Reading Notes: Faerie Queene Britomart: Reading A

Britomart's Characteristics

1. Intelligent: Britomart seems to know exactly what to do to outsmart her enemies. Her disguise fools everyone, and she knows what tricks and tools to use to defeat her enemies. She's also curious, and wants to know more about the enchanter, Castle Joyous, Artegall, etc. 

2. Brave: Britomart does not appear to ever have fear in the story so far. Before she left her home, she was very sad, but she showed a lot of courage in deciding to go out in search of Artegall. Since she started her quest, she does not show any hesitation. She walks into fire fearlessly, and charges into battle with multiple knights without the thought of losing. No person can scare her either, not even the most powerful enchanter. 

3. Self-Assured: Britomart is a leader; she doesn't wait for anyone else to tell her what to do. She knows she is powerful, especially with her enchanted spear and shield. She convinces Scudamour to go on a dangerous quest with her, even when he doesn't want to.

4. Loving: Britomart's entire quest is based on her love for Artegall, and she does not ever waver in this feeling. Britomart also shows love to other people she encounters, helping them solve their problems and befriending many good knights. She is very happy to know that Artegall is also a just, honorable person.

5. Adventurous: Britomart says she prefers being a knight and having adventures all over the kingdom of the Faerie Queene to other "ladylike" activities such as sewing. She fits in very well with the other knights, who all wander around the kingdom in search of honor and glory. She is captivated by new places, like the homes of the enchanter, the miserly churl, and the Lady of Delight, but she doesn't care for their excessive luxury. Britomart prefers difficult adventures to a life of living lavishly.

Photo from Nik Shuilahin on Unsplash.

Story Source: Stories from the Faerie Queene by Mary Macleod, with drawings by A. G. Walker (1916).