Book 1, Canto 12 Summary

Following his victory over the dragon, all is well and Red Cross and Una are engaged with the blessing of her parents. Then, a messenger arrives, claiming that Red Cross may not marry Una because he already pledged his hand to another—the evil Duessa when she was pretending to be Fidessa. Red Cross and Una quickly talk the knight out of this obligation, stating that affection and promises won under false pretenses are not valid or binding. In fact, she is so adamant about appearance equaling truth that she asks the messenger to reveal himself. Of course, it turns out to be that villain Archimago. The celebration continues, but the couple does not wed at once. Red Cross has more work to do, and he sets off to fulfill his destiny.

Book 1, Canto 12 Analysis

The appearance of Archimago and Red...