Arthurian Revival

Definition

The Arthurian Revival refers to the renewed interest in the legends of King Arthur and his knights during the 19th century, particularly influenced by Romanticism. This movement emphasized themes of chivalry, adventure, and idealized heroism, leading to a resurgence of Arthurian literature and its adaptation into various artistic forms, including poetry, novels, and visual arts. The revival not only revitalized traditional tales but also inspired new interpretations that resonated with contemporary cultural values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Arthurian Revival emerged in the 19th century, coinciding with the Romantic movement's fascination with medieval themes and history.
2. Key figures in the revival included poets like Alfred Lord Tennyson and writers such as Sir Thomas Malory, whose works were reinterpreted to align with contemporary ideals.
3. This revival led to the creation of numerous adaptations of Arthurian tales in literature, art, and even music, promoting a vision of noble knights and idealized quests.
4. The influence of the Arthurian Revival extended beyond literature; it inspired visual artists like Edward Burne-Jones and pre-Raphaelite painters who depicted Arthurian themes.
5. The revival reinforced cultural notions of heroism and virtue, making King Arthur a symbol of national identity in Britain during the Victorian era.

Review Questions

• How did the Romantic movement influence the themes present in the Arthurian Revival?
  • The Romantic movement significantly influenced the themes of the Arthurian Revival by emphasizing emotion, nature, and individual heroism. Writers and poets drew on these ideals to reinterpret traditional Arthurian legends, framing them within a context that celebrated noble quests and chivalric values. This resulted in a revitalization of stories about King Arthur and his knights that resonated with contemporary audiences seeking adventure and idealism.
• What role did Alfred Lord Tennyson play in shaping modern perceptions of Arthurian legends during the revival?
  • Alfred Lord Tennyson played a pivotal role in shaping modern perceptions of Arthurian legends through his influential work 'Idylls of the King'. Tennyson's poems reimagined King Arthur as an emblem of chivalry and noble virtues while intertwining personal themes of love and loss. His portrayal made these legends more accessible to Victorian readers, contributing to their enduring popularity and influencing later adaptations in literature and art.
• Evaluate how the cultural values expressed during the Arthurian Revival reflect broader societal changes occurring in 19th-century Britain.
  • The cultural values expressed during the Arthurian Revival reflect broader societal changes occurring in 19th-century Britain by highlighting a yearning for idealized virtues amid rapid industrialization. The emphasis on chivalry, honor, and heroic quests served as a counterpoint to the emerging urban society's challenges and moral dilemmas. By romanticizing medieval ideals through literature and art, this revival provided both an escape from contemporary realities and a framework for addressing issues related to national identity and moral integrity during a time of significant change.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, often in reaction against the Industrial Revolution and Enlightenment rationalism.

Chivalry: A medieval knightly system with a moral, social, and religious code that emphasized bravery, honor, and respect for women, closely tied to the legends of King Arthur.

Tennyson: Alfred Lord Tennyson was a prominent Victorian poet whose works, such as 'Idylls of the King', played a crucial role in shaping the modern interpretation of Arthurian legends.