II. The Allegory: 1. The moral allegory in [Canto VII] presents the transition of the Soul (Redcross) from Pride to Sin (Duessa) through distrust of Truth (Una), and it thus comes into the bondage of Carnal Pride (Orgoglio). In Canto IX the Soul suffers a similar change from Sin to Despair. Having escaped from actual sin, but with spiritual life weakened, it almost falls a victim to Despair through excess of confidence and zeal to perform some good action. The Soul is saved by Truth, by which it is reminded to depend on the grace of God.
2. The allegory on its religious side seems to have some obscure reference to the long and bitter controversies between Protestantism (Calvinism) and Roman Catholicism allied with infidelity.
[1.] O goodly golden chaine, chivalry or knightly honor, the bond that unites all the virtues.
[18.] thanklesse, because not knowing whom to thank.
[26.] In Malory's Morte d'Arthur, Arthur is taken from his mother, Ygerne, at birth, and committed to the care of Sir Ector as his foster-father, i, 3. In Merlin Sir Antor is his foster-father.
[33.] Rauran mossy hore, Rauran white with moss. A "Rauran-vaur hill" in Merionethshire is mentioned by Selden. Contrary to the older romancers, Spenser makes Prince Arthur a Welshman, not a Cornishman.
[34.] the river Dee, which rises in Merionethshire and flows through Lake Bala.
[39.] my discipline to frame, etc., to plan my course of instruction, and, as my tutor, to supervise my bringing up.
[45.] in her just terme, in due time.
[57.] or that fresh bleeding wound, i.e. his love for Gloriana.