King Estorause

King Estorause is the tyrannical ruler of Sarras whose imprisonment of Galahad, Percivale, and Bors gives way to repentance and forgiveness at the end of his life. His death brings a sudden change in the city’s leadership: at a voice’s direction, its people choose Galahad as their king.

Identity and Rule

Estorause is introduced as king of Sarras and described as a tyrant descended from pagans. When Galahad, Percivale, and Bors arrive carrying the silver table associated with the Holy Grail, Estorause asks who they are and what they have brought. They tell him the truth about the Grail and the power God has placed there, but he responds by taking the three knights and imprisoning them in a deep hole.

Imprisonment and Repentance

The knights’ confinement does not leave them without sustenance: the Holy Grail is sent to them, and through its grace they remain continually provided for. At the end of a year, Estorause falls gravely ill and recognizes that he is about to die. He sends for the prisoners and asks their forgiveness for what he has done. They forgive him readily, and he dies soon afterward.

Death and Succession

Estorause’s death leaves the city dismayed and uncertain about who should rule. As its people deliberate, a voice instructs them to choose the youngest of the three knights, declaring that he will govern them and their people well. The citizens make Galahad king with the assent of all; the account notes that otherwise they would have slain him. Estorause’s passing thus marks the transfer of power from a ruler who had imprisoned the Grail knights to the knight chosen to lead the city.