* He is dead: The ballad opens with the corbies finding the knight's body, clearly indicating his demise.
* He was a noble figure: The corbies' dialogue reveals he was likely a respected warrior. They mention his "goodly armor" and his "harp," suggesting he was a skilled knight and perhaps a musician.
* He was possibly betrayed: One corbie mentions the knight's "false love" as a reason for his death. This suggests a romantic betrayal, potentially leading to his demise.
* He was not a lone wolf: His possessions (a sword and a hound) indicate he likely had at least a loyal companion. The hound's presence suggests a deep bond between them.
* His fate is tragic: The ballad emphasizes the inevitability of death and the futility of worldly possessions. The knight's demise, particularly if it stemmed from betrayal, paints a poignant picture of a life cut short.
It's important to remember that "The Two Corbies" is a traditional ballad and its focus is on the macabre and the inevitability of death. There is no clear-cut answer to the "why" of the knight's death, leaving room for interpretation and adding to the ballad's haunting impact.