The story of King Arthur is one of the most popular legends in medieval history.
Learn more about the
death of King Arthur and about important themes and symbols involved in King Arthur's legacy, and test
your knowledge with a quiz.
The Death of King Arthur
King Arthur is known as one of the most popular legends of all time. There are a number of stories and
pieces of literature written about King Arthur's reign. The most popular and historical story about King
Arthur's death is a prose piece written by Thomas Malory entitled Le Morte D'Arthur. This work was first
published in 1485. Although King Arthur tried to maintain structure and order as a king, betrayal by the
people closest to him eventually led to his demise.
The Death of King Arthur
Arthur was born to King Uther and a woman named Igraine. His mother was married to another man.
Arthur grew up with his foster father Sir Ector in secret. A magician named Merlin suggested it would be
better if no one knew Arthur was the son of the King. Arthur served as squire for his foster brother and
eventually became king because he pulled a sword from a stone. While he was king, Arthur was
successful in defeating many enemies. King Arthur then decided to help others who needed assistance
along with his Knights of the roundtable.
Merlin, a wise magician, helped Arthur in battles throughout Arthur's life. One of Arthur's best knights,
Lancelot fell in love with King Arthur's wife Guinevere. Lancelot tried to resist his feelings for the queen
by going on several quests to find The Holy Grail. Lancelot was unable to resist his desire for Guinevere
and continued his affair with her; this eventually led to the downfall of Arthur's kingdom.
King Arthur wanted to punish his wife and his knight for their affair and planned to burn his wife at the
stake. Lancelot saved Guinevere from her death. One of Arthur's knights, his son Mordred, wanted to
become king and encouraged King Arthur to battle Lancelot. Mordred convinced everyone that King
Arthur died in battle and Mordred overtook the throne. When King Arthur discovered his son's betrayal,
he went home to reclaim his throne. While in battle with his son Mordred, King Arthur died and
Mordred was also fatally wounded. After his death, King Arthur's body was sent on a boat down the Isle
of Avalon, never to be seen again.
Themes in the Legend of King Arthur
There are a number of themes and symbols in the legend of King Arthur.
One theme of importance regarding the Death of King Arthur is trust. Trust is depicted in King Arthur's
relationship and friendship with Lancelot, his best knight and his marriage to Guinevere. Recall that
Lancelot eventually betrayed King Arthur by having an affair with King Arthur's wife. Merlin is also
shown as a trustworthy character because he established a trusted relationship with King Uther and
King Arthur. Merlin kept Arthur's true lineage a secret and helped King Arthur throughout his life.
