This unit has focussed on considering the historicity
of Arthur as well as the historical contexts within which the image of
Arthur has been reconstructed. It has also viewed Arthur through the
lenses of myth, legend, romance and societal expectations.
Arthur in mosaic
Blog Question : Is this history and does it matter?
Of course it is history! Regardless of whether Arthur was a 'true' historical figure or not (and I'd like to think that he is), he quite clearly had a significant impact in his reconstructions on English identity and societal expectations throughout the past thousand or so years and it is this historical context which is undeniable history. It doesn't matter whether he was 'real' or not. Instead, it is the perception of him that matters.
I believe the role of the Arthurian legend has a legitimate place in historical studies, but the Arthurian legend itself is not history. I in no way consider Arthur a history in the same way Geoffrey of Monmouth did, despite my strong hopes that he did exist and was a fantastic hero. In studying the emergence and evolution of Arthurian literature today, I do not think his historical veracity matters, but what is really important is studying why and how significant this belief was for people living in the middle ages and the impacts it had in building and unifying a nation.
The Arthurian legend is just that, a myth or a story that, whilst incredible, I do not believe it to be history as there is no way to know definite fact from fantastical fiction. It is however important as the legend helps historians form ideas and opinions about the past and provides insights into a range of different societies with each retelling and reinvention of the legend.
While some of the more fantastical elements of the Arthurian myth cannot be considered history, there is every possibility that some of the events recorded did in fact happen. The Arthurian cycle is without doubt a collection of myths, but who's to say that they weren't loosely based on fact? And as to the existence of Arthur himself, well, that is entirely open to interpretation. I'm sure Carol will agree, and I have heard her say so on many occasions, we just don't know whether he really did exist or not. There is no conclusive evidence to suggest either way. Stories cultures tell themselves, such as the legend of Arthur, define a people, giving them a profound past, present, and future. We do not doubt that the Ancient Greek and Roman creation myths are fiction, yet these myths are held in the highest regard, for they not only explained and legitimized the origins of a most ancient society, they are now also inextricably linked to the central cultural and historical elements of that society today, and which will prevail for many years to come. The historicity of the myth matters very little, the importance the myth held in centuries past however, is undeniably significant. The Arthurian myth gave a distinguished past to a nation who's origins were disputed, it brought unity and hope in times of peril, and it gave adventure and mystery to audiences around the world. Fact or fiction, the Arthurian myth remains one of the greatest stories ever told, and it's very impact on society is what is important.
I’d like to second Bec’s post. It matters little whether Arthur, Camelot and the Knights of the Round Table really existed. Whether real or not, the legend has played a profound role in constructing British history, literature and art, as well as influencing the ideals of class, gender and the role of monarchies in a number of European societies (England and France in particular) in subsequent centuries. I cannot name one other individual who continues to evoke such influence to the psyche, art and literature when we cannot even be certain of his existence.
I also agree that even though the Arthurian legend have grown into a mythical story that appears to go beyond historical accuracy, it still plays a important role within history. When considering why the Arthurian legend was so popular within Britain helps to highlight the societal issues found within Britain. The Matter of Britain allowed Britain the opportunity to claim legitimacy to the land. Even studying the motives behind Arthurian authors further highlights how the Arthurian literature is part of history as it reveals why these authors needed to use the Arthurian legend to convey their underlining message. The popularity of the Arthur legend and its popularity still today shows that it does matter and provides vital historical insight into our pass society. Elouise Johnson.
Of course it is history! Regardless of whether Arthur was a 'true' historical figure or not (and I'd like to think that he is), he quite clearly had a significant impact in his reconstructions on English identity and societal expectations throughout the past thousand or so years and it is this historical context which is undeniable history. It doesn't matter whether he was 'real' or not. Instead, it is the perception of him that matters.
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting. It says I posted this on Oct 7th at 6.39pm but its currenty 12.40pm on Oct 8th... how perculiar.
DeleteI believe the role of the Arthurian legend has a legitimate place in historical studies, but the Arthurian legend itself is not history. I in no way consider Arthur a history in the same way Geoffrey of Monmouth did, despite my strong hopes that he did exist and was a fantastic hero. In studying the emergence and evolution of Arthurian literature today, I do not think his historical veracity matters, but what is really important is studying why and how significant this belief was for people living in the middle ages and the impacts it had in building and unifying a nation.
ReplyDeleteThe Arthurian legend is just that, a myth or a story that, whilst incredible, I do not believe it to be history as there is no way to know definite fact from fantastical fiction. It is however important as the legend helps historians form ideas and opinions about the past and provides insights into a range of different societies with each retelling and reinvention of the legend.
ReplyDelete-maddi
While some of the more fantastical elements of the Arthurian myth cannot be considered history, there is every possibility that some of the events recorded did in fact happen. The Arthurian cycle is without doubt a collection of myths, but who's to say that they weren't loosely based on fact? And as to the existence of Arthur himself, well, that is entirely open to interpretation. I'm sure Carol will agree, and I have heard her say so on many occasions, we just don't know whether he really did exist or not. There is no conclusive evidence to suggest either way. Stories cultures tell themselves, such as the legend of Arthur, define a people, giving them a profound past, present, and future. We do not doubt that the Ancient Greek and Roman creation myths are fiction, yet these myths are held in the highest regard, for they not only explained and legitimized the origins of a most ancient society, they are now also inextricably linked to the central cultural and historical elements of that society today, and which will prevail for many years to come. The historicity of the myth matters very little, the importance the myth held in centuries past however, is undeniably significant. The Arthurian myth gave a distinguished past to a nation who's origins were disputed, it brought unity and hope in times of peril, and it gave adventure and mystery to audiences around the world. Fact or fiction, the Arthurian myth remains one of the greatest stories ever told, and it's very impact on society is what is important.
ReplyDeleteI’d like to second Bec’s post. It matters little whether Arthur, Camelot and the Knights of the Round Table really existed. Whether real or not, the legend has played a profound role in constructing British history, literature and art, as well as influencing the ideals of class, gender and the role of monarchies in a number of European societies (England and France in particular) in subsequent centuries. I cannot name one other individual who continues to evoke such influence to the psyche, art and literature when we cannot even be certain of his existence.
ReplyDelete*like*
DeleteI also agree that even though the Arthurian legend have grown into a mythical story that appears to go beyond historical accuracy, it still plays a important role within history. When considering why the Arthurian legend was so popular within Britain helps to highlight the societal issues found within Britain. The Matter of Britain allowed Britain the opportunity to claim legitimacy to the land. Even studying the motives behind Arthurian authors further highlights how the Arthurian literature is part of history as it reveals why these authors needed to use the Arthurian legend to convey their underlining message. The popularity of the Arthur legend and its popularity still today shows that it does matter and provides vital historical insight into our pass society.
ReplyDeleteElouise Johnson.