Description: Arthur of the Britons
The story of King Arthur and his knights of the round table is very well known, but evidence of his actual existence is scarce. If Arthur did exist, he was more likely to have been a leader in battle, a commander rather than a crowned monarch. Arthur could be rooted in the realities of post Roman Britain, or he may just be a medieval myth. Whichever is true, his name and fame grew and developed over time. Arthur became a legend. Tales were told. Poems were written. Songs were sung. His supposed burial place at Glastonbury Abbey was an early medieval tourist attraction. Kings enhanced their claim to the throne and credibility by linking themselves, or their heritage, to the great Arthur. In more recent times the fabulous exploits of King Arthur, his Knights of the Round Table and the search for the Holy Grail have been retold in films, games and books. The real Arthur is far more elusive...the King that never was... but the King that never died.