Rock, Catherine A. “Forsworn and Fordone: Arcite as Oath-Breaker in the ‘Knight's Tale.’” The Chaucer Review, vol. 40, no. 4, 2006, pp. 416–432. JSTOR, www.jstor.org.ezproxy.mnsu.edu/stable/25094334. Accessed 9 Sept. 2021.
Rock argues that, despite the similar appearance and noble status that Arcite and Palamon share, it is Arcite's unchivalrous actions that account for his success in the final battle, as well as his death at the end of Knight's Tale. Throughout the article, Rock documents major violations of chivalric behavior committed by Arcite, and reiterates that Arcite’s oath-breaking evolves over time to suit his individualistic desires. She explains that Arcite’s possessive behavior toward Emelye and dismissiveness of the oath sworn with Palamon violate the brotherly code previously upheld between the two knights. Additionally, Arcite’s false-swearing and manipulative behavior toward Palamon (regarding the validity and strength of his own love in comparison to Palamon’s) breaches the moral code of knighthood. Rock provides examples of other oaths broken by Arcite, stating that he also disregards Athenian law by reentering upon his release from prison, and his position in the social order by posing as a servant in Emelye’s home. After having severed his earthly allegiances, Arcite also disregards the power of his otherworldly resources. In failing to acknowledge Venus’s influence in winning Emelye, Arcite is absorbed in praying and attaining victory. Rock asserts that it is his narrow-mindedness that becomes his undoing; however, she concludes that Arcite’s dying words demonstrate an arguable return to his brotherly oath and attempt to reinstate the order that was disrupted.
-- Emily Tushar
