1. King Arthur: History and Legend

2. Legends
Stories that are based on historical fact – have element of supernatural.
Characters are always saints, kings, heroes.
Always associated with a specific time or place.
Hero represents cultural values of the time. Hero doesn’t always win in the end.
Ex: King Arthur, Robin Hood.

3. Who was King Arthur? Debate over whether he was a real person
So many versions – impossible to know the real Arthur
Some works considered historical and some literature (fiction)

4. Where Does History Point?
- King Arthur was a leader who defended land against invaders.
Geoffrey of Monmouth probably most reliable
Wrote Arthur as a Celtic chieftain fighting the Saxons.
History tells us that after the 5th century, the Celts were forced into Scotland by the Saxons.
However, other accounts place King Arthur in the 12th century.

5. Arthurian Legend Verifiable time/place + Romantic Themes
Elements of Supernatural or fairytales
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Arthurian Legend

6. 3 Classes of Medieval Society
Nobility
Clergy
Commoners

7. Chivalry – The Code Ideas associated with medieval knighthood Examples
Honor
Courtly love
Bravery
Loyalty to King

8. Class Distinction 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 Knight
If he can master the skills he is then knighted

9. Important Symbols – Holy Grail
The cup used by Jesus during the last supper.
In Arthurian legends, the hero must prove himself worthy to be in its presence

10. The Round Table
Given as part of Guinevere’s dowry & used by Arthur and his knights.
Each knight’s name was magically inscribed on the table.
Everybody was equal.

11. Excalibur and the Sword in the Stone
The Sword in the Stone is drawn by Arthur as proof of his birthright and of his nobility.
Excalibur – given to Arthur by the Lady of the Lake.

12. Characters: King Arthur
Son of Uther Pendragon + Igraine
Raised by Sir Ector
Drew the sword in the stone
Married to Guinevere

13. Sir Lancelot Greatest of King Arthur’s Knights One of the most trusted
In love with Guinevere (Arthur’s Queen)

14. Other Characters Uther Pendragon – Arthur’s biological father.
Igraine – Arthur’s biological mother
Sir Ector - Arthur’s adoptive father
Merlin – Arthur’s counselor, prophet, magician
Morgan le Fay – Arthur’s half sister; healer & shape-changer