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Arthurian Studies

Introduction: Arthurian Legend

Arthurian legend, the body of stories and medieval romances, known as the matter of Britain, centering on the legendary king Arthur. Medieval writers, especially the French, variously treated stories of Arthur's birth, the adventures of his knights, and the adulterous love between his knight Sir Lancelot and his queen, Guinevere. This last situation and the quest for the Holy Grail (the vessel used by Christ at the Last Supper and given to Joseph of Arimathea) brought about the dissolution of the knightly fellowship, the death of Arthur, and the destruction of his kingdom.  

Books

To search the library books and articles about Arthurian legend, start at the library home page or use the Discovery search box. Click on Books above the text box, then try searching keywords such as "King Arthur" or any of the following:

  • Arthurian romances
  • Arthurian legend
  • Grail romances
  • Chivalry in literature
  • Merlin
  • Middle English 1100-1500
  • Sir Thomas Malory
  • Knights and knighthood

Discovery Search

Helpful Links

  • Britannia, King Arthur - General information related to King Arthur including timelines.
  • Camelot Project - This database offers basic information about Arthurian texts, as well as images and bibliographies. 
  • Internet Medieval Sourcebook - This website will help you understand the Medieval setting in Great Britain. 
  • Luminarium: Sir Thomas Malory - A portal to biographical information on Sir Thomas Malory, the text to his work, Morte d'Arthur, and some links to other webpages.