How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)
Quote #10
'Even now, king, there is more to tell. Look me straight in the face: do I not look like Tantris? I have leaped and thrown reeds and balanced sharpened twigs, I have lived on roots in a wood and I have held a queen in my arms.' (18.155)
Ironically, Tristan is only able to tell the truth to his uncle when he is in disguise. Tristan obviously feels enormously liberated by his disguise, going on for pages about his relationship with Yseut. It must be a relief for him to finally be able to admit the truth to the person it most concerns.
Quote #11
'She shall see now the proof that I am telling the truth: when we parted sorrowfully from each other she kissed me and gave me this little gold ring. I have always carried it with me. Many a time I have spoken to it, hoping to be consoled; and when there was no reply I felt I should die of grief. For love I would kiss the emerald, and my eyes would be wet with hot tears.'
Yseut recognized the ring and saw how the dog was nearly mad with joy. Then she knew in her heart that she was speaking to Tristan.
Tristan has repeated all the events of his and Yseut's life together to try to get Yseut to recognize him, but it's only now, when he produces the ring she gave him, that Yseut finally believes him. Her recognition of Tristan depends upon his proof of his devotion to her, which is what he is really revealing when he produces the ring and describes his response to it. Tristan's identity is defined by his feelings for Yseut.