The Incubus Siring Merlin in Arthurian Legend

Within the rich tapestry of Arthurian legend, the origins of the all-encompassing figure of Merlin, his birth paved by a mysterious and supernatural act, are as fascinating as they are enigmatic. The story of how Merlin came to be begins with a phenomenon often referred to as an incubus – a malevolent being that takes on a pleasing form to seduce unsuspecting individuals. This narrative delves into the various myths and legends surrounding the incubus that sire Merlin, highlighting the mystical and supernatural elements that shape his character.

The Role of the Incubus in Merlin’s Birth

In many versions of Arthurian myth and legend, the incubus that impregnated Merlin's mother is known by different names. Most commonly, it is referred to as Ambrosius, but in some accounts, it is called Merlinus. This malevolent entity often tricks a beautiful, unsuspecting virgin, like Aldan, the daughter of Conaan, the King of Dyfed in Wales, into an encounter that leads to pregnancy. The involvement of such a supernatural being underscores the mystical and otherworldly nature surrounding Merlin’s birth and his subsequent roles in Arthurian tales.

The Seduction of Merlin’s Mother

The seduction of a princess named Morgause or Morgana by the incubus is a recurring theme in Arthurian literature. According to these myths, the incubus appears to a royal virgin, ensnaring her with its charm and beauty, leading to her impregnation. This aspect of Merlin’s origin highlights the supernatural and mystical elements that are central to his character. The inclusion of elements like an incubus and a royal mother adds an air of legend and intrigue to Merlin’s birth, making him a figure of both awe and fear in the legends of King Arthur and his court.

The Supernatural Implications of Merlin’s Birth

In some medieval texts, Merlin's conception is attributed to Satan himself. The esteemed demon, with the desire to procreate with humanity but using otherworldly means, seeks to sire a half-demonic, half-human being to menace mankind. The incubus, taking on the guise of a handsome knight, succeeds in seducing a beautiful princess. However, the outcome of the seduction is not left to chance; Bleise, one of Merlin's teachers, witnesses and baptizes the newborn immediately, preventing him from being completely darkened by evil and instead preserving his inherent supernatural powers.

The story does not end there. Despite the demonic nature of the conception, the immediate baptism by Bleise ensures that the child does not fall into darkness. Instead, the newborn retains his supernatural abilities, which later manifest in the form of Merlin, the powerful and influential figure in Arthurian legends. This event raises intriguing questions about fate, free will, and the nature of good and evil, all of which are central themes in the complex narratives of the Arthurian legend.

Conclusion and Reflections

The myth of Merlin's conception by an incubus is a compelling testament to the rich and diverse world of Arthurian legend. The involvement of supernatural entities like incubi and the presence of a powerful and enigmatic figure like Merlin highlight the mystical and otherworldly elements that are intrinsic to these tales. The legends of Merlin continue to captivate readers and listeners, offering a fascinating exploration of the nature of creation, destiny, and the incursion of the supernatural into the human world.