Gareth And Lynette

The poem "Ending to 'Gareth and Lynette'" by Martha Julia Elliott is a creative continuation of Alfred Lord Tennyson's "Idylls of the King," focusing on the characters Gareth and Lynette. In this narrative, the story unfolds with Fair Lyonors, the lady of Gareth's quest, who resides in the foreboding and ancient realm of Perilous. After Gareth achieves significant victories, Lyonors, surrounded by her maidens, celebrates in honor of her courageous knight. She acknowledges Gareth's heroism and the perils he has shielded her from. The poem explores the transformative power of the unknown and the mysterious, which captivates Lyonors' heart. Despite Lynette's previous arrogance and vanity, it is Lyonors' sweet demeanor, more than her considerable beauty, that wins Gareth's deep devotion and love. The poem concludes with the mutual recognition of love between Gareth and Lyonors, leading to their union, symbolically joined by Fate. Elliott's version emphasizes the enchantment of the unfamiliar and the profound change it can have on the human heart, aligning with the themes of chivalry and romance prevalent in Tennyson's original work.