Arthur (ancient military leader)
Arthur, an ancient military leader, is widely associated with the defense of Britain during a time of turmoil as Roman influence waned. He is best known for his leadership against various groups, including the Irish, Picts, and Saxons, who threatened the stability of the region. Much of what is known about Arthur comes from the twelfth-century work of Geoffrey of Monmouth, whose accounts, although filled with imaginative elements, provide a narrative of Arthur's life that resonates with historical authenticity. Notably, Arthur is credited with a significant victory against the Saxons at Badon Hill around 493 CE, marking him as a pivotal figure in British history.
Despite his accomplishments, such as his campaigns against the Picts and Irish, Arthur ultimately could not prevent the Saxons from gaining control over Britain. His legendary status only grew after his death, which is said to have occurred around 514 CE during a battle with his nephew Mordred. His supposed burial place, Avalon, has become a part of the mythology surrounding him. The legacy of Arthur transcends his historical existence, inspiring numerous artistic interpretations and cultural works throughout the centuries. As a symbol of leadership and nobility, Arthur's story continues to captivate audiences, making him an enduring figure in both history and legend.
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Subject Terms
Arthur (ancient military leader)
Related civilizations: Britain, Anglo-Saxon
Major role/position: Military leader
Life
As Roman influence waned in Britain, Arthur assumed leadership of the Britons as they struggled against the Irish, the Picts, and the Saxons. Because of the lack of contemporary historians, most knowledge of Arthur comes from Geoffrey of Monmouth, whose twelfth century c.e.History of the Kings of England gives an extensive account of Arthur’s life and was based on older Welsh sources. Many of Geoffrey’s details are fanciful and untrustworthy, but the core of his story is believable (if largely unverifiable).
Arthur decisively defeated the Saxons at Badon Hill (near modern Bath) in his twelfth great battle in 493 c.e., then campaigned against the Picts and Irish. At Camlaan in 514 c.e., Arthur was mortally wounded in a battle with Mordred, his nephew, and withdrew to Aballava (“Avalon”) near Hadrian’s Wall, to die. In 1190 c.e., monks in Glastonbury opened a tomb that supposedly contained the remains of Arthur and his second wife.
Influence
Arthur failed to prevent the Saxons from overrunning Britain, but his life became a powerful legend that inspired countless works of art, including poems, plays, operas, and novels.
Bibliography
Alcock, Leslie. Arthur’s Britain. Baltimore: Penguin, 1982.
Holmes, Michael. King Arthur: A Military History. New York: Barnes & Noble, 1998.
Thorpe, Lewis, trans. Geoffrey of Monmouth: History of the Kings of England. Baltimore: Penguin, 1966.
Turner, P. F. J. The Real King Arthur. Anchorage, Alaska: SKS, 1993.