What picture does the prelude to Part Second give you? Contrast it with that of the prelude to Part First. Describe Sir Launfal's appearance on his return from his quest. What had he lost while on his search? What had he gained? Describe the second meeting with the leper. How much of this story was a dream? Explain why you think so. With what line does Lowell begin the account of Sir Launfal's vision? What effect did the dream or vision have upon Sir Launfal? What do you think is the great lesson of this poem? Of whom is Sir Launfal a type? What does the cold grim castle represent? Find lines in the prelude to Part First which show the first stirring of Sir Launfal's spiritual nature. What influences prompted this? Why did Lowell choose a leper to confront Sir Launfal? Words and Phrases for Discussion. "We Sinais climb and know it not" "Behold it is here--the Grail in my castle here is found" "With our faint hearts the mountain strives" "Then Heaven tries earth if it be in tune" "For a god goes with it" "Himself the Gate whereby men can Enter the temple of God in Man" "She entered with him in disguise" "He must be fenced with stronger mail" * * * * * YUSSOUF JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL A stranger came one night to Yussouf's tent, Saying, "Behold one outcast and in dread, Against whose life the bow of power is bent, Who flies, and hath not where to lay his head; I come to thee for shelter and for food, To Yussouf, called through all our tribes 'The Good.'" "This tent is mine," said Yussouf, "but no more Than it is God's; come in, and be at peace; Freely shalt thou partake of all my store As I of His who buildeth over these Our tents His glorious roof of night and day, And at whose door none ever yet heard 'Nay.'" So Yussouf entertained his guest that night, And, waking him ere day, said: "Here is gold; My swiftest horse is saddled for thy flight; Depart before the prying day grow bold." As one lamp lights another, nor grows less, So nobleness enkindleth nobleness. That inward light the stranger's face made grand, Which shines from all self-conquest; kneeling low, He bowed his forehead upon Yussouf's hand, Sobbing: "O, Sheik, I cannot leave thee so; I will repay thee; all this thou hast done Unto that Ibrahim who slew thy son!" "Take thrice the gold," said Yussouf, "for with thee Into the desert, never to return, My one black thought shall ride away from me; First-born, for whom by day and night I yearn, Balanced and just are all of God's decrees; Thou art avenged, my first-born, sleep in peace!" HELPS TO STUDY. Notes and Questions. Where do you think the scene of this poem was laid? Give the reason for your answer. What do you know of the habits of people who live in tents? What virtues would men living in this way most admire? Why? How do you think Yussouf had won his title of "The Good"?