Arthurian Post

There are many different aspects to a medieval romance. They all provide entertainment for people which is why the Arthurian legend has stood the test of time. The major aspects that audiences enjoy the most are action, love, and virtue. These are found in all Arthurian stories and is why these tales have endured all these years.

Action is likely the most popular feature of all these tales. People enjoy action such as sword fights with people and against creatures and exciting events such as jousting in tournaments and out in fields as a challenge. It provides excitement and brings you to the edge of your seat. The battle between good and evil always excites audiences. "Scoundrel! What sort of knight do you think you are, to attack defenseless women? said Sir Gawain. In answer the other knight drew his sword. Sit Launcelot did likewise, and they rushed together. With his first stroke Sir Launcelot split open the knights head, down to the throat." (T. Malory's Le Morte D' Arthur). This is action and excitement at its best.

Love is an aspect that occurs in all the Arthurian stories. Knights fight for the love of other women, affairs occur when knights and women are not loyal and some lie so as not to suffer the consequences of their wrong doings. King Arthur falls in love with Gwynevere, who is destined for Launcelot and he to her. Although Arthur is told of this, he continues to pursue her and marry her. Gwynevere ends of having an affair with Launcelot and cheats on Arthur. "Because Gwynevere is destined to love Sir Launcelot, and he her, and many disasters will result from their love." (T. Malory's Le Morte D' Arthur). Arthur is fore-warned about the dangers of marrying Gwynevere, but he ignores them.

Virtue is also and important theme in the Arthurian tales. Knights display chivalry in all these stories. They pledge their loyalty to their king and to the Round Table. Knights who are chivalrous are courteous to women, defend the kings honor and their own, and follow the code of Knights. "My pride broke it. My rage broke it! This excellent knight, who fought with fairness and grace, was meant to win. I used Excalibur to change that verdict. I've lost, for all time, the ancient sword of my fathers, who's powers were meant to unite all men. Not to serve the vanity of a single man. I am nothing." (John Boorman, Excalibur).

All of these aspects create the great stories that make the Arthurian Legend. These stories of withstood the test of time best of their great stories and lessons to be learned. They provide action, love, and virtue, which can entertain any audience.