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Elaine of Corbenic facts for kids

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Elaine of Corbenic
Matter of Britain character
Sangreal.jpg
A 1917 illustration from The Romance of King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table, abridged from Le Morte d'Arthur by Alfred W. Pollard, depicting Lady Elaine carrying the Grail through the halls of King Pelles' palace
First appearance Vulgate Cycle
Information
Occupation Princess
Children Galahad
Relatives King Pelles
Home Corbenic

Elaine of Corbenic is a famous princess from the exciting stories of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. She is the daughter of King Pelles, who is also known as the Fisher King. Elaine lives in a magical castle called Corbenic. She is best known as the mother of Galahad, one of the bravest knights who goes on a quest for the Holy Grail. It's important not to confuse her with another character named Elaine of Astolat, who was a different woman also connected to Lancelot.

Elaine's Story in Arthurian Legend

Elaine's story first appears in old French tales called the Prose Lancelot. In these stories, she is described as a very beautiful woman.

Elaine and Lancelot's First Meeting

A powerful sorceress named Morgan le Fay was jealous of Elaine's beauty. Morgan used her magic to trap Elaine in a very hot, boiling bath. Luckily, the brave knight Lancelot came to her rescue and freed her from the magical trap.

After Lancelot saved her, Elaine developed strong feelings for him. However, Lancelot was already in love with Queen Guinevere, King Arthur's wife.

The Birth of Galahad

Elaine wanted Lancelot to return her feelings. With some magical help, she was able to spend time with Lancelot. Later, Elaine told Lancelot that she was going to have a baby. Lancelot was surprised but agreed to accept the child. Elaine stayed at her father's castle and gave birth to their son, who they named Galahad.

Lancelot's Sadness and Cure

When Queen Guinevere found out about Lancelot and Elaine, she became very angry. She told Lancelot that she didn't want to see him anymore. Lancelot became very sad and confused because of this. He left the castle and wandered away, feeling lost.

Elaine later found Lancelot in her garden. He was still very upset and confused. Elaine knew about the special power of the Holy Grail, which was kept in her father's castle. She brought Lancelot to the Grail, and its magic helped him to feel better and regain his senses. After Lancelot recovered, he decided to stay with Elaine for a while.

Who is Galahad?

Galahad, Elaine's son, grew up to be one of the most famous knights in Arthurian legend. He was known for his purity and bravery. Galahad was the only knight who was pure enough to complete the quest for the Holy Grail. His story is a very important part of the King Arthur tales.

Images for kids

See also

  • List of Arthurian characters
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