Who pulled out Excalibur?

Who Pulled Out Excalibur?

The legendary sword Excalibur, wielded by King Arthur, is a symbol of power and authority in Arthurian legends. The question of who pulled out Excalibur has been debated among scholars and enthusiasts for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the historical and mythological accounts to uncover the answer.

Direct Answer

According to the most widely accepted account, Arthur Pendragon, also known as King Arthur, pulled out Excalibur from the stone to claim his right to the throne of Britain. This legendary event is said to have taken place after King Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father, died without an heir. Merlin, the wizard, instructed Sir Leodegrance’s son, Arthur, to remove the sword from the stone, which was inscribed with the words "Whoso pulleth out this sword of this stone and anvil, is rightwise king born of all England." Only a true king could remove the sword, and Arthur was able to do so with ease.

Mythological Accounts

The legend of Excalibur can be traced back to medieval literature, specifically the Historia Regum Britanniae written by Geoffrey of Monmouth in the 12th century. In this work, Excalibur is described as a magical sword given to Arthur by the Lady of the Lake. According to Monmouth, Excalibur was forged by the giant smith, Wayland, and was said to be so powerful that it could cut through any material, including steel.

Symbolism and Significance

Excalibur has been interpreted as a symbol of power, authority, and divine right. The sword is often seen as a reflection of Arthur’s connection to the divine and his legitimacy as king. The sword’s ability to be removed from the stone and anvil is also seen as a test of Arthur’s righteousness and worthiness.

Historical Accounts

While there is no definitive proof of the historical existence of Excalibur, there are several theories and legends surrounding the sword’s origins. One popular theory suggests that Excalibur was inspired by the sword of Gwalchmei, a Celtic hero who wielded a magical sword said to be able to cut through steel.

Recent Discoveries

In recent years, archaeologists have discovered several ancient swords in Europe and the Middle East that share similarities with Excalibur. One notable example is the Vrbas sword, discovered in the Vrbas River in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The sword is over 1,000 years old and features intricate inscriptions and decorations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the answer to the question "Who pulled out Excalibur?" is Arthur Pendragon, according to the most widely accepted account. However, there are many variations and interpretations of the legend, reflecting the complex and rich cultural heritage of Arthurian England. Whether seen as a symbol of power, authority, or divine right, Excalibur remains a fascinating and enduring figure in Western mythology.

Bibliography

• Geoffrey of Monmouth. Historia Regum Britanniae. (12th century)
• Sir Thomas Malory. Le Morte d’Arthur. (15th century)
• Roger of Wendover. Rocles Historia Anglicana. (13th century)
• The Tale of King Arthur and his Noble Knights. (13th century)

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