Floating Chessboard
A magical chessboard sought by Gawain in the Dutch romance "Roman van Walewein". Hovering above its surface, the board tests knights with patience, skill, and cleverness.
Alternative Names
Drifting Chessboard
Introduction#
The Floating Chessboard is an enchanted artifact whose origins lie with the mysterious King Wonder, a sovereign whose magical treasures tested the courage, skill, and determination of knights. The board’s name reflects its ability to hover above a surface, giving the impression of drifting in midair, adding a supernatural aura to the challenge it represents.
The Quest for the Board#
In Roman van Walewein, King Wonder agrees to part with the Floating Chessboard only if Gawaine brings him the Sword with Two Rings, another legendary object. This condition sends Gawaine on a series of interlocking adventures, including duels, encounters with other enchanted objects, and acts of cunning and bravery. Each stage of the quest emphasizes the knightly virtues of persistence, cleverness, and courage.
Recovery and Return#
After successfully acquiring the Sword with Two Rings and completing all the required trials, Gawaine returns to Wonder’s court. The king honors the bargain, relinquishing the Floating Chessboard to Gawaine, who brings it back to Arthur’s court. Its presence among Arthur’s treasures highlights the interplay between magic and knighthood in medieval romance: heroic skill alone is not enough; cleverness, patience, and respect for the rules of enchantment are also required.
Significance#
The Floating Chessboard embodies the medieval fascination with magical games and the moral and intellectual tests they represent. Like other chessboard tales in Arthurian literature, it demonstrates that mastery of both strategy and virtue is necessary to succeed in quests of both earthly and supernatural significance.
Sources#
Roman van Walewein | Penninc and Pieter Vostaert, mid to late 13th century
