logo

The Once and Future King

T. H. White

The Once and Future King

T. H. White

The Once and Future King Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Candle in the Wind”

Part 4, Chapter 1 Summary

Nursing both ancient and personal grievances, Agravaine and Mordred plot against Arthur. Agravaine argues that Arthur is beloved and that any movement against him will never gain traction. He suggests denouncing Lancelot before the entire court.

Part 4, Chapter 2 Summary

Mordred and Agravaine tell their brothers about their plan to confront Lancelot. When Gawaine forbids it, Agravaine draws his sword. Gawaine, his own dagger drawn, advances on his brother. Before either brother can strike a fatal blow, Gareth intervenes. Just then, a page announces Arthur’s arrival.

Part 4, Chapter 3 Summary

Lancelot and Guenever, now in their twilight years, gaze out upon “Merry England,” a land remade by Arthur. It is, an age of learning, of science, and of upward mobility and progress—a direct refutation of the label, “Dark Ages.”

blurred text

Unlock this
Study Guide!

Join SuperSummary to gain instant access to all 61 pages of this Study Guide and thousands of other learning resources.
Get Started
blurred text