Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
IV: Arthur explained
This chapter recounts the historical and legendary origins of King Arthur, including his rise to power by drawing the sword from the stone, his marriage to Guenevere, and his battles against rebel kings and Saxons.
What happens
This chapter recounts the historical and legendary origins of King Arthur, including his rise to power by drawing the sword from the stone, his marriage to Guenevere, and his battles against rebel kings and Saxons. It also describes the arrival of Gawain and his brothers to Arthur's court, their victory over enemy forces near London, and the traditional stories of Arthur's death and possible return.
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and the Quest
Arthur's rise from squire to king by drawing the sword from the stone, his military campaigns, and the arrival of Gawain and his brothers seeking knighthood exemplify heroic quests.
Fate and Free Will
Arthur's destiny as king is revealed through the miraculous sword in the stone, while Merlin's prophecies and enchantments guide events, blending fate with human action.
Love and Transformation
Arthur's marriage to Guenevere transforms his political standing and unites kingdoms, as seen in the betrothal and seven-day festival.
Characters to notice
- King Arthur
Central figure of the chapter; draws the sword from the stone, is crowned king, marries Guenevere, and leads battles against rebels and Saxons.
- Queen Guenever
Daughter of King Laodegan, betrothed and married to Arthur after Merlin's arrangement.
- Merlin
Arthur's chief adviser; arranges the marriage with Guenevere, uses enchantments to aid Arthur, and selects knights for the visit to Laodegan's court.
- Sir Gawain
Nephew of Arthur, leader of a band of young heroes; his strength varies with the time of day; defeats a giant chief named Choas and recovers a convoy near London.
- Sir Launcelot
Mentioned as one of the most famous knights who attempts to draw the sword from the stone but fails.
- Modred
Arthur's nephew whose revolt leads to the fatal battle of Camlan, where Modred is slain and Arthur mortally wounded.
- Sir Kay
Arthur's foster-brother; Arthur serves as his squire and retrieves the sword from the stone for him.
Key passages
“And could he find a woman in her womanhood As great as he was in his manhood— The twain together might change the world.”
If he could find a woman whose greatness matched his own, together they could transform the world.
Reflects the ideal of Arthur and Guenevere's union as a transformative force.
“Here lies buried the famous King Arthur, in the island Avalonia.”
The famous King Arthur is buried here in the island of Avalon.
Inscription from Arthur's tombstone, as recorded by Giraldus Cambrensis.