Why has the story of King Arthur endured for as long as it has? Why does the story appeal to such a wide variety of people? Would King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table be considered heroes today?
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King Arthur - GuruBlue, Friday, January 11, 2008 at 3:21pm
What an interesting question! When you have written what you think about this topic, we will be happy to give you further input.
King Arthur - Katie, Friday, January 11, 2008 at 7:30pm
Maybe the story of King Arthur has lasted so long because there are so many versions and it is hard to say whether King Arthur was real or not. I don't know what about the story appeals to a variety of people because I hate it. This is why I asked. Did the knights of the round table really do anything heroic? In my opinion they wouldn't be heroes today but I'm not sure. I'm not positive on any of the questions I have asked that's why I asked them. So why has the story of King Arthur lasted so long and why does it appeal to so many people? Would the knights be considered heroes today?
You may not like the story, but you need to approach it (for this assignment of yours) without that bias.
What is there about a story involving a strong, well loved king, his beautiful queen, and his gallant and brave knights that have entranced people over hundreds of years? The question is not asking if you like the story. It's asking why the whole idea has endured and has had appeal for a large number of people.
Here are some definitions and examples of heroes. Notice that the term hasn't been thrown around and applied to very many people/characters.
http://www.answers.com/topic/epic-hero-1
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And there are many others. Just go to www.google.com or www.answers.com and enter the word hero to see more.
Let us know what YOU THINK in response to these questions, and someone here will be happy to comment on your ideas.
Thanks for the websites on heroes. I think that the legend of King Arthur has lasted so long because people are fascinated with the story. It is hard to tell what of the legend is true or not and if King Arhtur really ever existed at all and I think people like to make their own conclusions of the story. Are any of my thoughts correct on why the legend has lasted so long and why it appeals to so many people? This essay is for my final exam so it is worth a good portion of my grade.
Yes, I think you're right. It's the magic of legend that helps fire up people's imaginations. I like your idea about people liking to make their own conclusions, too -- I think that's a powerful reason.
My opinion on why it appeals... These were some of the first tales of 'chivalry'...Heroes fighting to right wrongs. The society of that day had as many "evil doers" as we do today...and we are looking for heroes still today to "right those wrongs". We have always loved the stories of simple people who will go out and dare the impossible. We would like to be as "chivalrous" as they were. In addition these were supposedly real people, at least there is some basis in history.... and they brought the first footstep in polite society to barbarian England. We feel that they set the pattern for whom we were to become.
Is your name really Katie?
The story of King Arthur has endured for several reasons. Firstly, the legend of King Arthur includes elements that resonate with human nature such as chivalry, honor, and the pursuit of justice. These universal themes have a timeless appeal and continue to captivate audiences throughout the ages. Furthermore, the story of King Arthur embodies ideals of leadership and heroism, with Arthur serving as a noble and just king. This portrayal of a strong leader fighting against adversity and striving for a better world is something that continues to resonate with people, regardless of the time period.
One reason why the story of King Arthur appeals to a wide variety of people is its flexibility and adaptability. The legend has been told and retold in numerous versions, allowing different cultures and generations to reinterpret and personalize the story to suit their own values and beliefs. This allows individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives to find something relatable in the story, making it universally appealing.
Regarding whether King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table would be considered heroes today, this is a subjective question. The concept of heroism may vary depending on cultural and societal norms. However, the core values of chivalry and righteousness embodied by King Arthur and his knights are still relevant today. The idea of selflessly fighting for justice and the greater good is often admired, although the specific actions and methods may be interpreted differently in modern times. It is important to note that heroism can be subjective and might vary from person to person.
To gain a more in-depth understanding of the story of King Arthur and its enduring appeal, you can delve into various books, articles, and academic studies on the subject. Exploring different interpretations and analyses of the legend will provide you with a broader perspective and help you form your own opinion.