The Importance of Arthurian Literature

In the last few weeks we have been studying Arthurian Literature in class.  I am not a huge fan of Arthurian Lit; however, I think it is important to study it today. King Arthur legends have influenced the Western World's literature ever since it was created thousands of years ago. It is important to study Arthurian Literature because it gives us a glimpse into the past and not necessarily historical events but events that inspired non-fiction stories. It demonstrates a society in medieval times and its obstacles. Today, Arthurian Legend can be seen in the form of poetry. Lord Alfred Tennyson created some of the most well-known pieces such as The Idylls of the King and 12 other narrative poems. Arthur can also be found in comic strips, spoofs, and motion picture. There are a ton of movies that have elements of Arthurian Legends. For example, Disney's animated adaption The Sword and the Stone, The Last Knight, and the slapstick comedy The Count of Monte Cristo. Artists are even influenced by Arthur. Dante Gabriel Rossetti painted a water color titled King Arthur's Tomb and Edward Burke-Jones created the Last Sleep of Arthur in Avalon. With all of the creations and inspirations Arthurian Legend produces it will last forever. It is important to study this type of story because it shows us a little bit of our past and provides us with future adaptations of the Legend. I think that Arthurian Legend will continue to be taught and examined and grow and influence and inspire.