It is amazing to think, even by today’s standards, how much the Arthurian legend has changed over the course of history. First, Geoffrey of Monmouth’s piece, largely “is devoted to the birth and reign of King Arthur” (118). This is an interest statement to take into account, as Geoffrey often described Arthur as a tyrant. Even looking at Wace, this attitude is changed and begins to reflect on the strength and power – as well as the love of his subjects – of the King: “God wants to exalt you: don’t hold back and lose any time! Make yourself master of the empire, which is ready to surrender to you of its own will” (124). Lastly, Layamon takes a different turn of the legends in his text, which expands upon Wace’s text – the fall of Arthur. This is a feature of the Arthurian legends that is expanded upon and changed even today, whether it be through film, literary text, or some other medium: Arthur’s defeat by his nephew Mordred and the betrayal of Guinevere. It is through texts – and continuous changes – such as these that the Arthurian legends have been perceived as some of the greatest in history.
I am telling you the truth, dear king, for I am merely your underling:
Mordred has done these things: he has adopted your queen,
And has placed in his own hands your lovely land
He is king and she is queen… (126)
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