalon to fight on the side of a Christian king. Lancelet speaks up and says that Britain is also the land of the people in Avalon and the Pendragon is their sworn king. Gwenhwyfar is stirring up a lot of anger. Lancelet is from Avalon, and Arthur is sworn by oath to protect Avalon.
When Arthur attempts to send Gwenhwyfar off to bed, she uses this opportunity to tell him of her good news. Even though she tells him, he is adamant that she leave with the remaining women to a place where she will be safe. Arthur relents and allows two of her waiting women to remain with her at Caerleon. He tells Gwenhwyfar that since the rest of the castle is now a camp, she must keep to her chambers at all times with the women. The Merlin visits Gwenhwyfar in her chambers ,and the whole time Gwenhwyfar does nothing but bait the old man into arguing for argument's sake. She shows him the new banner they are working on.
Arthur then pays Gwenhwyfar a visit in her chambers, and she excitedly shows him the banner and asks him to carry it into battle. Although Arthur sees that she is getting sick, he declines to carry the banner, reminding her of his oath to Avalon. When Kevin comes to visit shortly thereafter, and Gwenhwyfar miscarries, she blames the presence of a Druid "pagan" for it. As she recovers and her house priest comes to visit with her, she explains how she believes it her fault and wonders if she has any unconfessed sin, but she knows of none. The only explanation she has for the miscarriage is that she failed to convince Arthur to carry the new banner into battle and get rid of the old one. She fears that this may be an affront to God, so Gwenhwyfar renews her plea to Arthur. He reluctantly agrees to carry the new banner but does so because he believes his wife believes his refusal to carry the banner is the cause of her miscarriages. Although Arthur's subject kings and Companions are outraged by the decision, as will be the people of Avalon when they learn of Arthur's decision, they, too, agree, since they have sworn allegiance to Arthur.
The High Queen, Chapter 12 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar overreacts over every detail. Perhaps being pregnant has made her overly sensitive to everything. She thinks Arthur reproaches her for not going to Tintagel, when he is only concerned about her safety. She gets angry and jealous knowing that Morgaine does as she pleases, when women normally are not allowed to do so, and, most of all, she is beside herself that Arthur should still carry the banner of the Pendragon. On the eve of the biggest battle in the war against the Saxons, Gwenhwyfar sees it only fit that Arthur should carry the banner, which she and her ladies are making. It gets to such a point that she even convinces Arthur that God is punishing them by not giving them a son because of the Pendragon banner. Arthur ultimately acquiesces, which sets a new series of events in motion that will eventually divide his court.
The High Queen, Chapter 13 Summary
The chapter details Morgaine's trip back to Avalon to see Viviane. After all this time, Morgaine still feels shame over Lancelet. She does not know if she can get back to Avalon, since she had left it without permission so long ago. She approaches the mists and waits for the barge, but it never comes. She knows of another way to Avalon and attempts it but finds herself in a strange place. Morgaine hears no sounds; all is still. She feels as though she is moving through an enchanted country. As moves around and still cannot reach Avalon, she begins to feel a sense of panic that she has truly been cast out.
She stops, however, when she sees a man with a torch standing before her. Morgaine follows him as if in a dream. They give her something to drink, which begins to make her head swim and confused. Everything appears as though inside a dream, and she can no longer tell if she is awake, in a trance or sleeping. Morgaine spends what feels like days to her in this place that she now knows is the fairy land. Then she hears the voice of Raven telling her that Arthur has betrayed Avalon. At once, she realizes that she needs to leave as soon as she can. She sneaks out and begins to wonder exactly how much time has gone by. When she does find her way out, she knows she can no longer go to Avalon.
The High Queen, Chapter 13 Analysis
The time has not yet come for Morgaine to return to Avalon. She approaches the lake and sees the Tor in the distance and waits for the barge, which never comes for her. Avalon has abandoned her the same way she abandoned it years before. The time she spends in the fairy land heals her to an extent and allows her freedoms she would not have in the real world. This land appeals to those desires that Morgaine has that are unfulfilled. However, she immediately knows her place when she hears Raven's agonizing cry. Something within Morgaine snaps back to attention and gives her the will she needs to get back to her life. When time ceased to move forward for Morgaine while in Fairy land, her life's work defines itself, and she knows what she needs to do.
The High Queen, Chapter 14 Summary
Morgaine leaves the fairy country, and, for a moment, considers returning but remembers Raven's voice telling her about Arthur's betrayal. She has no idea how long she was away, and she's desperate to find out. As she travels closer to Caerleon, she encounter with Kevin Harper. From speaking with Kevin, Morgaine discovers that she has been away two years. Still, she does not tell Kevin where she was; she only tells him that she has lived in solitude.
Kevin tells her of the great battle with the Saxons, and how Arthur won. All the land is in peace under Arthur. When Kevin hears that Morgaine is going to Caerleon, he tells her that it is no more and that Arthur's court is now at Camelot. He explains how the court was moved on Pentecost, and therefore the Christian holiday is celebrated as its anniversary. Morgaine does not like this. She tells Kevin about Raven's prophecy, but he already knows about it. He tells her that although the Tribes came close to deserting Arthur, they never did. Morgaine wishes to speak to Arthur about his betrayal and Kevin agrees, though he says that Viviane will do so at the next Pentecost feast. Viviane will stand before Arthur as a common petitioner, so he will have to listen to her.
Before Kevin and Morgaine go on to Camelot, they make love in the forest. It is unexpected for them both. Kevin asks Morgaine again where she has been, and she confesses that she does not really know, but she thinks it was the fairy land. Kevin does not reproach her but instructs her not to tell anyone when they get to Camelot. As they prepare to leave, Morgaine has a moment of the Sight and she sees Kevin in flames.
The High Queen, Chapter 14 Analysis
When Morgaine encounters Kevin Harper on the road, she experiences love for the first time. In Kevin, she finds someone who loves her just for who she is, not because she is a priestess or the king's sister or because of anything she can do for him. He asks nothing of her. Although she cannot get back in to Avalon, he still views her as a priestess of Avalon, who will one day be Lady of the Lake. Morgaine feels a little lost since Avalon will not yet take her back, but what Kevin says helps to spur her on and do whatever work she can in the name of the Goddess. Since she has been out of Avalon so long, she needs to gradually find her way back. Arthur breaking his oath is the perfect place for her to start, so this becomes the focal point of her mission.
The High Queen, Chapter 15 Summary
Gwenhwyfar has troubling dreams of Morgaine and the Beltane fires. Months earlier at Christmas, Arthur promises to put the fires out, despite the Merlin's protests. Taliesin feels it is good for the people to do something which gives them pleasure, but Gwenhwyfar sees it as a pagan act. Cai interrupts Gwenhwyfar's thoughts to bring her outside to where Arthur is observing a young boy in the exercise fields. Cai and Gwenhwyfar notice the resemblance to Gawaine and discover that he is Gawaine's younger brother, Gareth, who wants to be made a knight at Pentecost.
After Gareth's display in the fields, Arthur and Gwenhwyfar take a walk to one of Arthur's favorite view points over the land. From there, they spy Kevin riding in on the road with a companion whom they do not recognize. When they greet the visitors, they discover it is Morgaine come back to them. Morgaine only says that she had a hard time on the road and makes no more of it. The next day, Kevin and the Merlin have a private audience with Arthur to remind him of his oath to Avalon.
That spring there is fever at the court, though it claimed no lives. Lancelet, however, is lucky to be alive and takes a long time to recover. Morgaine uses her knowledge of medicines and herb lore to heal him and everyone else who has fallen sick. While Lancelet convalesces, Morgaine comes to visit him and even plays her harp for him. She leaves so he can rest, and Gwenhwyfar comes to see him. Lancelet voices his desire for her after so many years. He wants to take her away from court and be with her, but he loves Arthur too much to hurt him. Since Lancelet is stuck in such a conflict, he asks Gwenhwyfar to give him leave to go somewhere where he cannot be tortured by her presence.
The High Queen, Chapter 15 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar continues to weave her web of manipulation around Arthur. Although Arthur speaks of his oath with scorn, he does nothing to stop Gwenhwyfar's pushing him to put the old ways down. Arthur's love for Gwenhwyfar bends him to her will. Later, Morgaine will regret not taking advantage of the hold she once had over Arthur because she knows he would not break his oath were she still close to him. At this point, Arthur's pliability is evident. He knows, too, that he may be punished for oathbreaking. When he talks like that, it makes Gwenhwyfar feel a sense of regret about pushing him so hard, but she never goes back on her word or changes her mind on the issue. She only pushes ever harder. She needs to be convinced of love, and she sees these acts that Arthur does for her as love.
The High Queen, Chapter 16 Summary
Kevin arrives at Camelot once again. Morgaine goes out to meet him and hear his news. He tells her that Viviane is still coming to Pentecost to petition Arthur. He also tells her that Avalon will not have him rule as a Christian king. Once again, Arthur must be reminded of his oath to Avalon or be forced to relinquish his sword. Later, the hand that gave Arthur the sword will smite him for breaking his promise. All Kevin mentions to Morgaine later about his conversation with Arthur is that Arthur would not listen. Arthur chooses to stand with the priests and the church because they had stood by his throne.
The High Queen, Chapter 16 Analysis
Gwenhwyfar is still convinced that she is being punished for something, which is why she has not borne the king any children. Her is still overly zealous in her adherence to the Christian church. She still believes that ridding the kingdom of pagans and the old ways will please her God - whom she believes is vengeful - and give her a child. The more she urges Arthur to put down the old ways, the farther he moves away from supporting Avalon. This, in turn, makes his eventual fall a big one.
The High Queen, Chapter 17 Summary
Everyone at Camelot is preparing for the Pentecost feast. In Gwenhwyfar's mind, she knows Pentecost also marks the Beltane fires, which celebrate the fertility of land by the people who farm it. She feels resentment over the fact that the day should symbolize such fertility, yet she does not bear any children to the king. This is something that preoccupies her so much that she even goes so far as asking Morgaine for a charm that will aid in her ability to conceive. Morgaine warns her about what she wishes but grants the queen this wish and promises to make something to give Gwenhwyfar later. Morgaine also tells Gwenhwyfar that Arthur has the ability to get her pregnant, since he already has a son elsewhere. However, Morgaine has sworn Gwenhwyfar to the strictest secrecy over it and begs her not to mention it to Arthur, since he does not know.
At the Pentecost feast, everyone is in a festive mood and drinks too much wine. As everyone staggers to bed, or out to the Beltane fire, Gwenhwyfar and Lancelet struggle to carry Arthur to his bed. While the three are in Arthur's chamber, Arthur tells Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar how much he loves them both and wants to give Gwenhwyfar whatever she wants. Over the years, he has seen the way the two of them look at one another, and he gives them permission to make love in his bed, with him there. By this time, Gwenhwyfar is wearing the charm around her neck that Morgaine made for her, but she thinks twice about keeping it on. Before she climbs into bed with Lancelet, she rips it from her neck and throws it away.
The High Queen, Chapter 17 Analysis
Rmearkable events always seem to happen on Pentecost. One such event occurs at the end of this chapter when Arthur, who is drunk on wine, pulls Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar into bed with him. Although Arthur had previously given permission to Gwenhwyfar to sleep with Lancelet to conceive a child, she did not take him up on it. Now, however, it seems as though Arthur would have both of them in his bed. The main reason for this is so that Gwenhwyfar can bear a child. However, the underlying reason is because Arthur, too, loves Lancelet. Although there is no reason to suggest that Arthur is enamored of men sexually, Lancelet being invited into Arthur's bed is merely an exhibition of the strong bond that connects the three of them. It is a love triangle. Arthur and Lancelet would die for each other. Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar are soul mates of love, and Arthur and Gwenhwyfar love as a proper husband and wife. All three are bound by honor and duty and truly wish to make the others happy. This unique event does little to dull the heat between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar, and does not change anything between Arthur and Lancelet and Arthur and Gwenhwyfar.