Merlin Enthralled Historical Context

Merlin Enthralled Historical Context

Arthurian Legend

There is no accurate historical record clearly pointing to the "King Arthur" described in the legends of Camelot. Legends about a ruler named "Arthwyr" circulated around the British Isles beginning in the sixth century, but at that time there were dozens of kingdoms in what is now known as England, and, with no written records, it is difficult to verify any relationship between historical figures and the Arthur of legend. The matter is further complicated by the supernatural elements concerning sorcery that the legend has accumulated over the centuries, raising doubts about any claim of authenticity.

Of the various claims to a historically accurate King Arthur, the one that has had the most influence is that of Geoffrey of Monmouth (c. 1100-1154). At a time when little was known about English history, Geoffrey published a text in 1136 called History of the Kings of England, which traces the country's...
(read more)