Le Morte d'Arthur (eBook)

Sir Thomas Malory was an English writer, the author of 'Le Morte d'Arthur,' a seminal work in Arthurian literature. The text, completed circa 1470, is a compendium of Arthurian legends, including the adventures of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, the quest for the Holy Grail, and the love affair between Sir Lancelot and Queen Guinevere. Malory's work is one of the most complete and comprehensive treatments of the Arthurian legend in English and serves as a crucial link between the oral traditions of the Middle Ages and the literary epics of later centuries. Malory's personal history is somewhat obscure, with records suggesting he may have been a knight and taken prisoner during the wars of the roses. His writing style in 'Le Morte d'Arthur' is characterized by its narrative drive and its blending of chivalric ideals with a realistic portrayal of medieval life. The language of Malory's text, with its archaic and evocative tone, would have a lasting influence on the English literary tradition, impacting numerous authors, including Tennyson, White, and Steinbeck, who have since revisited the Arthurian legend. Today, his 'Le Morte d'Arthur' is still highly regarded for both its historical significance in the canon of English literature and its rich contribution to the enduring mythos of King Arthur.