The Once and Future King: An Introduction to Arthurian Legends, Chivalry, and Archetypes

What’s a legend? Imaginative tale believed to have some grain of truth, some historical basis Passed orally from generation to generation; may change over time Reveals the values and lifestyles of culture

Arthurian Legends Take place in Great Britain Fictional legends with many different versions of the life of King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round Table Sir Thomas Malory brought together first collection in the 1400s, called Le Morte d’Arthur Malory both compiled the legendary tales and from middle English and French and added new stories

The Real King Arthur Great debate over who he was Possibly a king, a prince, or a renowned soldier Existed 450-550 A.D. Known as a great general; led battle of Mount Badon, defeating the Saxons

Characteristics of Arthurian Legends Legends changed over time, incorporating new cultural values Legends vary in format, length, and genre (including poetry, novels, movies, and musicals) Writers from several nations and time periods helped create them (and the stories are still being recreated)

Motifs of Arthurian Legends The king and land are one Might for right, not might for might Justice Love, friendship, and betrayal Appearance vs. reality Redemption and forgiveness

3 Classes of Medieval Society Nobility Clergy Commoners

Page, Squire, Knight Age 7: Page Age 14: Squire Age 18-21: Knight Servant in a household Learns weaponry, courtesy, religion, etc. Age 14: Squire Personal aide to a knight Age 18-21: Knight If he can master the skills, he is then knighted

Knight Historically, knights were warriors and defenders Dressed in full armor Competed in tournaments and jousts to show their warrior skills In knighting ceremony, vows to “be valiant, courteous, and loyal”

Chivalry A Good Knight: Uses his strength for good Strives to be honorable and virtuous Protects the weak Is courteous Respects and defends women Is a defender of the Christian church Is inspired to greatness by love

Romantic Hero hero of medieval romance fulfills ideals of glory, nobility, justice, adventure, and loyalty