Idylls of the King Chapter Summary & Analysis - Balin and Balan Summary

Balin and Balan Summary

Two brothers, exiled from Arthur's court, return and attempt to prove their worth by challenging any knight who passes by them. After Arthur comes—in secret—and defeats them, he summons them to his court and asks what they are doing there. They explain that they were trying to prove their valor and so be made knights, but they have lost all hope since they were defeated. Admiring their humility, he grants their wish. Not long after, Balan receives his first mission. One of Arthur's men was struck down, supposedly, by a wood devil to the north that is said to lurk in Sir Garlon's realm. Balan is to defeat this evil spirit.

Balin, who had hitherto relied upon his brother to guide him in virtue, obtains permission to bear the Queen's symbol on his shield so that he can always be inspired by her purity....
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