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King Arthur - part 2

© Linda Casselman

Welcome back to our look at the legendary figure of Arthur, King of the Britons. Last time we explored the circumstances surrounding his fated birth as well as how he became king by pulling the famous sword from the stone. This time let's have a closer look at Arthur's reign, his love, and his tragic demise.

After young Arthur effortlessly pulled the fabulous sword from the stone in London revealing that was late king Uther Pendragon's true heir, many knights opposed him, not accepting him as their new king. Through the help of Merlin's powerful magic, however, Arthur defeated his challengers and brought peace to Britain.

Arthur's reign was mystical and full of magic. One day he raised his sword against one of his own knights without just cause and it shattered before him much to his surprise and amazement. As Arthur was thus left unarmed Merlin put the knight to sleep to protect him. With deep regret and in despair Arthur then wandered alongside a lake when he suddenly beheld a hand and arm lift out of the water holding a brilliant and dazzling new sword. This was the Lady of the Lake and the sword she held and handed over to Arthur was of course the most famous sword Excalibur. With his sure support Excalibur at his side, Arthur went on to be a great ruler.

Among Arthur's exploits, he defeated the Anglo-Saxons and helped King Leodegraunce of Scotland fight the Irish. King Leodegraunce showed his deep gratitude by giving his daughter, Guinevere, to Arthur in marriage. At first, Merlin, Arthur's trusted friend and advisor, objected to the pair's union, but he blessed the marriage anyway and even gave Arthur the Round Table as a wedding gift.

Eventually Arthur discovered that his wife, Queen Guinevere, and his best knight, Sir Lancelot, were lovers. Sir Lancelot fled to his stronghold in Brittany with Arthur in pursuit. Arthur had to give up his attack on Lancelot, however, as he received news that his nephew and enemy Modred had seized Camelot and forced Guinevere to marry him by telling her that Arthur had died in battle.

Returning to Camelot, Arthur summoned his army of knights to battle against Modred's forces. It was agreed that Arthur and Modred would meet on the field between both armies to discuss the possibility of peace, but as neither trusted the other they each ordered their army to attack if someone drew his sword. As fate would have it, one knight did indeed draw his sword, but to kill a snake. And so a terrible, vicious battle ensued - a battle that would mark the end of British chivalry.

The copyright of the article King Arthur - part 2 in Mythology is owned by Wayne Kreger. Permission to republish King Arthur - part 2 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.