The Legend of King Arthur: A Historical Perspective and Literary Evolution

The enigmatic figure of King Arthur has captivated the imaginations of people for centuries. Despite contradicting historical evidence, the legend of King Arthur remains deeply ingrained in British culture and literature. This article explores how Arthur became a legendary figure and traces the literary evolution of his narrative from its origins to its place in English literature.

Origins of the Legend

Most scholars agree that the historical King Arthur was likely a tribal warlord rather than the legendary king often depicted in literature. According to Geoffrey of Monmouth, who wrote in the 12th century, Arthur has roots in Welsh and Breton lore. Geoffrey's account, however, is considered highly fictional, mainly due to its lack of historical verifiability.

Geoffrey’s narrative underwent significant transformation through the centuries. Monastic scholars such as the Cistercians further developed and grounded the story in the realm of plausible historical events. Subsequently, the stories gained a permanent place in English literature when rewritten and published by William Caxton and Sir Thomas Malory in the 15th century, with Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur bringing Arthur’s tale to a much wider audience.

Purpose and Patronage

The English royal court had an ulterior motive in promoting the King Arthur legends: to overshadow the accomplishments of the Anglo-Saxon kings who preceded William the Conqueror. In the 15th century, Sir Layamon misrepresented the Saxons as a military aristocracy, which conveniently downplayed their true significance. This myth served the interests of the English nobles who derived their titles from William and his followers, compelling them to promote the Arthurian legend for centuries.

Literary Milestones and Evolution

The story of King Arthur took a turning point with the work of Sir Thomas Malory in the 15th century. Malory compiled various stories about the “Once and future King” into a collection called Le Morte d'Arthur. This prose work brought the tales to a broader public and ensured that Arthur’s legacy would not be confined to the halls of academia.

In Le Morte d'Arthur, Arthur’s feats include pulling the sword Excalibur from a stone, using it to defeat his enemies, and striving to bring peace to a land divided by numerous kings. Encouraged by his knights to rule over them all, Arthur sits at the Round Table, symbolizing equality among his knights. His marriages, especially his troubled relationship with the noble French knight Lancelot, add a layer of complexity to his legend.

Impact on Culture and Literature

The enduring popularity of King Arthur can be attributed to several factors. First, the Arthurian legends address themes that resonate widely, such as chivalry, loyalty, and the mythologized past. Secondly, the Arthurian tales have influenced countless works of literature, from prose to poetry, epic to romance. Additionally, the legend has inspired various art forms, including painting, music, and theater.

Despite the lack of historical evidence, King Arthur continues to captivate readers and viewers alike. His story serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature and the human imagination to shape our understanding of history and ourselves.