This book, published in 1965, gives what is probably
the most sympathetic portrayal of Lancelot that I have ever found. He is
introduced as the ill-framed knight; a phenomenally ugly kid whose only
dream is to become a great warrior in the court of King Arthur. To that
end, he lives in his father's armory, learning the ways of chivalry and
knighthood from an acknowledged master named Dap. White makes Lancelot a
man who has earned his powers as a knight through hard work instead of
them being simply granted to him. Rather then waltzing into Arthurs court
and wooing Guenivere with his good looks, she falls in love with him in
spite of his face. Also, Lancelot is always critical of himself. He
continually sees a flaw inside. His belief that he is ill-framed combine
with a constant awareness of his perceived imperfection makes him a more
sympathetic character. In many tales, Lancelots perfection removes him
from the sphere of humanity, and, hence, removing our ability to like him.
White paints a different picture of a very human Lancelot which is much
more accessible and a pleasure to read.Return to Abstract List