King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table (Puffin Classics)

“Then if I am indeed King […] I hereby pledge myself to the service of God and of my people, to the righting of wrongs, to the driving-out of evil, to the bringing of peace and plenty to my land.”

The young, unknowing Arthur pulls the sword from the anvil, which means he is the chosen King of Britain. Throughout the text, Arthur holds himself and his knights to the oaths in this quotation. Arthur’s unique dedication to peace, justice, and virtuousness are the key characteristics that make him a legendary king in British mythology.

“There was silence for a while when Merlin has finished speaking, for all those who heard him felt that they were at the beginning of a time of wonders, and that Arthur was more than just a King who ruled because his father had been King, or because he was the strongest man amongst them.”

The knights and lords of Britain are slow to accept Arthur as king because he is young and unknown. Merlin speaks a great prophecy about Arthur’s future and the magical blessings the boy received from Avalon, which changes their minds. The lords realize Arthur is different from other kings because of his divine and magical blessings that can unite the disparate kingdoms of Britain.

“‘Which like you better, the sword or the scabbard?’ asked Merlin.

‘I like the sword!’ cried Arthur.

‘Then you are the more unwise,’ said Merlin gravely.”

Arthur receives Excalibur and a magical scabbard from the Lady of Lake, which he uses to create the kingdom of Logres. Swords are a symbol both of being divinely chosen and of violence. In choosing the sword—war—over the scabbard—peace—Merlin sees that the young Arthur has much to learn about ruling with restraint before he can leave for his long sleep.