Concepts of Arthur

Ever since Geoffrey of Monmouth in the twelfth century there has been an effort to show that the Arthur of Celtic legend was based on an historical figure. In this re-examination of all the early literature Thomas Green argues that all such attempts involve special pleading. Thus, far from being an historical figure mythicized, Arthur emerges as a mythical and/or folkloric figure historicized. The evidence reveals that he was essentially the defender of Britain from all threats, with an intimate connection with the Underworld. Looking at the latest research into Celtic and Indo-European deities, the author concludes with the suggestion that Arthur may well have been a local deity, the product of a pre-Christian mythology. This is essential reading for anyone with an interest in Arthur.