Lesson 2: Arthurian Fantasy
This lesson is about the sub-category of Arthurian Fantasy. It covers the legend, characters and books in the sub-category.
Introduction
This lesson covers the Fantasy sub-category of Arthurian Fantasy. It will explore the historical and literary background of King Arthur, the characters of the legend, the basic legend and books by Fantasy authors using the elements of the legend in their works.
Objectives:
You can prepare a little for this lesson by checking out the Legends web site at http://www.legends.dm.net and checking out some of the links to the King Arthur legend.
Arthurian Fantasy is the second most popular sub-category in the fantasy genre. The books are retellings of the legend, use characters from it, or use its themes. Many authors try new ways to present the legend in a new light.
Several nations have epic heroes and kings in their pasts. Spain has El Cid. Germany has Tannhauser. For France, there is Charlemagne and his champion Roland. Britain’s great hero is King Arthur. His legend is a timeless story of honor, chivalry, passion, courtesy, and courtly love. The legend has inspired writers throughout history. Several Fantasy authors today will try to write an Arthurian Fantasy. Some succeed very well.
The themes of Arthurian Fantasy give the story a deep meaning. The rule of law and peace over war is a central idea. A knight’s honor and courage is another. Perhaps the most powerful theme is that of love, which leads to betrayal, then eventual forgiveness. All of these themes are bound into Arthurian Fantasy and draw readers back time and again.
The next section will cover King Arthur’s historical and literary background.
