Here are some interesting facts about King Arthur.
- King Arthur is a legendary 5th century British king, who defeated the invading Saxons. He probably wasn’t real, although he may have been based on a real person.
- During the 6th century, a heroic warrior named Arthur appeared in a book of poems by Aneirin. The 12th century writer Geoffrey of Monmouth also wrote about Arthur’s life.
- King Arthur was supposedly born in Tintagel Castle, in Cornwall. In 1998, the The Artognou stone was found there, containing Greek and Latin writing, and is seen by some as proof of King Arthur’s existence.
- He is famous for his heroic knights, known as the Knights of the Round Table. Because the table giant was round, everybody was equal, and nobody was at the table’s head.
- Arthur’s knights included: Galahad, Gawain, Lancelot, Percival and Bedivere.
- Arthur’s legendary sword was called Excalibur.
- Merlin is the most famous wizard in mythology, and was said to be King Arthur’s advisor. He first appeared in a 12th century book and is thought to be buried in Brittany, France.
- Many believe that King Arthur is buried in Glastonbury Abbey, in Somerset. In the 12th century, monks at the abbey supposedly found Arthur’s grave, although it has not been seen since.
- Arthur also searched for the Holy Grail, the cup of Christ. The cup is said to be buried at the foot of a nearby hill, Glastonbury Tor, having been brought back from the Holy Land.
- King Arthur has been portrayed in dozens of films and TV programmes. He has been played by Richard Harris and Clive Owen, and spoofed by the Monty Python team.
- He has also been used in modern times as a role model. Charitable groups such as the Knights of King Arthur were once popular in the United States.
- King Arthur is one of the Nine Worthies, a group of respected historical and mythical figures. Other Worthies include Alexander the Great, King Charlemagne and David, slayer of Goliath.
