This article explores the origins, development, and cultural significance of King Arthur and his knights, blending historical evidence with literary tradition, and examining how these stories shaped medieval identity and continue to resonate today.
Historical Context: Britain after the Roman Empire
The Fall of Roman Britain
In the early 5th century CE, the Roman Empire withdrew its legions from Britain, leaving the island vulnerable to invasions and internal strife. The native Britons faced incursions from Anglo-Saxons, Picts, and Scots, leading to a period of conflict and instability.
The Search for a Unifying Leader
During this turbulent time, it is believed that local warlords or chieftains emerged to defend their territories. Some historians speculate that a figure resembling Arthur may have been among these leaders, a Romano-British war chief who led resistance against Saxon invaders shutdown123