Chapter 2

The Task of the Hero

Essential to determine the original nature of the task imposed upon the hero. Versions examined. The Gawain forms—_Bleheris, Diû Crône_. Perceval versions—_Gerbert, prose Perceval, Chrétien de Troyes, Perlesvaus, Manessier, Peredur, Parzival_. Galahad—Queste. Result, primary task healing of Fisher King and removal of curse of Waste Land. The two inter-dependent. Illness of King entails misfortune on Land. Enquiry into nature of King’s disability. _Sone de Nansai_. For elucidation of problem necessary to bear in mind close connection between Land and Ruler. Importance of Waste Land _motif_ for criticism.