The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights

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King Arthur is a legendary British leader who, according to Medieval histories and romances, defended Britain against Saxon invaders in the early sixth century. His story, primarily shaped by folklore and literary invention, remains a topic of debate among modern historians regarding his historical existence. Sparse historical references come from sources like the Annales Cambriae, the Historia Brittonum, and Gildas's writings, with early poetic mentions in Y Gododdin. The legendary figure gained international interest through Geoffrey of Monmouth's imaginative 12th-century Historia Regum Britanniae, though earlier Welsh and Breton tales depict Arthur as a great warrior or a magical figure linked to the Welsh Otherworld, Annwn. The extent to which Geoffrey adapted earlier sources remains unclear. While the themes and characters of the Arthurian legend vary widely, Geoffrey's account often serves as the foundation for later narratives, portraying Arthur as a king who defeated the Saxons and established an empire. Key elements like Uther Pendragon, Merlin, Excalibur, and Arthur's final battle at Camlann originated in Geoffrey's work. The genre of Arthurian romance, initiated by Chretien de Troyes, shifted focus from Arthur to other characters, such as the Knights of the Round Table. Arthurian literature flourished in the Middle Ages, experienced a decline, and saw a resurgence in the 19th century, continuing to thrive in various