"The Once And Future King"

I have always loved King Arthur. I love his character. I love his story. I love what he stands for. I recently finished The Once and Future King (and it's sequel, The Book of Merlyn) and it is probably my favorite book. Other than anything by Agatha Christie, of course, but that's another post.

In my opinion, The Once and Future King is something everyone should read. It is full of life lessons about people, characters and societies. It talks about how most people are good, and that people should use their talents and skills for good.

Of course, there is the well-known story of Arthur learning by being turned into animals by Merlyn, Guinnevere and Lancelot betraying the king and the knights of the round table searching for the Holy Grail. But, this book is so much more than that. There are morals and lessons in every chapter and you feel like you have learned something every time you read it. It delves deep into psychology, societies and law.

The Once and Future King, written by T.H. White is based on Le Morte d'Arthur, which is supposed to be one of the "truest" versions of the legend. White's book was written during World War II and there are a few times when you can really see the author's feelings about the war. It is said to be his view on what the perfect society would be like.

The Book of Merlyn is a much heavier read. It picks up right where the previous book left off: King Arthur is an old man, about to go into battle, he has been betrayed by everyone he loves, his kingdom and the good of the world is crumbling right before his eyes, and he is wondering if all he has worked for and dedicated his life to was worth it. He contemplates the nature of man and realizes that there is only so much he can do as a leader. This book is basically a long conversation between King Arthur and Merlyn and there are long passages about why people do what they do and why societies succeed or fail.

Anyway, I could go on and on about these books but the best way to appreciate them is to read them for yourself!

"The best thing for being sad is to learn something."

"Might does not make right! Right makes right!"

"We cannot build the future by avenging the past."

"The bravest people are the ones who don’t mind looking like cowards."

"Don't let it be forgot, that once there was a spot, for one brief shining moment, that was known as Camelot."