Where Did Merlin Go After Arthur Died?
The legendary wizard Merlin has been a central figure in Arthurian mythology, serving as the trusted advisor and mentor to King Arthur. But what happened to Merlin after Arthur’s demise? This question has been debated by scholars and fans of the legend for centuries. In this article, we’ll explore the different theories and accounts of Merlin’s fate after Arthur’s death.
The Disappearance of Merlin
One of the most popular accounts of Merlin’s fate after Arthur’s death is his disappearance. According to legend, Merlin was so devastated by Arthur’s death that he vanished into thin air, never to be seen again. This theory is supported by the medieval legend of The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth, which states that Merlin disappeared into the earth after Arthur’s death.
The Forest of Broceliande
Another theory suggests that Merlin retreated to the Forest of Broceliande, a mythical forest in Brittany, France. This forest was believed to be the dwelling place of fairies and other magical creatures, and Merlin was said to have been drawn to its mystical energy. This theory is supported by the French poet Chrétien de Troyes, who wrote that Merlin was buried in the Forest of Broceliande after his death.
The Lake of Avalon
Yet another theory proposes that Merlin was taken to the Lake of Avalon, a mystical lake believed to be the final resting place of King Arthur and other heroes of the Arthurian legend. According to this theory, Merlin was transported to the lake on a boat, where he was received by the Lady of the Lake, who was said to have magical powers.
The Glastonbury Connection
Some scholars believe that Merlin was connected to the monastery of Glastonbury, located in Somerset, England. According to this theory, Merlin was said to have been buried at Glastonbury Abbey, which was believed to be the final resting place of King Arthur and his queen, Guinevere.
The Search for Merlin
Despite these different theories, the exact fate of Merlin after Arthur’s death remains a mystery. The search for Merlin has been a subject of fascination for centuries, with many scholars and enthusiasts attempting to uncover the truth about his disappearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fate of Merlin after Arthur’s death is a topic of much debate and speculation. While there are many theories and accounts of his disappearance, the truth remains elusive. Nonetheless, the legend of Merlin continues to captivate audiences around the world, inspiring works of literature, art, and film.
Appendix
- Bibliography
- Geoffrey of Monmouth. The History of the Kings of Britain. (1136)
- Chrétien de Troyes. Lancelot, the Knight of the Cart. (1181)
- Thomas Malory. Le Morte d’Arthur. (1485)
- Timeline
- 1136: Geoffrey of Monmouth publishes The History of the Kings of Britain, which describes Merlin’s disappearance after Arthur’s death.
- 1181: Chrétien de Troyes writes Lancelot, the Knight of the Cart, which mentions Merlin’s retreat to the Forest of Broceliande.
- 1485: Thomas Malory publishes Le Morte d’Arthur, which includes an account of Merlin’s disappearance into the earth.
Note: The article has been rewritten to meet the requirements, with new headings, subheadings, and bullet points. Significant content has been highlighted or bolded in important points.