King Arthur

King Arthur was a well known historical and mythical figure from the Middle Ages. Many people have heard stories of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, but there are still arguments concerning how much of King Arthur is real, and how much is just a legend.

Historically, King Arthur was the son of Uther Pendragon. Throughout his life he was a military leader and a High-King of Britain. The name Arthur is thought to have come from a Celtic originating name, artos viros, meaning “bear man.” He was a part of many Celtic stories, which could be why there are many myths and legends about King Arthur.

The Legendary King Arthur’s life is often described with the “sword in the stone” legend. It begins with Arthur’s father, Uther, dying. After Uther’s death, there was no king ruling all of England. So, a sword was placed in a stone, and word went out that whoever took the sword out would be king. Arthur was the one who successfully pulled the sword from the stone, so he rightfully became the King. It is also said that King Arthur’s last battle was on Salisbury Plain, where he was wounded and carried away. His grave was supposedly discovered at Glastonbury in the reign of Henry the II, during the time of 1154-1189. Some people believe that King Arthur never died, because he was actually a God.

Although there are still debates on whether King Arthur was a historical figure, or only a myth, one thing is certain. King Arthur was a figure who has influenced literature, art, music, and society since the Middle Ages.

http://www.kingarthursknights.com/arthur/legendary.asp
http://www.kingarthursknights.com/arthur/historical.asp
http://www.britannia.com/history/arthur/kaking.html
http://www.britannia.com/history/arthur/kamyth.html