The Accolade-a cermeony that conferred knighthood in medieval times. Though this gentle maiden uses the subsequent ritual of lightly touching the candidate's shoulder with a sword, a highly romantic aspect pervades the entire work.
The romantic tale of the Lady of Shalott inspired many Pre-Raphaelite artists and writers. Tennyson's poem described the Lady as being locked in the tower and unable to see the world only through a reflection in a mirror lest an unknown curse befall her. Here, depicted in her boat, the maiden glances directly at the handsome knight Lancelot, instantly condemning herself never to reach Camelot.
Links to Special Places
Elizabethan Insults:
Rules of Chivalry
Merlin Speaks
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