The Rest Is History 19. King Arthur
20 snips
Feb 1, 2021 The podcast delves into the enigmatic legend of King Arthur, questioning whether he is history or myth. Humorous analysis reveals Arthur's complex origins and the cultural significance of his story during turbulent times. Tintagel shines as a focal point for Arthurian claims, linking him to both Cornish and Breton heritage. The iconic sword Excalibur is explored, revealing its power symbol status and impact on modern narratives. Ultimately, the discussion reflects on Arthur's lasting influence and invites contemplation on what he represents today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Arthur's Mythical Origins
- Arthur is a mythical figure attached to a historical narrative.
- The narrative fits into the Dark Ages due to scarce sources and contradictory evidence.
Early Mention of Arthur
- A 9th-century poem mentions a warlord who "was not Arthur."
- This suggests Arthur was known, but could still be mythical like Heracles.
Gildas's Omission of Arthur
- Gildas, writing around 500 AD, omits Arthur from his narrative of post-Roman Britain.
- This suggests Arthur was unknown, unimportant, or disliked by Gildas.
