His knightly3 garb4, and he knew them, the customs of knighthood fair.
But alas5! he full sore was troubled with many a bitter pain,
And the world was too close, and too narrow the width of the spreading plain,
And the greensward he thought was faded, and his harness had paled to white;5
So the heart the eye constraineth and dimmeth awhile the sight.
For since he had waxed less simple somewhat of his father’s lore8,
The desire of the man for the maiden9, in his wakening heart he bore;
And he thought but of fair Liassé, that maiden so true and sweet,
How never her love she proffered10, yet with honour the guest would greet.10
And wherever his horse might turn it he took in his grief no heed11,
And if slowly it paced or swiftly he thought not to guide its speed.
Nor many a field well-fencèd nor wayside cross he found;
Nor chariot-wheel nor horse-hoof had furrowed12 with tracks the ground;
Untrodden the woodland pathway, nor wide was I ween the way,15
And he knew not the hills and the valleys—Full oft shall ye hear men say,
‘Who rideth astray, in his wandering the lost axe7 may often find.’
They lay here unnumbered round him, if for axe ye have trees in mind.
Yet tho’ far was the road he journeyed yet he went in no wise astray,
And thus from the land of Graharz he rode through the livelong day,20
Till he came to the kingdom of Brobarz thro’ mountains wild and high—
When the shadows of evening lengthened13, and red flushed the western sky,
Then he came to a mountain torrent14, and the voice of the raging flood
Rang clear as its waves rushed foaming15 round the crags that amid them stood.
So he rode adown by the waters till he came to the city fair25
Which a king had bequeathed to his daughter; ’twas the city of Pelrap?r,
And I wot that tho’ fair the maiden who bare of that land the crown,
Great grief and small gladness had they who dwelt in that noble town!
Like an arrow that swiftly speedeth from the bow by a strong arm bent17,
The waters onward18 rushing on their downward pathway went;30
And a bridge hung high above them with woven work so fair,
And the stream it flowed swift to the ocean—Well-guarded was Pelrap?r,
As children in swings delight them, and swing themselves to and fro,
So swung the bridge, yet ropeless, youthful gladness it scarce might know!
And on either side were standing19, with helmets for battle bound,35
Of knights20 e’en more than thirty, and they bade him to turn him round,
And with lifted swords, tho’ feeble, the strife21 would they gladly wait,
They thought ’twas the King Klamidé whom they oft had seen of late,
So royally rode the hero to the bridge o’er the field so wide—
As thus to the youth they shouted, and with one voice his arms defied,40
Tho’ he spurred his steed full sharply it shrank from the bridge in fright,
But ne’er knew he a thought of terror—To the ground sprang the gallant23 knight2.
And he led his horse by the bridle24 where the bridge hung high in air,
Too faint were a coward’s courage so bitter a strife to dare!
And well must he watch his footsteps for he feared lest his steed should fall—45
From the other side of the water the knights had ceased their call,
And with shield and sword-blade gleaming within the town they passed,
For they feared lest an army followed, and they closed their portals fast.
So Parzival crossed the river, and he rode o’er a grassy25 plain
Where many in search of knighthood must death for their guerdon gain;50
And he came to the palace portal, and stately the Burg and high,
And there hung there a ring of iron, and he gripped it right manfully.
But none to his call made answer, save only a maiden bright
Who looked forth26 from out her window, and was ‘ware of the gallant knight.
Spake the maiden so fair and courteous, ‘An thou comest, Sir Knight, as foe27,55
Little need have we of thine hatred28, for heavy enough our woe29,
A wrathful host doth threaten already by sea and land!’
Then he quoth, ‘Nay31, gentle lady, at thy portals a man doth stand
Who will, if he can, do thee service! For thy service my hand is fain,
And never reward save thy greeting as payment I think to gain.’60
Then the maiden she went in her wisdom to the queen and an entrance prayed
For the knight, and in sooth his coming it brought to their sorrow aid.
So Parzival came to the city; down the roadway on either hand
The folk who would fain defend them in close groups he saw them stand,
Soldiers on foot, and slingers, and they who the dart33 could throw,65
He saw as he came towards them, in many a goodly row.
And many a squire34 so valiant35, the bravest from out the land,
Long, sharp, and strong were the lances they bare in each strong right hand.
There too, so the story telleth, was many a merchant grave,
And the javelin36 and axe were their weapons, so their lady commandment gave.70
And their skins, they were loose for hunger—Then the Marshal of the queen
Made his way thro’ their ranks to the castle, and heavy his task I ween.
And well was that castle guarded, with towers o’er the chambers37 high;
And barbican, keep, and oriel in such numbers they met his eye
That buildings so strong and so many in his lifetime he never saw,75
And on horse or afoot from all sides the knights to his welcome draw.
’Twas a sorry host, for as ashes some were grey, some were pale as clay,
(My lord the Count of Wertheim sure had starved on such scanty39 pay!)
Thro’ want full sore they hungered, nor cheese, nor bread, nor meat
Had they, and their teeth were idle since naught40 might they find to eat.80
And their palate knew naught of the flavour of the wine-cup, or red or white,
And their doublet hung loosely on them, and wasted each limb of might,
And their skin like wrinkled leather on each rib41 hung gaunt and grim,
For hunger their flesh had wasted and driven from every limb.
Thro’ want must they sorely suffer, little grease in their fuel ran—85
(A hero to this had forced them, the proud King of Brandigan,
Thus they paid for Klamidé‘s wooing)—The mead42 might they seldom spill,
For small was their store, I think me, the vessel43 or cup to fill.
In Trühending oft shall ye hearken the hiss44 of the frying cake,
In such music, methinks, but seldom the folk might their pleasure take!90
(And if for such want I’ld mock them, then in truth must I share their shame,
For there where I oft dismount me, where men do me ’Master‘ name,
At home in mine house, with trouble e’en the mice shall their portion steal,
Nor oft for their food be joyful45! Nor need they the bread conceal46,
Unhidden, I scarce may find it—Yea, oft doth it happen so,95
And I, Wolfram of Eschenbach, ofttimes such pleasure and ease may know.)
But enough of my lamentation47, once more ye the tale shall hear
How the city was full of sorrow, and for gladness they paid full dear.
How these heroes, so rich in courage, must in need and in scarceness live,
For so did the manhood bid them, to their need shall ye pity give—100
For their life stood in pledge, might He free it in Whose Hand all power shall be!—
Yet more of their grief would I tell ye that ye mourn for them bitterly,
With shame their guest did they welcome, for they deemed him so rich and great
That he craved49 not thro’ need their shelter; he knew naught of their poor estate.
On the grass did they spread a carpet, where a linden was walled around,105
And trained to a welcome shadow—‘Neath its boughs50 they his arms unbound,
And the vassals52 they took his harness; but other than theirs his face
When he in the streamlet washed it, and cleansed53 it from red rust54 trace;
Nay, the sunlight’s rays were shamèd ‘neath the glow of his beauty bright,
And a worthy55 guest they thought him as they gazed on the gallant knight.110
Then a mantle56 rich they brought him e’en like to the robe he bare,
And new was the smell of the sable57 wherewith it was garnished58 fair.
Then they spake, ‘Wilt59 thou look upon her, the queen, our lady true?’
And the knight made answer straightway, that thing would he gladly do.
To the palace they came, and the stairway steep and high to the portal led,115
And the light of a fair face met him when his footsteps so far were sped.
Of his eyes should she be the sweetness—There shone from that lady bright
A radiant glow and dazzling, ere she welcomed the stranger knight.
Now Kiot of Katelangen and Manfilot, Dukes the twain,
Led hither their brother’s daughter who as queen o’er this land did reign:120
(For the love of God their harness, shield, and sword, had they put away
These princes true and stalwart, fair of face tho’ their hair was grey.)
Midway adown the staircase all courteous the maid they led,
And she kissed the gallant hero, and the lips of the twain were red;
And she gave him her hand, and she led him, Sir Parzival, to the hall,125
And they sat them adown together in the midst of the courtiers all.
And feeble and faint the maidens60, and the knights who stood there around,
And vassal51 alike and hostess, small joy in their life they found.
Yet Kondwiramur, her beauty did high o’er all others stand,
Were it Enid, or fair Jeschuté or Kunnewaaré of far Lalande,130
Whoe’er men had deemed the fairest when they women’s beauty weighed,
Their fame to the earth was smitten61 by the glance of this royal maid.
Yea, even the twain Isoldé, tho’ men praise them evermore,
They must yield the crown of beauty to the lady Kondwiramur.
(And her name in our tongue betokens62 her shapely form and fair)135
And well had they done, the mothers, who had borne such a goodly pair
As these twain who sat here together, naught did they who stood around
But gaze on the one and the other—Many friends had our hero found.
And the thoughts of the knight will I tell ye, ‘There Liassé, Liassé here,—
God will free me from care since I see here Liassé that maiden dear140
The child of a gallant father!’—Yet her fairness was naught I wot,
‘Gainst her beauty who sat beside him, in whom God no wish forgot.
(The maiden was queen of the country) Yea, e’en as by morning dew
Refreshed, the rose from its calyx forth buddeth in beauty new,
And is white and red together—And grief to her guest it wrought63,145
To whose courtesy naught was lacking since Gurnemanz’ side he sought,
And his words had from folly64 freed him; and had bidden him questions spare
Save only where they were needful—So he sat by that lady fair,
And never a word his lips spake, tho’ he sat close the maid beside—
Yet to those who know more of woman such silence doth oft betide.150
Then the queen to herself said softly, ‘This man disdaineth me,
He deemeth my fairness faded. Nay, perchance it yet may be
That in this thing he doeth wisely, his hostess in sooth am I,
And he is my guest, the first speech should be mine assuredly!
Gently he looks upon me tho’ never a word we speak,155
And courteous hath been his bearing, ’twere well I the silence break;
Too long have I yet delayed me since here side by side we sit.’
To her guest did she turn, the maiden, and she spake as it seemed her fit:
‘Sir Knight, it were well as hostess that the first words came from me,
Since I wot well my kiss as hostess a greeting hath won from thee,160
And thou offeredst me thy service, so my maiden hath borne me word,
Our guests scarce are wont65 to do so, tho’ the tidings I fain had heard.
Now tell me, my guest, I prithee, since the tale I am fain to know,
From whence art thou come to my kingdom, and whither thou yet wouldst go?’
‘Lady, at early morning I rode from my host away,165
A brave knight is he and faithful, yet he sorroweth sore to-day,
And Prince Gurnemanz do men call him, in Graharz he holds command,
From thence I to-day have ridden, thence came I unto this land!’
Then the noble maiden answered, ‘Sir Knight, had another told
This tale, methinks that scarcely for truth I the words might hold,170
That thou in one day hadst ridden a journey that scarce in twain
My swiftest squire could compass, tho’ his charger he spurred amain!
Thy host was my mother’s brother; his daughter’s youthful glow,
It hath paled before the sorrow which she, e’en as I, must know.
For many sad days and mournful, with sad eyes we’ve wept our fill175
I, and the maid Liassé—Wouldst thou show to thy host goodwill66?
Then thou shalt with us, man and woman, this night-tide our sorrow share,
Thou shalt serve him thereby67; and I’ll tell thee the want we perforce must bear.’
Then out spake her uncle Kiot, ‘Lady, I send to thee
Twelve loaves of bread, and of shoulders and hams do I give thee three,180
And eight cheeses too are with them, and two casks of wine I trow,
And my brother, he too shall aid thee, of such aid hast thou need enow!’
And Manfilot spake, ‘Yea, Lady, I send thee the self-same fare.’
And the maiden she sat in gladness, and of thanks she no word would spare.
Then leave they craved from their lady, and forth would the old men ride185
To their hunting-house that was nigh there—But the cell where they would abide68,
Was in Alpine69 wilds so lonely, there unarmed did they dwell afar,
And never a foeman vexed70 them with tumult71 or strife of war.
And the messenger sped full swiftly, and the fainting folk were fed,
No Burger within the city but was lacking for other bread,190
And many were dead of hunger ere food for their need was found.
Then the queen she bade them share it to the feeble folk around,
With the cheese, the flesh, and the red wine, as Parzival counsel gave,
Scarce a morsel72 was left, yet they shared it, the queen and her guest so brave.
And swiftly the store had vanished, tho’ to many who yet might live,195
Nor were slain73 by cruel hunger this succour fresh life might give.
Then they bade them a couch make ready for the guest, and ’twas soft his bed,
(Had the Burgers been hawks74 for the hunting methinks they were not o’er-fed
As their scanty board bare witness) yea, the folk there, one and all,
Bare the marks of bitter hunger, save the gallant Parzival.200
Then leave he prayed of his hostess, he would lay him down to rest.
Do ye think that for tapers75 straw-wisps must light so brave a guest?
Nay, better were they I think me; he betook him, the hero fair,
To a bed so rich and stately a king well might slumber76 there,
Nor of poverty bare it token, and a carpet before it lay.205
Then he prayed the knights to go hence, nor longer there delay,
And noble lads un-shod him, and straightway he fell asleep,
Till the cry of heart-sorrow woke him, and tears that bright eyes should weep.
This chanced e’en as I will tell ye; no woman’s law she brake,
For pure was she aye, the maiden of whom this venture spake.210
Long stress of war constrained77 her, and the death of her champion true,
So heavy her heart with sorrow that sleep from her eyelids78 flew,
So she went, this royal lady, (but never such love to claim
As urgeth a gentle maiden to crave48 of a wife the name)
But she sought help and friendly counsel, tho’ clad in a warlike gear,215
A silken shift, (strife she wakeneth who doth thus to a man draw near.)
And the maiden she wrapped around her a mantle of samite long,
And she went as her steps were guided by sorrow and bitter wrong.
Her maidens and waiting women who lay there around her bed
She left them slumbering79 softly, and with noiseless footsteps sped220
To a chamber38, there, e’en as she bade them, Parzival all lonely lay,
And around his couch the tapers burnt bright as the light of day.
To his bed she turned her footsteps, and she knelt low his couch before,
But no thought of love unlawful the heart of either bore.
Of joy bereft80 was the maiden, his help she was fain to claim,225
If awhile they lay there together it brought unto neither shame.
So bitter the maiden’s sorrow that there fell full many a tear
On Parzival, and her weeping thro’ his slumbers81 the knight might hear,
And waking, he looked upon her, and sorrow and joy he felt,
And he rose up, the youthful hero, as the maiden before him knelt,230
And he spake to the queen, ‘Say, Lady, wilt thou now make a mock of me?
To God only, and never to mortal methinks shouldst thou bow the knee.
But rise thou and sit beside me, or grant me I pray this grace,
Lay thyself down where I was lying, I will seek me some other place!’
But she spake, ’Thyself wilt thou honour, and show honour alike to me,235
And by never a touch wilt shame me, I will e’en lay me down by thee.’
Then the knight he spake by his knighthood he would e’en do as he should say,
So down on the bed beside him in peace the maiden lay.
Tho’ well sped were the hours of the night-time no cock did they hear to crow,
Empty and bare the perches82, for the famine had left them so.240
Then the maiden, grieving sorely, prayed him courteous her plaint to hear,
”Twill rob thee of sleep an I tell thee, and work to thee ill I fear.
My foeman the King Klamidé, and Kingron his seneschal,
My castles and lands have wasted, yea, all but this citadel83.
My father, King Tampent?re, by his death me, poor orphan84, left245
In peril85 and need so deadly, of all hope am I well-nigh reft.
Kinsmen86 and princes many, and vassals, both rich and poor,
Yea, a mighty87 army served me, but they serve me now no more.
One half, nay, far more I think me, in defence of my land are slain,
Alas! whence shall I, poor maiden, or gladness or succour gain?250
In such sore strait do I find me, I am ready myself to kill
Ere my maidenhood88 and this body I yield to Klamidé‘s will.
His wife he is fain to make me, yet his was the hand that slew89
My Knight Schenteflur, the hero, whose heart was both brave and true,
And the flower was he of all manhood, falsehood he ne’er might know,255
Who was brother unto Liassé, and she too shall share my woe.’
But e’en as she named Liassé then sorrow awoke anew
In his heart who would fain do service, and his spirit, so high and true,
Sank, as sinketh a hill to the valley, at the thought of that maiden dear;
Yet he spake to the queen, ‘Say, Lady, how best may I serve thee here?’260
‘Sir Knight an thou couldst but rid me of Kingron the seneschal;
In knightly joust90 of my warriors91 full many before him fell.
With the morning again he cometh, and he thinketh that free from harm
His lord soon shall lie, my husband, in the clasp of my circling arm.
My Burg hast thou seen, and thou knowest how lofty its towers and high,265
Yet down to the moat below them will I fling myself joyfully92,
Ere of maidenhood King Klamidé shall rob me against my will,
If no better may be, then by dying, his boasting I yet may still!’
Then he quoth, ‘Lady, French or Breton, of what country soe’er he be,
From Kingron my hand shall shield thee, with what power may be given to me.’270
The night was spent, with the dawning the queen she arose again,
Lowly she bent before him, nor from thanks would her lips restrain.
Then she passed from the chamber softly, and no man might be aware,
Tho’ wise were he else, of her errand, save only the knight so fair.
Nor Parzival longer slumbered93, for the sun was swift to rise,275
And it pierced thro’ the clouds of morning, and smote94 on his wakened eyes;
And he heard the sweet bells chiming, as the folk church and minster sought,
For Klamidé their joy had banished95, and their land in sore peril brought.
Then up rose the young knight also; the chaplain was in his place
And he sang to God and his lady; and the guest saw the maiden’s face,280
And he gazed till the Mass was ended, and the benediction96 o’er.
Then he bade them to bring his harness, and soon was he armed once more,
A good knight and strong they deemed him, in gallant armour97 fair.
Then on came Klamidé‘s army with banners borne high in air.
And Kingron, he came full swiftly, he sped far before the force,285
And, so hath the story told me, of Iserterre’s land his horse.
And there waited before the portal the son of King Gamuret,
And the prayers and the hopes of the townsfolk on the youthful knight were set.
Nor with sword he ere this had striven—From afar did he aim his stroke,
And so swift his joust, in the meeting the gear of both chargers broke,290
And their girths were burst asunder98, and each steed to its knees was brought,
And the heroes who yet bestrode them of their swords must they needs take thought;
In their scabbards did they find them—And already did Kingron bear
Wounds in arm and breast, and I wot me that loss was his portion there.
For this joust brought him loss of the glory that methinks had been his alway295
Till he met with this knight, and their meeting, of his pride was the dying day.
And valiant did men account him, six knights had he prostrate99 laid
Who rode in one field against him, yet here was he well repaid
By Parzival’s right hand valiant, and Kingron the seneschal
Thought strange was indeed his peril, for stones surely on him fell300
Cast forth from a mighty engine—Other arms wrought his overthrow100,
For a sword clave clean thro’ his helmet, and Parzival laid him low,
And he knelt with one knee upon him, and he bade him forthwith to give
What he ne’er to a foe had given, his pledge, an he fain would live.
But he thought not to be his captor who had vanquished101 him here in field,305
But he bade him ride hence to Graharz and his pledge to its lord to yield.
‘Nay, Sir Knight, thou hadst better slay102 me, ’twas I who slew his son,
’Twas my hand of life that robbed him, Schenteflur—Thou from God hast won
Great honour, yea, men shall praise thee for the strength that thou here hast shown,
Of a sooth art thou here the victor, and Good Fortune shall be thine own.’310
Quoth Parzival, ‘Yet another is the choice I will give to thee,
Yield thou to the queen whom thy master in his wrath30 wronged so grievously!’
‘Nay! Then were I lost of a surety, for I wot with their sword-blades keen
My body they’ld hew103 in pieces, small as dust in the sun is seen!
Such sorrow of heart, I think me, and grief thro’ my hand they win,315
Full many a gallant hero who dwelleth those walls within.’
‘Then hence from this plain shalt thou journey to the kingdom of Brittany,
And bear to a gentle maiden thy pledge and thy fealty104.
For she for my sake hath suffered a sorrow she ne’er had borne,
Had not Kay been of knightly customs, and of courtesy fair forsworn.320
Say to her how with me it fareth, that I come not in joy again
Till my spear, thro’ his shield sharp-piercing, hath wiped out her honour’s stain.
To King Arthur and to his lady, and the knights of the Table Round
Bear my greeting, and say in their presence shall I never again be found
Till the day I from shame have freed me; from the shame which I too must share325
With the maiden who smiled upon me, and great grief for that greeting bare.
Say to her I am aye her servant, to serve her with service fain!’
So Kingron must swear unto him ere they parted, those heroes twain.
Thus he came afoot to the city, for thither105 had fled his steed,
The Burgers’ help in battle, from their anguish106 the folk he freed.330
But the outer host was troubled that Kingron, their chosen knight,
In this wise had been dishonoured107, and broken his dauntless might.
Then they led Parzival in triumph to their queen so fair and young,
And the maiden was fain to greet him, and her white arms around him clung,
And in close embrace she held him as she spake, ‘The wide earth doth hold335
No man I will have for my husband save him whom these arms enfold!’
And as here they disarmed108 the hero her part would the maiden bear
With ready hand and skilful110, nor her service she thought to spare.
But tho’ heavy had been his labour, yet scanty, I ween, the board.
And the Burgers they came before him, and they sware him with one accord340
They would have him for lord and master; and the queen in her turn she spake,
And she said that this knight so valiant for her love and her lord she’ld take
Who had won him a fame so mighty o’er Kingron the seneschal—
But now from the castle bulwarks111 two sails might be seen by all,
A strong wind to the haven112 brought them, and their lading must needs make glad345
The folk, they bare naught but victuals,—God’s guidance they surely had!
Then they rushed adown from the ramparts, and swift to the ships they fled,
The hungry crowd, for the booty, as leaves by the wind are sped.
With flesh they were not o’erweighted, so wasted and thin were they,
Nor they strutted113 with well-filled belly114, but bending they went their way.350
The queen’s marshal he sware the shipmen, by the doom115 of the hempen116 cord,
Safe conduct for life and lading, none should touch that which lay aboard.
Then he bade them to lead these merchants straightway into the town,
And Parzival for their lading the double he paid them down,
And gladly the merchants took it, for princely they deemed such pay;355
And the Burgers these welcome viands117 to their fires did they bear straightway.
Now fain would I there take service, no man of them all drank beer,
Wine and food had they there in plenty—Then he did as you now shall hear,
Parzival, the gallant hero, for first in portions small,
With his own right hand he shared out the viands among them all,360
Yea, even unto the nobles; so long had they lacked for bread,
He feared it had wrought them evil if perchance they were over-fed.
But to each one he gave his portion, and his counsel they deemed it right,
And more should they win ere nightfall from the hand of this gallant knight.
To their marriage couch they bade them, ’twas the will both of king and queen—365
Yet throughout the night so courteous he bare him, in truth I ween,
He little had pleased those ladies who now, in these latter days,
In passion’s heat forget all that should win for a woman praise;
Tho’ modest they seem to strangers, yet their heart gives their mien118 the lie,
And their tenderness worketh sorrow to their friend, tho’ in secrecy119.370
But the steadfast120 knight and faithful guards himself at every hour,
And well knoweth to spare a woman an she chanceth within his power.
For he thinketh, and thinketh truly, ‘For many a lonely year
For her favours I served this lady; now, behold121, the day is here
When her will is to reward me, and here we twain do lie—375
Had I touched with bare hand her vesture I were blest to eternity122!
An I vantage take of her slumbers to myself untrue I seem,
Methinks we were both dishonoured did I waken her from her dream,
For a woman’s sleep is holy, and all men shall own its sway.’
Thus the Waleis, who ne’er had feared him, lay still till the dawn of day.380
Thus he whom men called the Red Knight, a maiden he left the queen,
Yet surely she deemed in the morning his wife she o’er night had been,
And for love of her lord her tresses she bound with the morning light
As matrons are wont to bind123 them. And he won him, the gallant knight,
Castles and lands around them from the hand of his maiden bride,385
But her heart was ere this his guerdon, and in peace did the twain abide.
Thus glad in their love they held them two days till the third night fell,
And often he thought might he take her to himself it would please him well.
Then he thought of his mother’s counsel, and how Gurnemanz spake of yore,
That man and wife should as one be, and the doubt vexed his soul no more,390
And his wife did he take unto him—Love’s custom ever old,
Yet ever new to lovers, to these twain brought joy untold124.
’Twas well, not evil, with them—Now hear how the king, their foe,
As he rode in his might to battle, must tidings of evil know.
’Twas a squire who fain had told them, all crimson125 his spurs with blood;395
‘Before Pelrap?r on the meadow have they foughten those heroes good,
’Twas a bitter strife and knightly; thy seneschal fell that day,
Kingron, who led thine army, to King Arthur must take his way.
As he in departing bade them lies the army upon the plain.
Pelrap?r shalt thou find well guarded ‘gainst thyself and thine armies twain,400
There within is a gallant hero, and naught doth he crave but strife;
In the camp of thy hired soldiers is many a rumour126 rife22,
They say from the good Round Table cometh Ither of Cumberland
To the help of the queen, and knightly and valiant methinks his hand!
’Twas his arms that rode forth for jousting127, and no man his deeds shall blame,405
In such wise hath he borne his armour as winneth him meed of fame.’
Quoth the king to the squire, ‘My lady, the queen, she desireth me,
And she and her land so goodly I trow shall my portion be.
And Kingron the seneschal told me, and surely the truth he spake,
That famine doth plague the city, and peace they ere long must make,410
And the queen she her love shall proffer’—His wrath must the squire abide.
Then the king and his host passed onward, and a knight did toward them ride,
And he spared not his horse but spurred it, and told them the self-same tale,
And the king deemed the loss o’er-heavy, and courage and joy must fail.
Then a prince spake from out the army, ‘Tho’ Kingron hath valour shown,415
Yet never he fought for our manhood, he fought for himself alone.
Now let him to death be stricken—Why then should they be cast down,
Two hosts, this one, and the army that lieth before the town?’
Then he bade his lord take courage, ‘Once more will we try our fate,
Let them look to their arms, the conflict shall be for their strength too great,420
We will make an end of their gladness! Bid thy vassals and kinsmen hear,
With banners twain before them to the town shall they draw anear;
Down the hill will we ride upon them, but afoot must we storm the gate,
For so shall we work them evil, and victory shall on us wait.’
Galogandres, the Duke of Gippones, it was who this counsel gave,425
And sorrow he brought on the Burgers—but slain was this hero brave,
And slain, too, the brave Count Narant, a prince from Uckerland’s shore,
And many another hero whom dead from the field they bore.
Now hear ye another story, how the Burgers would guard their wall.
Strong stakes of wood sharp-pointed they made fast in tree-trunks tall;430
(Sore pain thus was wrought the besiegers) and the trunks were made fast that day
To a rope that by wheel was guided, so they guarded their walls alway.
And all this had they done and tested ere Klamidé would storm the gate
To avenge128 the fall of Kingron—There had come to their land of late
Greek fire, for the ships had brought it that of food brought a goodly store,435
And it burnt of the foe the weapons, and the engines of deadly war;
And battering-ram or tortoise in vain ‘gainst the walls were wheeled,
No weapon had they for onslaught but was forced to the flame to yield!
Now Kingron the seneschal journeyed till he came on to Breton ground,
In his hunting-house in Briziljan King Arthur at last he found,440
And Karmin?l did they call it—As ‘fore Pelrap?r he fought,
So at Parzival’s word his surety to the maid of Lalande he brought,
And glad was fair Kunnewaaré that, faithful, he mourned her shame
Whom men there knew as the Red Knight, and this knight at his bidding came.
And soon were the wondrous129 tidings amid the courtiers spread,445
And he stood there before King Arthur, a gallant knight ill-sped.
Then he spake unto him and his vassals in such wise as he needs must speak,
And Kay was with terror smitten, and crimson it grew, his cheek,
And he spake, ‘Is it thou, O Kingron? Ah! many a Breton knight,
Thou seneschal of Klamidé, thy hand hath o’erthrown in fight!450
If thy captor ne’er look upon me with favour, thine office high
Shall turn to thy good; we are rulers of the caldron, both thou and I,
Of thy wisdom and skill do thou aid me, to win me the favour fair
Of this maiden Kunnewaaré, and sweet cates for her board prepare!’
Nor they asked from him other ransom—Now leave we that tale and hear455
What had passed since we left the story—So the host to the town drew near,
To Pelrap?r came the King Klamidé, and a bitter strife arose.
The inner host strove with the outer, and in sooth were they gallant foes130,
Fresh strength had they won and courage, and bravely they held the field;
And Parzival, lord of the country, in the vanguard he bare his shield.460
And he swung aloft his weapon, thro’ the helm clave the blade so keen,
And the knights he o’erthrew before him found a bitter death I ween,
For there, where the corslet opened, the Burgers they pierced them thro’,
In such wise would they take their vengeance—this wrought grief to the hero true,
And Parzival, he forbade them, and they ceased at their lord’s command,465
But of living knights full twenty were captive unto their hand.
Yet Parzival well had marked it how the king and his bravest knights
Sought not fame before the portals, but far out in the plain would fight;
Then forth by a path untrodden the hero a circuit made,
And swiftly he charged where the monarch131 his banner aloft displayed.470
And, see! there a mighty slaughter132 the guard of the king befell,
And the shields they were hewn in pieces, the Burgers they fought so well.
And Parzival’s shield had vanished ‘fore the blows and the sword-blades keen;
And tho’ little his skill rejoiced them, yet all who the strife had seen,
They spoke133 but to praise his valour—Galogandres the standard bare,475
(Well he knew how to wake their courage!) but dead lay the hero there.
And Klamidé himself stood in peril, and great stress on his army lay;
Then he bade them withdraw, for the valour of the Burgers had won the day.
But Parzival, gallant hero, bade them treat their captives well
Till the dawn of the third day’s morning, and fear on his foemen fell.480
Then the young host, proud and joyful, bade the knights on their oath go free—
‘Good friends, when the word I send ye, then wend your way back to me!’
Their swords and their goodly harness as prisoners they needs must yield;
Unarmed did they fare from the city to the host on the outer field.
‘For sooth,’ spake their comrades mocking, ‘from wine must ye needs be red,485
Poor souls, since within the city ye have hungered for lack of bread!’
‘Nay! nay! ye may spare your pity,’ so spake they, the heroes good,
‘If ye lie here a whole year longer, within is such store of food,
That by them might ye well be nourished! And the queen hath the fairest knight
For her husband, that e’er won knighthood, or carried a shield in fight,490
He may well be of lofty lineage, for he lacketh no knightly skill!’
And the king needs must hear the tidings, and in sooth did they please him ill,
And heralds134 he sent to the city, and he bade them this challenge bear
To him whom the queen had wedded135, ‘If this knight the strife shall dare,
And the queen doth hold him worthy herself, and her lands so wide,495
To defend in single combat, then in peace may our hosts abide!’
And Parzival he was joyful at the message the heralds bare,
And his heart was fain for the combat; and out spake the hero fair,
‘Now I pledge me upon mine honour that no man within this wall
Shall lift his hand for my peril, alone will I stand or fall!’500
So betwixt the moat and the meadow a truce136 did they swear that day,
And those smiths of battle armed them as meet for the coming fray137.
On a gallant war-horse armèd sat the King of Brandigan,
’Twas hight Guverjorz—This charger with many a gallant man,
And many a goodly present, from Gringorz his nephew, king505
Of Ipotente did Count Narant from the north o’er the deep seas bring.
And therewith were a thousand footmen, well armed save no shield had they;
(If the tale speaketh true to the third year the king had made good their pay.)
And Gringorz sent him knights five hundred, each one with his helm on head,
And skilled were they all in battle; with Klamidé they hither sped.510
And thus had the mighty army, alike both by sea and land,
Encircled the town of Pelrap?r, and great need must its folk withstand!
Forth rode Parzival from the city to the field that should aye declare
If ’twas God’s will his wife to leave him, the child of King Tampent?re.
Proudly he rode, yet he spurred not his steed to its swiftest flight,515
And ’twas armed for need, and its covering was a samite of red so bright,
And the iron lay beneath it—And the hero himself shone fair
In his harness red, red his corslet, and the shield that he proudly bare.
And Klamidé began the conflict—A short spear of wood unwrought,
With that would he fell his foeman, and the joust from afar he sought;520
And Guverjorz sprang forth swiftly, and the joust it was ridden well
By those heroes young and beardless, nor one from his saddle fell,
And never a horse or a rider had foughten a better fight;
And the steam rose in clouds from the chargers on which sat each gallant knight,
And so fierce was the fight that the horses, out-wearied with conflict sore,525
Stumbled and fell together, in sooth could they do no more.
And joyful they smote, the heroes, till fire from the helm must spring,
Small time had they there for leisure, but zeal138 to their task must bring;
And the shields were hewn in pieces, and the splinters were tossed on high,
As shuttlecocks gaily139 smitten to the winds of heaven fly.530
Yet Gamuret’s son was unwearied, and never a limb did ache,
Tho’ Klamidé deemed that the foemen from the city the truce would break.
Then he bade his fellow-foeman to look to his honour well,
And stay the hand of the slingers, for the blows heavy on him fell
As of stones shot forth from an engine—But Parzival made reply,535
‘Nay, safe art thou from the slingers, my word is thy surety,
Thou hast peace from mine hand, and I swear thee that never a sling32 shall break
Head, or breast, or thigh140, thou art safe here, were it but for mine honour’s sake!’
All too soon was Klamidé wearied and spent with the deadly fight,
Who was victor, and who was vanquished, ere long might be seen aright,540
And they looked on the King Klamidé, on the grass was he laid alow,
And Parzival’s right hand gripped him till forth streamed the crimson flow
Of blood from the ears and nostrils141, and the green turf was dyed with red;
And his foeman unbound the helmet and visor, and bared his head,
The vanquished would face the death-blow, and the victor spake, ‘Here I free545
My wife for aye from thy wooing! Learn thou what Death may be!’
‘Nay! nay! thou gallant hero, thirty-fold doth thy glory grow
Thro’ the valour thine hand hath shown here, since in strife thou hast laid me low.
What higher fame dost thou look for? Kondwiramur sure shall say
That Good Fortune hath smiled upon thee, whilst I am Misfortune’s prey;550
Thy land hast thou now delivered—As when one a leaking boat
Doth free from the load of water, that it light o’er the waves may float,
So lightened am I of honour! Manly142 honour and joy I trow
Are waxen thin and faded, what profit to slay me now?
From children and children’s children mine heritage shall be shame,555
To do more here methinks were needless—For joy thou hast won and fame,
And a living death is my portion, since for ever from her I part,
Who fast in love’s magic fetters143 hath held me both mind and heart,
Little good it forsooth hath brought me, ah! most wretched henceforth am I,
And this land and its lovely lady for aye in thy power shall lie!’560
Now he who was here the victor on Gurnemanz’ counsel thought,
How mercy should well beseem him who with manhood had valiant fought,
And he thought him the rede to follow; and thus to the king he spake,
‘I free thee not, to the father of Liassé submission144 make!’
‘Nay, Sir Knight, I have wrought him evil, ’twas thro’ me that his son was slain,565
An ill-fate wouldst thou bring upon me! The hand of thy queen to gain,
With Schenteflur I battled, and in sooth had I died that day,
Save that Kingron came to my succour, and his hand did the hero slay.
For Gurnemanz of Graharz had sent him to Brobarz’ land
At the head of a gallant army; ’twas a fair and knightly band,570
Nine hundred knights who fought well, and rode upon mail-clad steeds,
And fifteen hundred footmen all armed for valiant deeds,
For naught but shields should fail them—Too great their might I thought,
But the seed of such goodly harvest once more their country sought.
Yet now hath my loss been greater! Of my heroes but few are left,575
What more would thine hand take from me, who of gladness am now bereft?’
‘An easier way I’ll show thee, to Brittany shalt thou ride,
Kingron has gone before thee, there King Arthur he doth abide,
To him shalt thou bear my greeting, and bid him to mourn alway
The shame I bare as my portion when I rode from his court away.580
A maiden who smiled upon me for my sake was smitten sore—
Of all that in life e’er grieved me naught ever hath grieved me more!
And that maid shalt thou tell of my sorrow; and thy pledge to her hand shalt yield,
And do even as she shall bid thee—Or die here on this foughten field!’
‘So, if here I must choose betwixt them, not long shall my choice delay,’585
Spake the King of Brandigan swiftly, ‘From hence will I ride straightway!’
But his oath did he swear ere he parted whom pride had in peril brought.
Then Parzival, the hero, for his wearied charger sought,
And his foot touched nor horse nor stirrup as he light to the saddle sprung,
And his steed the hewn shields’ splinters around him in circles flung.590
And the Burgers I ween were joyful—but their foemen were sad and sore,
For flesh and bone were wearied, and sorrow of heart they bore.
And they brought King Klamidé wounded to those who might give him aid,
And the dead on the bier they bare them, and to rest in the grave they laid.
From many a guest unwelcome the land at last was freed,595
And the gallant King Klamidé to L?ver he rode with speed.
Now it fell at this time King Arthur and the knights of the Table Round,
And many another hero, at Dianasdron were found.
And in sooth no lie I tell ye when I say that this plain so good
Bare of tent-poles a greater number than the trees in Spessart’s wood.600
For ’twas ever the wont of King Arthur the high feast of Pentecost
To keep with his knights and vassals, and of maidens a goodly host.
There were many a noble banner, and many a warlike shield
With coat of arms emblazoned, and fair tents stood adown the field;
’Twould be thought of the world a marvel145, who should make all the travelling gear605
For such wondrous host of ladies as those that were gathered here!
And I think me that never a maiden but had counted it to her shame
If no knight mid16 the knights around her she might as her lover claim!
Came I myself to such gathering146, an such youthful knights were there,
I were loth if my wife beside me thro’ such tumult were fain to fare—610
(Nay, when folk thus come together far liefer were I away)
May be one might speak unto her, and some such words would say—
‘With love of her was he smitten, and ne’er might he healing know
Save that she herself should heal him. Yea, an but her will were so,
Her knight would he be for ever, to serve her his whole life long’615
I were swift, with my wife beside me, to flee from such foolish throng147!
Yet enough of myself have I spoken—Now hear how King Arthur’s tent
Might be known apart from the others; before it on gladness bent
He feasted, the king, with his vassals whose hearts never falsehood knew,
And with many a stately maiden, whose thoughts aye to jousting flew,620
As if with darts148 they sported, and their friend ‘gainst the foe would aim,
And if ill befell their hero with sweet words to his aid they came.
Then the youthful King Klamidé in the ring would he bridle draw;
His steel-clad limbs and charger the wife of King Arthur saw,
His helmet and good shield cloven her maidens they saw right well—625
So he came to the court, (who had sent him small need have I here to tell.)
So sprang he adown from his charger, and they thronged149 him on either hand
Ere he came where she sat whom he sought for, Kunnewaaré of fair Lalande.
And he spake, ‘Art thou she, O Lady, to whom I owe service fair?
(Yet need doth in part constrain6 me) from the Red Knight I greeting bear,630
He willeth to take upon him the shame that thy lot hath been;
He prays that King Arthur mourn it—Thou wast smitten for him I ween,
Here, Lady, my pledge I bring thee, so my victor hath bidden me,
Else my body to death were forfeit—I will do here as pleaseth thee!’
Then the maiden Kunnewaaré by his hand led the gallant knight635
Where Queen Guinevere was seated, she ate with her maidens bright;
And Kay uprose from the table as the tidings he needs must hear,
They brought gladness to Kunnewaaré, but to Kay had they wrought but fear.
And he quoth, ‘What he speaketh, Lady, who thus unto thee hath sped
He speaketh perforce, yet I think me he greatly hath been misled!640
I thought but to teach thee better, yet for this cause thou hatest me!
Now bid thou this knight disarm109 him, for his standing o’er-long shall be.’
Then she bade him put off his helmet and visor, the maiden true,
And e’en as the bands were loosened Klamidé the king they knew,
And Kingron he looked upon him, and he saw his lord again,645
And he wrung150 his hands in his anguish till as dry twigs151 they cracked amain.
Then the seneschal of Klamidé, from the table he sprung straightway,
And he asked of his lord the tidings; and joyless was he that day,
For he spake, ‘I am born to sorrow; I have lost such a gallant host,
No man that was born of woman, I think me shall more have lost.650
And the load of such bitter sorrow lieth heavy upon my breast,
And joy is to me a stranger, and gladness a fleeting152 guest!
And grey am I grown for the anguish she hath wrought me, Kondwiramur,—
Yea, the sorrow of Pontius Pilate, and false Judas who evermore
Must grieve for his faithless dealings, who did Christ unto death betray,655
What of punishment God layeth on them that woe would I bear alway—
If so be that the Lady of Brobarz were my wife of goodwill and free,
And mine arms held her fast, I had recked not what hereafter should chance to me.
But, alas! for her love is withholden from the ruler of Iserterre,
And my land and my folk henceforward for her sake shall sorrow bear.660
Mine uncle’s son, Mabonagrein, for her love long hath suffered pain;
And by knightly hand constrainèd in thy court I, O king, draw rein153!
And well dost thou know in my kingdom much harm have I done to thee,
Forget that, true knight and faithful, from thy hate do thou set me free
Since here I abide, a captive—And this maiden my life shall shield,665
Since I stand in her sight, her servant, and my pledge to her hand would yield!’
Then of knightly heart King Arthur forgave him as he would pray,
And with faithful words, and kindly154, showed favour to him that day.
Far and wide did they tell the tidings how the King of Brandigan
Rode hither, and man and maiden in thronging155 crowds they ran.670
Then the king he would crave a comrade, and he spake out with joyless mien,
‘Commend me unto Sir Gawain, if thou deemest me worth, O Queen!
Well I know that he would desire it, and if he thy word obey,
Then he honoureth thee, and the Red Knight shall win praise at his hand to-day.’
Then King Arthur he bade his nephew deal well with the captive king,675
(Tho’ I wot well, without his bidding, Sir Gawain had done this thing.)
And the conquered knight, in whose dealings no falsehood had part or share,
From the vassals and gallant heroes won a welcome both fit and fair.
Then Kingron he spake in sorrow, ‘Alas! that I needs must see
The day when in Breton dwellings156 my king shall a captive be!680
For richer wert thou than Arthur, and of vassals a greater host
Hath served thee, nor strength was lacking, and of youth canst thou make thy boast.
Shall men count it to Arthur’s honour that Kay in his wrath did smite157
A princess whose heart hath shown her the wisdom to choose aright,
And smile upon one whom henceforward all men may with truth proclaim685
Elect to the highest honour and crown of true knightly fame?
The tree of their fame these Bretons may deem to have waxen high;
Dead lay Cumberland’s king, but I wot well be by no deed of theirs must die!
Nor the fame shall be theirs that, my master, thou didst yield to that self-same knight,
Or that I myself have been vanquished in fair and open fight;690
And the sparks sprang bright from our helmets, and our swords clave the whistling air
As for life and death we battled, and men looked on our combat fair.’
Then all at the good Round Table, both rich and poor alike,
With one voice spake that Kay did evil when a maiden he thought to strike.
But now will we leave their story, and fare back unto Pelrap?r695
Where Parzival reigned158 as monarch; the waste lands were builded fair,
And joy was their lot and singing, (and red gold and jewels bright
King Tampent?re left in the city where awhile he had reigned in might)
Then rich gifts he gave till men loved him for his knightly hand and free;
New shields and costly159 banners the pride of his land should be,700
And many a joust and Tourney did he and his heroes ride.
And e’en on the distant borders in gallant deeds he vied,
That hero young and dauntless, and no foeman might e’er deny
That on battle-field or in Tourney his hand won the victory.
And now of the queen would I tell ye—What lot might ye hold so fair705
As hers, that gentle lady? In earth’s joys had she fullest share.
Her love it might bud and blossom, nor weakness nor wavering show,
For the worth of her lord and husband her heart scarce might fail to know.
And each found their life in the other, and each was the other’s love.
If, as saith the tale, they were parted, what grief must each true heart move!710
And I mourn for that gentle lady, her body, her folk, her land,
(So he won of her love the guerdon) had he freed with his strong right hand.
Thus courteous he spake one morning (and the knights stood their lord beside),
‘Lady, an it so please thee, give me leave that I hence may ride
And see how my mother fareth, if weal be her lot, or woe,715
For naught of all that befalls her methinks I for long may know.
For a short space would I go thither; and if ventures my skill approve
Therewith would I do thee service, and be worthy my lady’s love.’
Thus he spake, and the story telleth she thought not to say him ‘Nay,’
For she deemed it well; from his vassals all lonely he took his way.
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收听单词发音
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1
courteous
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| adj.彬彬有礼的，客气的 | |
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knight
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| n.骑士，武士；爵士 | |
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knightly
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| adj. 骑士般的 adv. 骑士般地 | |
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garb
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| n.服装，装束 | |
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alas
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| int.唉(表示悲伤、忧愁、恐惧等) | |
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constrain
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| vt.限制，约束；克制，抑制 | |
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axe
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| n.斧子；v.用斧头砍，削减 | |
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8
lore
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| n.传说；学问，经验，知识 | |
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9
maiden
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| n.少女，处女；adj.未婚的，纯洁的，无经验的 | |
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proffered
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| v.提供，贡献，提出( proffer的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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heed
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| v.注意，留意；n.注意，留心 | |
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12
furrowed
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| v.犁田，开沟( furrow的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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lengthened
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| （时间或空间）延长，伸长( lengthen的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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torrent
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| n.激流，洪流；爆发，(话语等的)连发 | |
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foaming
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| adj.布满泡沫的；发泡 | |
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mid
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| adj.中央的，中间的 | |
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bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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onward
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| adj.向前的，前进的；adv.向前，前进，在先 | |
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standing
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| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
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knights
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| 骑士； （中古时代的）武士( knight的名词复数 )； 骑士； 爵士； （国际象棋中）马 | |
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strife
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| n.争吵，冲突，倾轧，竞争 | |
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rife
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| adj.(指坏事情)充斥的，流行的，普遍的 | |
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gallant
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| adj.英勇的，豪侠的；(向女人)献殷勤的 | |
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bridle
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| n.笼头，束缚；vt.抑制，约束；动怒 | |
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grassy
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| adj.盖满草的；长满草的 | |
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forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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foe
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| n.敌人，仇敌 | |
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hatred
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| n.憎恶，憎恨，仇恨 | |
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woe
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| n.悲哀，苦痛，不幸，困难；int.用来表达悲伤或惊慌 | |
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wrath
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| n.愤怒，愤慨，暴怒 | |
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nay
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| adv.不；n.反对票，投反对票者 | |
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sling
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| vt.扔；悬挂；n.挂带；吊索，吊兜；弹弓 | |
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dart
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| v.猛冲，投掷；n.飞镖，猛冲 | |
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34
squire
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| n.护卫, 侍从, 乡绅 | |
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35
valiant
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| adj.勇敢的，英勇的；n.勇士，勇敢的人 | |
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36
javelin
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| n.标枪，投枪 | |
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37
chambers
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| n.房间( chamber的名词复数 )；（议会的）议院；卧室；会议厅 | |
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38
chamber
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| n.房间，寝室；会议厅；议院；会所 | |
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39
scanty
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| adj.缺乏的，仅有的，节省的，狭小的，不够的 | |
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40
naught
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| n.无，零 [=nought] | |
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41
rib
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| n.肋骨，肋状物 | |
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42
mead
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| n.蜂蜜酒 | |
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43
vessel
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| n.船舶；容器，器皿；管，导管，血管 | |
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44
hiss
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| v.发出嘶嘶声；发嘘声表示不满 | |
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45
joyful
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| adj.欢乐的，令人欢欣的 | |
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46
conceal
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| v.隐藏，隐瞒，隐蔽 | |
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47
lamentation
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| n.悲叹，哀悼 | |
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48
crave
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| vt.渴望得到，迫切需要，恳求，请求 | |
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49
craved
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| 渴望，热望( crave的过去式 )； 恳求，请求 | |
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50
boughs
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| 大树枝( bough的名词复数 ) | |
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51
vassal
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| n.附庸的；属下；adj.奴仆的 | |
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52
vassals
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| n.奴仆( vassal的名词复数 )；（封建时代）诸侯；从属者；下属 | |
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53
cleansed
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| 弄干净，清洗( cleanse的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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54
rust
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| n.锈；v.生锈；(脑子)衰退 | |
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55
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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56
mantle
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| n.斗篷，覆罩之物，罩子；v.罩住，覆盖，脸红 | |
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57
sable
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| n.黑貂；adj.黑色的 | |
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58
garnished
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| v.给（上餐桌的食物）加装饰( garnish的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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59
wilt
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| v.(使)植物凋谢或枯萎；(指人)疲倦，衰弱 | |
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60
maidens
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| 处女( maiden的名词复数 )； 少女； 未婚女子； （板球运动）未得分的一轮投球 | |
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61
smitten
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| 猛打，重击，打击( smite的过去分词 ) | |
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62
betokens
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| v.预示，表示( betoken的第三人称单数 ) | |
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63
wrought
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| v.引起；以…原料制作；运转；adj.制造的 | |
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64
folly
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| n.愚笨，愚蠢，蠢事，蠢行，傻话 | |
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65
wont
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| adj.习惯于；v.习惯；n.习惯 | |
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66
goodwill
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| n.善意，亲善，信誉，声誉 | |
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67
thereby
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| adv.因此，从而 | |
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68
abide
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| vi.遵守；坚持；vt.忍受 | |
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69
alpine
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| adj.高山的；n.高山植物 | |
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70
vexed
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| adj.争论不休的；（指问题等）棘手的；争论不休的问题；烦恼的v.使烦恼( vex的过去式和过去分词 )；使苦恼；使生气；详细讨论 | |
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71
tumult
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| n.喧哗；激动，混乱；吵闹 | |
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72
morsel
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| n.一口，一点点 | |
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73
slain
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| 杀死，宰杀，杀戮( slay的过去分词 )； (slay的过去分词) | |
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74
hawks
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| 鹰( hawk的名词复数 )； 鹰派人物，主战派人物 | |
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75
tapers
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| （长形物体的）逐渐变窄( taper的名词复数 )； 微弱的光； 极细的蜡烛 | |
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76
slumber
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| n.睡眠，沉睡状态 | |
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77
constrained
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| adj.束缚的,节制的 | |
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78
eyelids
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| n.眼睑( eyelid的名词复数 )；眼睛也不眨一下；不露声色；面不改色 | |
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79
slumbering
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| 微睡，睡眠（slumber的现在分词形式） | |
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80
bereft
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| adj.被剥夺的 | |
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81
slumbers
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| 睡眠，安眠( slumber的名词复数 ) | |
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82
perches
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| 栖息处( perch的名词复数 )； 栖枝； 高处； 鲈鱼 | |
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83
citadel
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| n.城堡；堡垒；避难所 | |
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84
orphan
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| n.孤儿；adj.无父母的 | |
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85
peril
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| n.(严重的)危险；危险的事物 | |
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86
kinsmen
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| n.家属，亲属( kinsman的名词复数 ) | |
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87
mighty
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| adj.强有力的；巨大的 | |
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88
maidenhood
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| n. 处女性, 处女时代 | |
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89
slew
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| v.（使）旋转；n.大量，许多 | |
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90
joust
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| v.马上长枪比武，竞争 | |
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91
warriors
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| 武士，勇士，战士( warrior的名词复数 ) | |
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92
joyfully
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| adv. 喜悦地, 高兴地 | |
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93
slumbered
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| 微睡，睡眠（slumber的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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94
smote
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| v.猛打，重击，打击( smite的过去式 ) | |
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95
banished
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| v.放逐，驱逐( banish的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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96
benediction
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| n.祝福；恩赐 | |
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97
armour
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| （=armor）n.盔甲；装甲部队 | |
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98
asunder
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| adj.分离的，化为碎片 | |
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99
prostrate
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| v.拜倒，平卧，衰竭；adj.拜倒的，平卧的，衰竭的 | |
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100
overthrow
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| v.推翻，打倒，颠覆；n.推翻，瓦解，颠覆 | |
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101
vanquished
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| v.征服( vanquish的过去式和过去分词 )；战胜；克服；抑制 | |
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102
slay
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| v.杀死，宰杀，杀戮 | |
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103
hew
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| v.砍；伐；削 | |
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104
fealty
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| n.忠贞，忠节 | |
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105
thither
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| adv.向那里；adj.在那边的，对岸的 | |
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106
anguish
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| n.(尤指心灵上的)极度痛苦，烦恼 | |
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107
dishonoured
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| a.不光彩的，不名誉的 | |
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108
disarmed
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| v.裁军( disarm的过去式和过去分词 )；使息怒 | |
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109
disarm
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| v.解除武装，回复平常的编制，缓和 | |
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110
skilful
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| (=skillful)adj.灵巧的，熟练的 | |
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111
bulwarks
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| n.堡垒( bulwark的名词复数 )；保障；支柱；舷墙 | |
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112
haven
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| n.安全的地方，避难所，庇护所 | |
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113
strutted
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| 趾高气扬地走，高视阔步( strut的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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114
belly
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| n.肚子，腹部；(像肚子一样)鼓起的部分，膛 | |
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115
doom
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| n.厄运，劫数；v.注定，命定 | |
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116
hempen
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| adj. 大麻制的, 大麻的 | |
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117
viands
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| n.食品，食物 | |
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118
mien
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| n.风采；态度 | |
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119
secrecy
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| n.秘密，保密，隐蔽 | |
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120
steadfast
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| adj.固定的，不变的，不动摇的；忠实的；坚贞不移的 | |
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121
behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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122
eternity
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| n.不朽，来世；永恒，无穷 | |
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123
bind
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| vt.捆，包扎；装订；约束；使凝固；vi.变硬 | |
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124
untold
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| adj.数不清的，无数的 | |
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125
crimson
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| n./adj.深(绯)红色(的)；vi.脸变绯红色 | |
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126
rumour
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| n.谣言，谣传，传闻 | |
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127
jousting
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| （骑士）骑马用长矛比武( joust的现在分词 ) | |
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128
avenge
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| v.为...复仇，为...报仇 | |
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129
wondrous
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| adj.令人惊奇的，奇妙的；adv.惊人地；异乎寻常地；令人惊叹地 | |
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130
foes
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| 敌人，仇敌( foe的名词复数 ) | |
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131
monarch
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| n.帝王，君主，最高统治者 | |
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132
slaughter
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| n.屠杀，屠宰；vt.屠杀，宰杀 | |
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133
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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134
heralds
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| n.使者( herald的名词复数 )；预报者；预兆；传令官v.预示( herald的第三人称单数 )；宣布（好或重要） | |
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135
wedded
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| adj.正式结婚的；渴望…的，执著于…的v.嫁，娶，（与…）结婚( wed的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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136
truce
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| n.休战，(争执，烦恼等的)缓和；v.以停战结束 | |
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137
fray
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| v.争吵；打斗；磨损，磨破；n.吵架；打斗 | |
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138
zeal
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| n.热心，热情，热忱 | |
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139
gaily
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| adv.欢乐地，高兴地 | |
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140
thigh
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| n.大腿；股骨 | |
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141
nostrils
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| 鼻孔( nostril的名词复数 ) | |
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142
manly
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| adj.有男子气概的；adv.男子般地，果断地 | |
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143
fetters
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| n.脚镣( fetter的名词复数 )；束缚v.给…上脚镣，束缚( fetter的第三人称单数 ) | |
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144
submission
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| n.服从，投降；温顺，谦虚；提出 | |
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145
marvel
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| vi.(at)惊叹vt.感到惊异；n.令人惊异的事 | |
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146
gathering
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| n.集会，聚会，聚集 | |
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147
throng
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| n.人群，群众；v.拥挤，群集 | |
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148
darts
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| n.掷飞镖游戏；飞镖( dart的名词复数 )；急驰，飞奔v.投掷，投射( dart的第三人称单数 )；向前冲，飞奔 | |
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149
thronged
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| v.成群，挤满( throng的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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150
wrung
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| 绞( wring的过去式和过去分词 )； 握紧（尤指别人的手）； 把（湿衣服）拧干； 绞掉（水） | |
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151
twigs
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| 细枝，嫩枝( twig的名词复数 ) | |
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152
fleeting
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| adj.短暂的，飞逝的 | |
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153
rein
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| n.疆绳，统治，支配；vt.以僵绳控制，统治 | |
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154
kindly
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| adj.和蔼的，温和的，爽快的；adv.温和地，亲切地 | |
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155
thronging
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| v.成群，挤满( throng的现在分词 ) | |
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156
dwellings
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| n.住处，处所( dwelling的名词复数 ) | |
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157
smite
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| v.重击；彻底击败；n.打；尝试；一点儿 | |
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158
reigned
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| vi.当政，统治（reign的过去式形式） | |
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159
costly
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| adj.昂贵的，价值高的，豪华的 | |
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