Author: Madison Julius Cawein

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In samite sark yclad was she;
    And that fair glimmerish band of gold
 Which crowned long, savage locks of hair
         In the moon brent cold.

 She with big eyeballs gloomed and glowered,
    And lightly hummed some Elfin's song,
 And one could naught save on her stare
         And fare along.

 Yea; sad and lute-like was that song
    And softly said its mystery;
 Which quaintly sang in elden verse
         "Thy love I'll be."

 And oft it said: "I love thee true,
    Sir Ewain, champion of the fair."
 And never wist he what a witch
         Was that one there.

 And never wist he that a witch
    Had bound him with her wily hair,
 Eke with dark art had ta'en his heart
         To slay him there.

 And all his soul did wax amort
    To stars, to hills, to slades, to streams,
 And it but held that sorceress fair
         As one of dreams.

 And now he kens some castle gray
    Wild turrets ivied, in the moon,
 Old, where through woodlands foaming on
         A torrent shone....

 In its high hall full twenty knights
    With visors barred all sternly stand;
 The following of some gracious brave,
         Lord of the land.

 And lo! when that dim damosel
    Moved down the hall, they louted low;
 And she was queen of all that band,
         That dame of snow.

 Now on that knight she stared eftsoons,
    And cried on high unto her crew,
 "Behold! Sir Knights, the dastard brave
         Your king that slew."

 And all those heathen knights wox wild
    Attonce; and all against him drave;
 Long battle blades and daggers bright
         Aloft did wave.

 The press on him puissant bare
    And smote him to the rush-strown earth; - 
 Tall, tall o'er all that Fairy rose
         Aloud with mirth.

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Type of Poem: Ballad

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: The poem is a rich narrative tapestry that conveys a tale of enchantment, betrayal, and knightly combat. It is steeped in the traditions of medieval romance, echoing the complexities of courtly love, chivalry, and mischievous, often perilous, magic.

The poem's diction and structure evoke the archaic charm of Middle English verse, featuring a mix of modern and old-world language. This adds a layer of authenticity to the poem, enhancing its medieval atmosphere. The narrative follows a clear progression: the enchantment of the knight, his engagement with the enchantress, and the eventual betrayal leading to his downfall.

The poem's tone is simultaneously romantic and tragic, highlighting the duality of the enchantress' character—a bewitching, captivating figure who ultimately proves treacherous. The repeated use of the word 'witch' underscores this duplicity, suggesting a dangerous, malignant force beneath her captivating exterior.

The poem also makes deft use of imagery, painting vivid pictures of the characters and their surroundings. The "castle gray," the "turrets ivied, in the moon," and the ominous gathering of knights all create a palpable sense of place and tension. The poem thus effectively blends elements of romance, fantasy, and tragedy to create a captivating narrative that explores themes of deception, love, and the dangers of enchantment.