The Once and Future King

When Lancelot’s father, King Ban, is under siege, Arthur vows to come to his aid. He leaves Lancelot behind to safeguard the kingdom and protect Guenever. Arthur heads off to war, and for a year, Lancelot and Guenever carry on their affair, although Lancelot is plagued by guilt. He confesses to her that he has always wanted to be “holy” and work miracles, but now, as a sinner, he can no longer hope for that. However, he doesn’t regret anything as long as they are together.

One day after Arthur’s return from France, Lancelot’s cousin, Sir Bors, comes to Camelot and repeats a rumor of Elaine’s newborn son, Galahad. When Guenever hears it, she confronts Lancelot. He is forced to admit the truth, and she is furious at his betrayal. Their anger turns to passion, but “the seeds of hatred and fear and confusion” have been sown (386).

Elaine journeys to Camelot with her child, intent on winning Lancelot’s love. Lancelot is miserable, caught between his love for Arthur, the pain his indiscretion would inflict on the king, and the bitterness of Guenever’s distrust.