Geoffrey’s account blended history, folklore, and invention. It served political and cultural purposes:
- National Identity: The tales gave the Britons a noble past and heroic ancestor at a time when England was under Norman rule, helping foster a sense of unity and pride.
- Political Propaganda: Kings and nobles could trace their lineage or legitimacy back to Arthurian ideals of kingship, justice, and chivalry.
The myth was further embellished by medieval romances such as Chrétien de Troyes’ tales, introducing iconic characters like Lancelot and the Holy Grail, embedding Arthur deeper into medieval culture.
Arthur as a Medieval Media Creation
Considering the limited historical evidence and the flourishing literary tradition, King Arthur can be seen as a product of medieval "media"—stories crafted, adapted, and spread to serve social, political, and cultural purposes.
- Oral Tradition: Tales of heroic deeds were passed down orally, often changing with each retelling, much like early forms of "viral" stories.
- Written Texts: The rise of manuscripts allowed scribes and authors to codify and amplify the stories, reaching a wider audience.
- Courtly Culture: Arthurian tales fit well with the chivalric codes promoted by medieval courts, reinforcing social norms and ideals.
From this perspective, Arthur was less a historical figure and more a constructed symbol, a brand if you will, whose story was shaped to inspire and influence. shutdown123