There are several different versions of how the legend goes. However, the common telling is of a young man who obtains a magical sword and with the support of the Knights of the Round Table, rules successfully. There is also always the account of Lancelot who betrays Arthur by having an affair with his wife Guinevere. In most stories, Arthur eternally rests in Avalon after being fatally wounded by Modred.
Often the details that change from story to story are the relationships. An individual may have a different name or relation to Arthur when compared with other accounts. Arthur’s own foster parent(s) are also different at times. Other changes are the order in which events happen, if they happen at all. In some versions, components are left out altogether.
My favorite version is the one written by Marion Zimmer Bradley called the Mists of Avalon. It is a more modern rendition of the Arthurian legend and takes the point of view of Arthur’s half sister Morgan le Fay, or Morgaine in the book. I suppose it could be the imagery that attracts me, or the fact that it’s from a woman’s point of view, but generally I like how each of the characters are portrayed. The personalities just seem more human and probable than in other stories where the personalities are exaggerated. Of course, there are other reasons I like this version above others.
The story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is such a widespread legend that there are similar tales within other cultures as well. Even within the Celtic culture, there are multiple names for some of the characters. New ideas about the legendary King Arthur continue to appear even in modern culture. Multiple movies have been made on the subject and I cannot image the telling of the tale would end anytime soon.
You can read more about the Legend of King Arthur here.
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