The Legend of King Arthur Medieval Literature

The Middle Ages Romantic Literature The Middle Ages is a period of European history from the 5th century to the 15th century. The period followed the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476, and preceded the Early Modern Era. It is the middle period in a three-period division of history: Classical, Medieval, and Modern. The term "Middle Ages" was coined in the 15th century and reflects the view that this period was a deviation from the path of classical learning, a path supposedly reconnected by Renaissance scholarship.

Could you be a Knight? 7 Qualities of a Knight

protection for the poor loyalty Back 7 Qualities of a Knight nobility courage fairness courtesy respect for women protection for the poor loyalty

Vocabulary Archetype Is a pattern in literature that is found in a variety of works from different cultures. An archetype can be a plot, a character and image, or a setting.   Legend An imaginative story handed down for generations and believed to have a historical basis, with retelling variations may occur. Like myths, legends may incorporate supernatural elements and magical deeds. Legends claim to be about real human beings. Squire Acted chiefly as a servant to his master while training for knighthood. They rode at their master’s side in battle and took charge of prisoners.

Vocabulary Joust A combat with lances between two knights on horseback.   Coat of Arms A shield with heraldic emblems used to identify battle groups/families. Camelot Legendary kingdom of King Arthur and his court.

Vocabulary Excalibur King Arthur’s sword Avalon   Avalon The place where Arthur is said to have been taken to be healed. Chivalry A code of brave and courteous conduct for knights in the Middle Ages. Knights were to be warriors and gentlemen. The code also includes courage, honesty, loyalty, generosity, and kindness.

Themes found in King Arthur Bravery Loyalty and devotion Virtue Chivalry and the heroic tradition Wars, jousts, and contests

Elements of medieval romance Idealized noble characters Exaggerated or larger-than-life behavior A hero’s journey or quest Supernatural or magical elements Unusual or exotic settings Incidents involving hidden or mistaken identity

Coat of Arms Create your own coat of arms using symbols from the language of heraldry worksheet

“The Crowning of King Arthur” Characters King Uther Pendragon Duke of Tintagil Lady Igraine Sir Ulfius Merlin the Prophet Sir Brastius Sir Jordanus Sir Ector Sir Kay Arthur

"The Crowning of Arthur" (pp. 1112-1117)

Evaluating Characters Chart Determine and record which of the traits apply to Uther and which apply to Arthur. How do these two men compare? Which character better illustrates the chivalric traits of a knight? Respond in a few sentences using examples from the story below the chart. Uther Arthur Courage Honesty Loyalty Generosity Kindness