Arthurian LegendsKnights of the Round Table

Sir Bors and the Grail

Sir Bors proves his worthiness for the Holy Grail by choosing divine duty over family loyalty.

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Illustration for Sir Bors and the Grail - a knights of the round table Arthurian Legends story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Explore the legendary quest of Sir Bors and the Grail, a tale of faith and sacrifice where a knight chooses duty over family to witness the ultimate spiritual relic.

Sir Bors de Ganis was among the noblest of King Arthur's knights, known not for perfection, but for his unwavering moral conscience. During the quest for the Holy Grail, Bors faced a divine trial: he encountered his brother, Sir Lionel, being brutally beaten by two knights, while simultaneously witnessing a virtuous maiden being abducted. Tormented, Bors prayed for guidance and chose to rescue the maiden, believing that saving an innocent was a higher duty than a blood feud. His brother survived but was consumed by rage, attempting to kill Bors for his perceived betrayal. Bors refused to lift a sword against his kin, even as he faced death. This steadfast commitment to his vows and his capacity for mercy marked him as one of the three knights—alongside Galahad and Percival—worthy of achieving the Grail. Ultimately, Bors was the only one of the three to return to Camelot, bringing the news of the Grail's departure and the end of the quest to King Arthur's court.

The Moral

True virtue is found in the courage to make difficult moral choices and the strength to show mercy even when facing personal betrayal.

“For I would rather have your anger than lose my soul by forsaking the path of righteousness.”

Fun Fact

Sir Bors is unique among the Grail knights because he was the only one who had previously broken his vow of chastity, yet through sincere penance, he was still deemed worthy of the holy relic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Sir Bors and the Grail?

The moral is that spiritual integrity and the protection of the innocent must take precedence over personal feelings or family ties. It also emphasizes the power of mercy and non-violence in the face of anger.

Who were the three knights who found the Holy Grail?

The three knights who successfully achieved the Holy Grail were Sir Galahad, Sir Percival, and Sir Bors. Each represented a different path to spiritual purity: Galahad was sinless, Percival was innocent, and Bors was repentant and dutiful.

Why did Sir Bors choose the maiden over his brother?

Sir Bors chose to save the maiden because she was a helpless innocent facing immediate death, whereas his brother Lionel was a warrior involved in a fight. Bors believed his knightly vow to protect the weak was his highest priority.

Did Sir Bors survive the Grail quest?

Yes, Sir Bors was the only one of the three successful Grail knights to survive and return to King Arthur's court. Galahad ascended to heaven with the Grail, and Percival died shortly after in a hermitage.

How did Sir Lionel react to Bors' choice?

Sir Lionel was deeply offended and sought to kill Bors out of vengeance. Despite Lionel's violent attacks, Bors refused to fight back, a display of restraint that further proved his worthiness for the Grail.

What does Sir Bors represent in Arthurian legend?

Sir Bors represents the 'everyman' who is not born perfect like Galahad, but achieves greatness through repentance, self-discipline, and the consistent choice of virtue over worldly desires.