The Arthurian Legend, Will It Ever End?

For centuries people have been enchanted by the chivalry, the romances, the beauty, the heraldry, and the competition that is displayed in the Arthurian Legend. However, why has this legend endured over so many years? Is it the mystery? Can it be the merely utopian Camelot that has intrigued the minds of millions? Or has the Arthurian legend fully developed into a complete medieval romance? As we take a closer look at some Arthurian legend pieces these questions shall hopefully be answered.
"And all at once it seemed to be Spring, as his face shone, and that fair robe glistened with color, and Gawain walked, gracious, among waiting knights, and they thought, each of them, Christ had made no better man. Whatever his land, he seemed a matchless prince, meant to attack in the center of battle" (Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, 75, 865-74). This line from Sir Gawain and the Green Knight truly depicts all of the great characteristics of a medieval romance. This includes chivalry, knighthood, honor, fidelity, and beauty. The 1960's movie Camelot has also helped spread the Arthurian Legend with its lightheartedness, chivalry, and honor. Lancelot is depicted as a handsome, honorable, brilliant knight in shining armor. His destined love for Gwynevere and chivalric actions has made people over the centuries fall in love with him. The story has continued on through history because it is one that can be loved, one that can be remembered, and one that shall always easily be reiterated.
“Thomas, my idea of those knights was a sort of candle, like these ones here. I have carried it for many years with hand to shield it from the wind. It has flickered often. I am giving you the candle now-you won’t let it out? It will burn”(White, 637). King Arthur here is explaining to Thomas to continue on the legend of King Arthur and his knights. He wants Thomas to be safe away from the battle and to see everything that happens. Then, he shall go home grow into a man and continue to spread the word of what had happened. Literally, like how Arthur was figuratively speaking, the legend spread. The great epic battles and competition intrigued many, and the legend continued to broaden like a California wild fire. The stories have been retold and passed on from generation to generation because of this.
Critical love stories also have helped transmit the Arthurian legend. “Because Gwynevere is destined to love Sir Lancelot, and he her, and many disasters will result from their love. However, provide me with a royal escort and I will go to King Lodegreaunce and tell him that you are in love with Gwynevere and would like to marry her” (Malory, 57). The twisted and turned love stories within Arthurian Legend works have interested many people as well. These stories are essentially the first soap-operas! They have much drama and anticipation between man and woman, also displayed between Sir Gawain and the Lady of the castle! Temptation is a major key in the Arthurian pieces, and they have helped the legend endure many years.
In conclusion, the chivalry, romance and love, beauty, heraldry, and competition all combined together have played a major part in the continuation of the Arthurian Legend. This medieval romance intrigues everyone with its distinct characteristics and unparalleled plots. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Camelot, Sir Thomas Malory’s Le Morte D’Arthur, and T.H. White’s The Once and Future King all depict these characteristics. Millions have fallen in love with King Arthur, Camelot, and the knights of the Round Table, and millions will continue to adore this legend.