Mythology2008

Mythology Final Exam

2008-12-04T00:24:00.004-05:00

The final exam is due on Thursday, 12/11 by noon. There will be a box outside my office door (Crawford 625) if I am not there. There is no penalty for turning in the paper early and if you have any questions, please contact me by email. If you do turn in the exam early, please leave it in my mailbox opposite the elevator doors.

You must answer both questions. No late exams will be accepted. Exams should be typed (single-spaced is fine) and the answer length should take into account that this is a take home exam. Please read each question carefully before you answer. You may use your notes and the assigned readings (which you should consult to flesh out any weak answers) to assist you with preparing for your own answers, but do not copy or plagiarize any material. If you do so, it will result in the automatic failure of the test. Good Luck!

1) Chivalry, Knightly Tradition and Christianity
Using the mythological tales of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, provide examples of heroes in these tales that fit into the medieval Judeo-Christian ideals of knightly behavior. What are the duties and ideals of good Christian knights; i.e. define chivalry? Do the heroes of these tales good role models of these Christian knights? Why or why not? What pagan elements are still left in these tales, if any? Explain and support your answer with examples from the various Arthurian myths.

2) A Strangely Norse Conundrum
In the Norse myths, there is a difficult and often tenuous connection between giants and the Norse gods. Though largely portrayed as an antagonistic relationship, especially with the final battle at Ragnarok, there are several examples within the myths that seem to counter the general belief that the gods and giants hate each other. Using the mythological tales from the readings as well as those explored in class, explain more fully the complex relationship between the gods and giants. Why is there such a conflict in the first place? Explain and support your answer with several examples from the Norse myths.

Next Assignment: SHIELDS!

2008-11-03T10:25:00.002-05:00

This assignment is not due until Friday, November 21st.

This next assignment is something new, and does not necessarily require a blog posting. However, it does involve that you develop your childhood talents of fun with scissors, paste and colored paper. It is a chance to show your more physically creative side and I want you to create a finished design that is done well. This time, you are going to be graded not only on the content, but on the care and effort put into it. It will cost a few dollars to make, probably not more than $10-20 at most. Admittedly people in the past have spent a lot more than that in time and effort, but decent jobs can be done for the suggested amount.

I want you to make a shield with the heraldry of your character upon it. The heraldry can be complex or it may be simple, but there is heraldry for all the characters we have chosen, even the female ones. I want you to make a shield, a kite shield out of cardboard/posterboard as the base (find the dimensions of an actual kite shield online) and then decorate the front with colored paper or poster paint or whatever, using the actual heraldry from Arthurian myth. Make sure you use only the colors that would have been available at the time. This project should not cost a lot of money, but will probably involve a trip to Walmart, Office Depot or a craft store for the supplies. All three usually stock colored paper and posterboard.

The shields should be the actual dimensions of either a kite shield or a heater shield. Either will be acceptable. Samples of previous shields are in the Humanities department hallway ranging from very good to okay. The designs range from simple shields of cardboard and drawings, to more intricate shields wooden shields (and last year a shield made completely of steel and the heraldry design was in raised brass).

These shields will be used at the end of class for the final project.

If you have any questions, please forward them on to me.

Merlin

2008-11-03T10:13:00.006-05:00

Merlin with Vivien

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.grahamphillips.net/Merlin/merlin2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.grahamphillips.net/Merlin/merlin2.htm&h=375&w=700&sz=117&hl=en&start=4&um=1&usg=__8lUaU2uDNLrBshOGCgz_E3Ehjw0=&tbnid=GJPF_VoclzwRTM:&tbnh=75&tbnw=140&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmerlin%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN

Merlin with an unnamed giant, building Stonehenge.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:BLEgerton3028Fol30rStonehengeCropped.jpg

Merlin's Cave at Tintagel

http://www.legendofkingarthur.co.uk/cornwall/merlins-cave-tintagel.htm

Sir Gawain

2008-10-31T14:47:00.004-04:00

Lady of the Lake

http://www.artsforge.com/gallery_new/legends/lady_of_the_lake.jpg

Sir Bedivere

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31BQ6HYSV4L._SL500_AA280_.jpg

Birthplace of Sir Gawain

http://www.travelpublishing.co.uk/images/Intro%20Images/wal_32_0.JPG

Sir Galahad

2008-10-31T07:45:00.005-04:00

Sir Gareth

http://www2.pittstate.edu/engl/nichols/hughesgareth.jpg

Guinevere

http://news.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40373000/jpg/_40373689_guinevere_final_post.jpg

I was born in Carbonek, but ended up growing up in a convent.

http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/upload/img_400/sw_dartmouth_02.jpg

Sir Cador

2008-10-31T00:21:00.002-04:00

Elaine of Astolat: http://www.nashfordpublishing.co.uk/portraits/scenes/elaine_of_astolat_shield.jpg

Sir Kay: http://csis.pace.edu/grendel/projs993a/arthurian/images/kay.jpg

My birth place, Cornwall: http://photos.igougo.com/images/p107474-Cornwall-St_Michaels_Mount.jpg

Sir Maleagant

2008-10-30T23:24:00.005-04:00

Sir Maleagant was born in Gore, where his father, King Bagdemagus, ruled.

Sir Maleagant and Mordred argueing.

Isolde

http://image62.webshots.com/462/5/59/32/2990559320040455413AouTqS_ph.jpg
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/12753/12753-h/images/figure08.jpg
http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd242/wolfluvar13/inspiration/Isolde.jpg

Sir Caradoc

2008-10-30T21:18:00.006-04:00

Birthplace: Château des ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes of Brittany), Nantes, France

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:ChateauNantesEntrance1900.jpg

Sir Tristram

http://www.earlybritishkingdoms.com/bios/tristram.html

Guinevere

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/dayart/20040707/guinevere_bow.jpg

Sir Gaheris

2008-10-30T20:47:00.010-04:00

Orkey, birthplace of Sir Gaheris

http://www.judithglue.com/hampers/morehamperslinkpage.htm

Sir Percival

http://undoomed.wetpaint.com/page/Sir+Percivale?t=anon

Isolde

http://www.rovada.com/Gallery/interlacing/pages/isolde.htm

Sir Lancelot

2008-10-30T14:13:00.008-04:00

(http://www.erieharbor.com/Comper.html)
Birthplace of Sir Lancelot

(http://www.galleryofart.us/albums/Joseph_Noel_Paton/How an Angel rowed Sir Galahad across the Dern Mere.jpg)
Sir Galahad

(http://republika.pl/blog_fg_3791479/4820160/tr/morgan_le_fay_by_tattereddreams_1_.jpg)
Morgan Le Fay

Nimue

2008-10-28T23:47:00.003-04:00

No mortal knows my true birthplace, but I reside in such mirrored lakes as this in the Broceliande forest.

http://www.francemonthly.com/n/0106/image6.html

Sir Pelleas and Nimue.

http://www.ramsdale.org/excali.jpg

Elaine the Fair

http://www.timelessmyths.com/arthurian/gallery/grailmaiden.jpg
The Grail Maiden (Elaine)
Dante Gabriel Rossetti
Oil on canvas, 1874
Fine Art Photographic Library

Sir Agravain

2008-10-26T21:32:00.002-04:00

I was born on the islands of Orkney to its King Lot and his queen Morgause.

Sir Mordred is my brother, my closest companion, and my co-conspirator in the unveiling of Lancelot's sin.

Morgause is my mother and a traitor to our family. Her shameless actions after the murder of my father was unforgivable.

Sir Bedivere

2008-10-26T09:12:00.002-04:00

Glywysing, Sir Bedivere's birthplace:
(http://www.johncookson.info/images/2008%20HKNZ%20Low%20Res/DSCF0865.JPG)

Sir Tristam: (http://fc50.deviantart.com/fs10/i/2006/154/8/4/Sir_Tristram_of_Lyonese_by_takahan.jpg)

Isolde the Fair:
(http://fc27.deviantart.com/fs25/i/2008/044/a/f/Tristan_and_Iseult_by_Lindowyn.jpg)

Sir Bors

2008-10-25T22:18:00.004-04:00

Vannes of Brittany, which was known as Gannes in stories about Sir Bors. (http://lh5.ggpht.com/_kPQvroirbEs/Rz11YvQ1TMI/AAAAAAAAAvA/asfED2TZ-9Q/IMG_2159.JPG)

The brother of Sir Bors, Lionel, is in the background. Flames are between Sir Bors and Lionel, saving Sir Bor's life. ( http://www.sacred-texts.com/neu/trt/img/089.jpg)

The maiden to the right is the maiden that Sir Bors saves instead of his brother Sir Lionel, who is on the horse to the left. (http://www.timelessmyths.com/arthurian/gallery/bors.jpg)

Morgan Le Fay

2008-10-25T21:21:00.009-04:00

Tintagel, my birhtplace and the home of my Father until he was sent to his death by the evil King Uther.

http://www.shcsc.k12.in.us/arthur/tintagel.htm

King Uryens of Gore, my husband, how I loathe him.
http://www.aveleyman.com/ActorCredit.aspx?ActorID=2316

The Lady Elaine, I bewitched Lancelot to love her to crush Guenivere.

http://ebooks.adelaide.edu.au/t/tennyson/alfred/idylls/

rhead/rheadel.jpg

Guinevere

2008-10-24T17:24:00.006-04:00

The lady of the lake, Nimue.

Merlin, my husband's mentor.
I was born upon this hilltop in Oswestry, Shropshire UK. (England)
http://www.northshropshire.co.uk/
http://images.elfwood.com/art/l/o/loneanimator/old_merlin.jpg
http://faculty.css.edu/

Sir Gareth

2008-10-24T16:53:00.006-04:00

I was born in Orkney

http://www.orkneyonvideo.co.uk/

My Oldest Brother Sir Gawain

http://csis.pace.edu/grendel/Proj2004A1/bwovsgawain.html

My Dearest Mother, Morgause. Queen of Orkney.

http://www.twoevilmonks.org/mistsavn/mistsgal1.htm

Morgause...

2008-10-23T23:16:00.009-04:00

I come from Orkneys located north of Scotland.

http://image.pathfinder.com/time/europe/wonder/images/500_hoy.jpg

Sir Bors the favourite cousin of Sir Launcelot
http://www.pewterkingdom.com/Roundtable/BohorsPewter.jpg

Nimue the Lady of the Lake
http://baby-blu-blond23.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/nimue.jpg.w300h441.jpg

Isolde the Fair

2008-10-22T22:44:00.012-04:00

Isolde's birthplace

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/29/64826208_e5cb28e0aa.jpg?v=0

I was born in the lush green countryside of Ireland.

http://lizschultz.com/KA18.html

Morgause

http://www.timelessmyths.com/arthurian/gallery/merlin.jpg

Merlin

Elaine of Astolat

2008-10-22T18:57:00.005-04:00

www.197aerial.co.uk/dumbarton_castle.htm

My birthplace is Astolat. The city of Dumbarton is believed to be the ancient city of Astolat. This is the castle of Dumbarton. faculty.smu.edu/arthuriana/gazetteer.htm

www.animatedheroes.com/arthur.html
Merlin

http://excaliburworld.com
The Lady of the Lake

Sir Mordred

2008-10-21T20:02:00.005-04:00

My birth place

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b9/Wooden_boat_wrecked.jpg&imgrefurl=http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Wooden_boat_wrecked.jpg&h=1944&w=2592&sz=1260&hl=en&start=5&um=1&usg=__2QJqN891UQKKApEys8aqmz78Lrk=&tbnid=2fUwhEdoz-Fg-M:&tbnh=113&tbnw=150&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dwooden%2Bboat%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DG

Silly Arthur King
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://upload.moldova.org/movie/movies/m/monty_python_and_the_holy_grail/thumbnails/tn2_monty_python_and_the_holy_grail_3.jpg&imgrefurl=http://movie.moldova.org/movie/rom/887/4/&h=319&w=480&sz=34&hl=en&start=39&um=1&usg=__1ZGBjDXubMnFgTkLSH4No7ZrkrI=&tbnid=EVFlcjIM_B27MM:&tbnh=86&tbnw=129&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmonty%2Bpython%2Blancelot%26start%3D20%26ndsp%3D20%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN
Morgan la Fey
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/16/Morgan_le_Fay.jpg/250px-Morgan_le_Fay.jpg&imgrefurl=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morgan_le_Fay_(Marvel_Comics)&h=244&w=250&sz=19&hl=en&start=11&um=1&usg=__lcY2h8idXiMuCa3hM4RFw6uCHbM=&tbnid=PM1APMo8YArXxM:&tbnh=108&tbnw=111&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmorgana%2Ble%2Bfay%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN

King Arthur

2008-10-21T19:44:00.003-04:00

Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur
http://www.creathornefarm.co.uk/photos/SW%20tintagel%20017.jpg

Sir Galahad
http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en-commons/8/87/Galahad.jpg

Lady of the Lake
http://www.nashfordpublishing.co.uk/portraits/scenes/lady_of_the_lake.jpg

Sir Tristram

2008-10-21T00:06:00.005-04:00

Sir Tristram's birthplace near Lyoness

http://www.panspics.com/Pics/Ancient-Wood.jpg

Sir Lancelot

http://www.shillpages.com/dw/russew09.jpg

Guinevere

http://www.achievement.org/autodoc/photocredit/achievers/and0-014

Sir Percival (and others)

2008-10-20T14:15:00.002-04:00

Percival's childhood home in the Welsh countryside:

http://k53.pbase.com/g6/11/118811/2/80174974.L6nEHbvM.jpg

Sir Bedevere:

http://content7.flixster.com/question/37/11/38/3711385_std.jpg

Morgana la Fey:

http://www.flixster.com/user/lestrangekid/quiz/helena-bonham-carter-character-quiz

Sir Kay+

2008-10-20T10:14:00.010-04:00

Caer Gai - Sir Kay's birthplace
- http://www.gutenberg.org/files/16361/16361-h/images/img3.jpg

- http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~wlsmer2/Cartrefi/caergai.jpg

Sir Lancelot
- http://blogs.theage.com.au/schembri/first.jpg

Isolde
http://www.jwwaterhouse.com/paintings/images/waterhouse_tristan_and_isolde.jpg

Assignment #5

2008-10-20T08:15:00.002-04:00

This assignment is due on Friday, October 31st by 12 noon.

So far, I am intrigued by the various different approaches that you have taken to this project. Now, this is a nitty gritty assignment, that will require a little bit of work but not a lot of writing. I want you to find three pictures for the blog that fill the following criteria.

1) A picture that represents that place of your character's birth. It doesn't have to be an actual picture of the place, but it should at least symbolize your homeland or place of birth. It should also be clearly identifiable in location...don't just choose a generic castle. It could be a picture of the Scottish highlands, or of the actual castle that was said to be your birthplace.

2) A picture/drawing that portrays one of the other male characters. You can not use the same picture as anyone else or one that has been used before. In other words, make sure you look at the other choices before you post. There are lots of male characters besides Arthur, Lancelot and Mordred.

3) A picture/drawing that portrays one of the other female characters. Again, the same rules as above apply. While there are less female characters, there are still plenty of different pictures for people like Morgan Le Fay and Guinevere.

Make sure you provide web citations for all images. Make sure you also clearly identify who the images are. Finally, if three other people have chosen to post a picture of the same character you wanted to use, you must choose another character of the appropriate gender. There are plenty to go around. I don't want 28 Arthurs and 28 Guineveres.

Good luck!

Morals of Sir Gawain

2008-10-18T11:12:00.002-04:00

Honesty is one of my biggest moral.
I have to be very loyal. Being loyal wins much respect
I believe in looking good. My reputation is more important than the opinion of myself.
Sin should be as visible as virtues.
I stand by my commitments even if it jeopardize my own life
I desire to maintain integrity and by that it enables me to conquer my fears. When it comes to romance and love, I am very loyal to my wife or colleague.

Sir Cador

2008-10-13T19:21:00.001-04:00

I follow the ten commandments of the medieval code of chivalry:
1. Thou shalt believe all that the Church teaches, and shalt observe all its directions.
2. Thou shalt defend the Church.
3. Thou shalt respect all weaknesses, and shalt constitute thyself the defender of them.
4. Thou shalt love the country in which thou wast born.
5. Thou shalt not recoil before the enemy.
6. Thou shalt make war against the Infidel without cessation, and without mercy.
7. Thou shalt perform scrupulously thy feudal duties, if they be not contrary to the laws of God.
8. Thou shalt never lie, and shalt remain faithful to thy pledged word.
9. Thou shalt be generous, and give largesse to everyone.
10. Thou shalt be everywhere and always the champion of the Right and the Good against Injustice and Evil.

I believe in this. I protect what is mine. Guinevere is my ward; I try not to show her the violent side of my life. Women are to be protected. I protect my king and his kingdom. I do what is necessary to keep my people and my king safe.

Love? True love is impractical no matter how much one wants it. A good match is all one can ask for. Love…love will either develop or at least a mutual respect for each other. Sex is a needed release for all men. They are expected to “sow their wild oats” before marriage but women are expected to be with only one man, the man she is married to.

However, one must absolutely sure who you go to bed with even when you are married…

Sir Caradoc

2008-10-12T00:56:00.002-04:00

My father, Caradoc the Elder, King of Nantes raised me to be valorous, virtuous, and truthful. I use might great strength to uphold the weak and defend the helpless. I may act foolishly or impatient at times but my courage and honor never falter, even in the face of certain death.

Sir Gareth

2008-10-10T13:02:00.002-04:00

The morals that lead my life are important ones. I strive to be the best, and therfore must act like the best. I aim to be gentle, modest, and patient to those around me. Of course when it comes to my enemies, I must be very strong and valorous. I make sure that i am known for MY deeds and not known as the younger brother of Gawaine, Gaheris, and Agravaine.

However, I have not decided what my ideas are about love. I am so quick to fall in love with such pretty ladies, before i even know who they are. I do intend to marry the woman, and i know a knight should be chivbut my body's urges are so strong. I tried three times one night, (of course she was the one to come to me to start it) and each time her sister kept sending this magic knight to stop me. Each time i chopped him up, but she would piece him together and send him back to stop me. I am always determined to win a contest for a woman, especially if i already love her.

But, i must admit. There are times when i get grumpy, especially if things dont go my way, and when i do get grumpy I will go out looking for a fight. This almost got me into trouble the day after the tournament. I almost killed my brother, for i did not recognize him. It was linet, the sister of my beloved Lady Lionesse, that came and stopped us.

Sir Gaheris

2008-10-10T01:47:00.001-04:00

(…)
I had no specific direction as I walked away from the site along with my horse; all the same I kept drifting away from the trail and getting closer to the edge of the nearby forest. Its darkness was my only refuge.
Even at a far distance, I could still hear the mystical calling of the lake, always seductive and treacherous. I was tempted to answer every time. The only escape was to keep moving towards the shelter of the trees.
My body ached with exhaustion; I sat down and reclined at the base of the nearest tree, while my head swirled with thoughts. I pulled out my sword and started to delineate a circular figure in the dirt.
The idea of being a Knight of the Round Table felt as if it was part of a life from a far past, one that I could hardly identify with. In that life I would not commit murder; I would by no means be cruel or refuse mercy. I would show kindness towards any creature that is in my power, for a Knight has to live at the mercy of pain. I would use power with discretion and demonstrate compassion even to the enemy. I would never steal or lie, and always flee treason. I would know and distinguish good from evil.
A swift breeze sidetracked my thoughts; its sweet smell reminded me of my damsel Lynette. Even in this current life, I would never be cruel to my lady; I would never hold her against her will and I would always fight and defend her by all means.
I closed my eyes surrendering to the exhaustion, and fell asleep dreaming about my gentle Lynette…

Sir Tristram

2008-10-10T00:48:00.002-04:00

Sir Tristram's Moral Code:

To be followed with the utmost discretion (i.e. don't talk about the Moral Code)

1.) Kill not, unless directed to do so by authorities above yourself, and if you find yourself in danger of potentially dying.

2.) Steal not, unless absolutely necessary (revenge does not count, but borrowing with full intent of returning said borrowed object does).

3.) Lie to protect from the truth and to protect your life.

4.) Behave respectfully when appropriate (special occasions, important occasions, lying occasions, etc.), otherwise act tough and knightly. Resort to violence when respect fails, or when absolutely called for by disrespecting/threatening parties (refer to rules 1 and 10).

5.) Love ruthlessly, enough said.

6.) Waste not on the romance of love, but do not deny your heart the romance it desires, and if romance is required...get it on! (see rule 7)

7.) Sex...Yes, please! (see rule 6)

8.) Questions? Consult Faith. (see rule 10)

9.) Still have questions? What would the Bible say? Does it necessitate overexertion? Would it be embarrassing? Will it make you look good? Does it make your enemies look bad? If it goes bad, can you blame it on someone else? (refer to rules 4 and 10)

10.) Keep in mind these are more like guidelines than an actual code. (see disclaimer)

(Disclaimer: Moral Code not to be blamed for lack of effectiveness against genius, stupidity, illness, magic, and the foreign.)

Merlin

2008-10-09T23:45:00.001-04:00

I abide by the highest moral codes. I only do harm when dear Arthur’s or his family’s safety is compromised. I would do anything, I would even die, to protect Arthur. My life revolves around his well-being, and I use my special powers to protect him and harm anyone who conspires against him. I do not believe in theft, rather in appreciating the things that we already have. However, as I have said, I would do anything to protect Arthur. This includes stealing and lying, although I prefer to do neither. I have tried to abstain from falling in love, because I saw in a vision that the woman I love will end up destroying me and killing me.

Elaine of Astolat

2008-10-09T23:26:00.002-04:00

Hailing from a noble family, I was raised to follow the moral code of the Church. But alas, when my eyes fell upon Sir Lancelot, I could not help but love him. He says he cannot be with me. For he has taken an oath of celibacy and chivalry. I do not care if the Church says I must be married to be with a man. I do not care if Lancelot must be true to his oath. I must be with him. I love him!

Percival

2008-10-09T23:22:00.006-04:00

A moral code? Oh yes, my mother spoke of this before I left her, especially on how to deal with women. I can take a kiss, a ring or almspurse from a maiden, but nothing more than that. Also I should always ask a person's name before I speak or travel with him, and take a gentleman's advice, and pray in churches and chapels (whatever they are) when ever I can. It's curious though; when I met a sleeping maid and kissed her, took her ring, and drank her wine and ate the meat pies she had, she wasn't very friendly to me. Perhaps she just wasn't hungry.

Eventually, I did learn from the more experienced knights how I should truly act around ladies, when and how to challenge someone, and exactly what the purpose of a church was.

I guess over all, my morals are really based off of what my mother told me and things I learned along the way. Be kind to women (but don't steal a ring or the Haughty knight will hunt you), challenge a knight in the proper way (or you get hit with a lance and he gets a javelin between the eyes), and that religious duties are very important.

Sir Lancelot

2008-10-09T23:11:00.002-04:00

I was raised on knightly virtues and taught courtly love and manners; I therefore live by the chivalric code. I will kill to defend a lady, my King, King Arthur, or myself. I treat ladies with respect and conduct myself in a respectful manner to others as well and I am loyal to my King. The only times I deviate from the code is when I am tricked and put into an unfavorable situation and my love for Guinevere is the only disloyalty to my King I have committed, and I will defend her at any cost.

Isolde

2008-10-09T22:56:00.004-04:00

I hold my morals and values with the greatest regard. I do not believe in sinning. I would never lie. I have my dignity and honesty to uphold. I would never steal. I have everything I need. And kill? Impossible! I heal the sick and wounded, what good would it do to harm someone for selfish reasons whatsoever? And that is why I, personally, am against wars and would like to see peace and equality.
I believe in being true and loyal to the one I love. Of course, I haven't really been honest about it. How could I? For I don't love my husband (my heart belongs to another), yet I have to stay with him for the sake of peace between my father's kingdom and his.
Of course I am a princess and have never been exposed to dangerous situations, but if I or anyone for that matter were threatened by vile powers, I would sacrifice my morals for greater good.

Sir Agravaine

2008-10-09T22:42:00.003-04:00

Many consider me to be a vile creature, prone to lies and deceit, murder and revenge. I suppose I am a bit more vengeful than most and perhaps I do hold a grudge a bit to long but as I see it, all my actions are justified. Some call me a murderer. I say I am simply defending my family. Sir Lamorak's death was the result of a treacherous affair with my mother. Son of the vile King Pellinore. As far as I am concerned, that entire family deserves what it gets. My brothers may have avenged my fathers death by slaying that so called king but I am proud to have aided in the killing of his vile offspring. And if you believe my informing of King Aurthur as to the affair of his bride and Sir Lancelot was a sin then let me ask you what you consider adultery and deceit. Besides, the man is a plague upon this court and my families honor. He may be the greatest in battle, but he shall fall the same as any man. I suppose to conclude all I can say this; my family comes above all and to cross them or harbor with their enemy shall incur my immediate wrath. Though wronging me is not advisable either.

Guinevere

2008-10-09T21:15:00.001-04:00

I bestow a moral code of chivalry upon the Knights of the Round Table and expect them to treat this code with respect as well as I. My moral code has been broken due to my love for a man other than my husband which I suffer from but cannot help my feeling for. I do not condone treason against the King, my husband, but my heart has challenged my morality. I have gone against my own moral beliefs by sleeping with Sir Lancelot and participating in courtly love. But, I swear my love is true (his for me as well). This relationship has caused destruction of my morality and I must lie to keep my secret. I am torn between them but must decide what to do for I am sinning and causing destruction through Camelot-which was not my intention.

Morgause...

2008-10-09T20:57:00.002-04:00

Morals??? What's that?? I am a great sorceress and I can manipulate people as I want! It's not that I'm mean I just want things to be like I want them to be.

I mean I have done some stuff in my life...like who hasn't! Everyone has their "skelleton in the closet". I might have manipulated my brother Arthur to sleep with me and having his baby, my dear son Mordred. Then yeah...I also might have been sleeping with the families enemy, or one of his sons, which lead to my death....

By feigning friendship with Guenevere, only to discourage her confidence in the new marriage and encourage the young queen in her admiration of Lancelot might be a moral issue. But over all I am a nice person, a beatuifull woman with pretty eyes and glittering golden hair but morals I don't have!!!

Sir Maleagant

2008-10-09T20:47:00.002-04:00

Moral code? I have a unthinking boldness personality; I make rash decisions and do whatever i want because I can, even though it might kill me. You can do anything you want if you don't think about the consequences, its a great skill I practice immensely. If a woman will not love me I will make her love me, just like I did Guinevere.

Sir Bedivere

2008-10-09T20:43:00.003-04:00

My moral code is one of loyalty to my liege, King Arthur. I will obey all orders without question to remain loyal to my lord, and I will claim the life of any and all who stand against the values of my lord's vision for Camelot. Although I regret the taking of life, I will not hesitate in my actions. I will do anything to remain loyal until my last breath. I will steal and I will lie if my lord commands me to do so, for he would not request such a fell order without guidance from what is true and noble. Through my actions, villainous as lying and cheating appear, I would be doing what is just.

My personal code of behavior about violence is pacifist. I am not rash or hasty in my actions, nor am I unjust. I will not end lives out of vengeance or hate. Love, romance, and sex are an intricate dance intertwined in matrimony, and should not occur outside the sanctity of marriage.

Morgan Le Fay

2008-10-09T18:48:00.001-04:00

I am a very powerful sorceress, and I will use my powers as I please. I rarely kill others myself, being a queen and a sorceress above such knightly brutality. I have attempted many times to kill Arthur with my knights and a crown enchanted to incinerate the wearer. I have many loyal knights and maids that will give their lives protecting me. I keep and torture many prisoners in my castle, knights, yeomen and peasants alike. I use sorcery to capture passing knights, even those as powerful as Sir Lancelot and Sir Tristram. I will steal without reproach and have done so with an object even as protected as Excalibur. I have, in fact, stolen the sword and the scabbard of Excalibur and created a copy of each so that my lover, Sir Accolon could kill my traitorous brother Arthur. After their battle, I convinced Guinevere to accompany me to her husband and stole the scabbard once again as Arthur slept wounded. I have forced men into love with maids and noblewomen through sorcery and have forced men to love me. There are few that can withstand my lust, although Lancelot was indeed above my powers to ensnare. I do have a strong personal code and I must have my revenge on any that wrongs me. Even Guinevere must be dealt with for wronging me and I will expose her and any other maids of Arthur’s court for the adulteresses they are.

Sir Galahad

2008-10-09T18:04:00.002-04:00

There is one and only one set of morals for which all men should live by and that is the one that God has set. His principles are simple, but are important if you wish to make it to Heaven. I do everything in the name of my Lord. If God has told me to kill a sinner than I shall, but I only kill if there is no other way. My heart is large and pure. It is this way because I have taken a vow of celibacy and shall respect my Savior's wishes.

Sir Kay

2008-10-09T12:13:00.001-04:00

The only code I live by is the code of the Knights of the Round Table. I can and will kill anyone who challenges me or the rule of Arthur and his Knights. If I decide that someone is undeserving of riches then I have no problem stealing from them even though I do not need to. My greatest attempt at lying was when I tried to steal Arthur’s title from him by claiming that I pulled the sword from the stone which would have made me King. My personal code of behavior is that I do what I want when I want and I do not care how cruel or violent I may be perceived. Women are for sex and sex only, I do not believe in love. I think that when a man decides to devote his life to one woman he is being weak. Romance is for men who are not powerful enough to take the women that they desire.

Mythology Midterm

2008-10-09T10:29:00.001-04:00

MYTHOLOGY MIDTERM
Fall 2008

The exam is due back by the beginning of class on Wednesday, October 15th. No late exams will be accepted. Exams should be typed (single-spaced is fine) and the answer length should take into account that this is a take home exam. Please read each section and question carefully before you answer. You may use your notes and the assigned readings (which you should consult to flesh out any weak answers) to assist you with preparing for your own answers, but do not copy or plagiarize any material. Doing so will result in automatic failure of the test. Good Luck!

You must answer TWO of the following questions.

1) Compare and contrast the legends of the Titans with those of the Olympic gods. Why do you think the Greeks had the Titans overthrown and thus replaced one mythology with another? Are there signs in the pantheons that the replacement was not easy to do? What happens to the Titans after they are deposed? What do you think this says about the Greek concept of victory and punishment for the vanquished?

2) The lectures describe the background of Zeus from his creation to his overthrow of the Titans to become the Lord of Olympus. Chose four other Greek gods or goddesses and briefly compare and contrast their origins and the tales surrounding their lives. How do the myths surrounding the four gods or goddesses you have chosen compare to the myths about Zeus?

3) The Greeks and Romans created a series of heroes to explain how people should act within their respective societies. According to Joseph Campbell, heroes in mythology are key figures used by our ancestors to explain how mortal man can attempt to become more equal with the gods/goddesses themselves, as well as providing examples of acceptable societal behaviors. Yet all of the heroes have flaws to complement their unique strengths and skills, while many act in very non-heroic ways. In your essay, examine at least two different Greco-Roman heroes (other than Hercules), comparing and contrasting the heroes and their exploits. How do their exploits illustrate Joseph Campbell’s points? What do you think is responsible for the long lasting power of these stories to affect us even today?

4) Compare and contrast the mythological aspects of the Roman Aeneid with those found in the Greek Iliad and Odyssey. Do you think Aeneas is more of a hero than Achilles, Hector or Odysseus? Explain your answer and provide examples from the textbook where necessary to illustrate the points you are making.

King Arthur

2008-10-08T22:08:00.002-04:00

Morals are all a man has. I live by my morals and use them to rule fairly. I don't believe in things like lying or cheating, and stealing is definitely out of the question. I have a high value for human life and it angers me when it is stolen or taken for granted. Now I'm not saying that killing is always wrong, but unless you, your loved ones, or your home are being threatened, killing is unnecessary.

Sir Bors

2008-10-08T19:06:00.003-04:00

I have a strict moral code. I will fight if I have a good reason, like if a noblewoman is being wronged, but I don't like to kill people. For instance, when I fought Sir Prydam for a noblewoman who was going to loose her kingdom, I spared his life when he asked for it. When my brother attacked me for not coming to his rescue when he was being beaten (I decided to save a noblewoman being kidnapped instead), I would not fight back. I do not have sex, nor do I have any relationship with a woman at all. I have had sex once, but I was tricked with a magic ring, and I ask for forgiveness every time I am near a church or priest. I am bound by my vows of chastity, and I will not break them. I am one of the few men who will see the Holy Grail because of my moral code.

Sir Mordred

2008-10-07T19:42:00.002-04:00

Morals? I believe in doing what is best for one's own self, the strong should not be hindered by the weak. I don't believe in Arthur's goodie goodie ways and I aim to change the kingdom in my own way. As long as it gets you to where you need to be; lying, cheating, stealing, it doesn't matter as long as you get what is yours in the end. People may say this is selfish but "people" are weak and stupid and don't deserve what they've gotten just handed to them. I for one will never be bogged down by petty morality.

Nimue

2008-10-06T21:45:00.002-04:00

Some people think of me as fickle, but I have my methods. I will do whatever I can to achieve power. To become more powerful than Merlin I had to trick him, and I used my beauty and love to do it. I didn't dirty myself by killing Merlin, I just merely tricked him. I am not a violent women.

Do I truly know romance and love? Yes I do. I love my husband. Do I know loyalty? Yes of course, I am loyal to the King, and to my husband Pelleas.

I am a lady and I act as such. Just don't expect me to be weak and bow down to your will, and you'll be safe from me.

Sir Caradoc (3rd blog)

2008-10-03T11:16:00.001-04:00

I am afraid of the man who challeneged me to a beheading contest. The contest involved me striking him in the next at full force, only to let him return the blow. When I struck the man, his head came clean off. At which point the body walked over and replaced the head on its shoulders. Now, the man plans to return within a year to return the blow and end my life. The King and Queen have tried to prevent it but he won't change his mind.

4th Assignment

2008-10-03T10:45:00.000-04:00

This assignment is due by 12 noon, Friday, October 10th.

Again, these are a set of questions that require a little bit of thought. The answers may not be obvious, but in many cases they will be. Think about your answers before posting.

Questions: What is your moral code? For example, under what conditions will you kill? Steal? Lie? Do you have a personal code of behavior about violence? What about love, romance and sex?

Elaine of Astolat

2008-09-29T13:00:00.002-04:00

Though I am a beautiful, fair young maiden, flawed I am. I fear unrequited love. My beloved Lancelot has left me alone and mourning. I fear that I shall never mend my broken heart. If I must live with this burden, I fear it shall be my end.

Percival

2008-09-29T12:02:00.002-04:00

Failure is my greatest fear. Failure as a knight, failure as a man, and failure in my quest to find the holy grail. The grail, or what I thought was the grail, was once within my grasp, but I did not ask about the cup or what it contained as it was carried past me by a beautiful young woman. Had I but asked, I could have saved the Fisher King, who had sent me to find the one thing that would keep him from dying. This failure made my desire to succeed increase, no matter what the cost to my body or how long it would take.

Nimue

2008-09-29T09:40:00.002-04:00

Though I wield great power, I must use it wisely. I fear one day someone may become more powerful than me and take everything away. I must deal with them before it is too late. I fear Arthur will fall in battle, so I must protect him. Without him I'd only be a beautiful lady swimming in a lake.

My greatest fear though, is betrayal. I fear someone will not hold up to their agreement, throwing back the gracious gift I bestowed upon them, and cutting me down. My power is useless if I can't keep people under my thumb. That is my greatest fear.

Sir Kay

2008-09-29T09:10:00.001-04:00

As a child and Son of Sir Ector, it was expected of me to be as great if
not greater then my father. When my father had offered to take in Arthur
as a baby, it was my determination that I shall always be better
then he. Arthur was my scrawny squire and my biggest fear is that he shall
amount to something better than I. I feared this because of my pride and
the expectations of my father.  When Arthur came to me with the sword from
the stone, which only the King would be able to pull, my biggest fear had
been realized and I quickly attempted to take credit for this miracle.
The realization of Arthur’s destiny was my biggest fear come true, but I
promised myself that I would be a noble and loyal Knight of his Round
Table to attempt to get over the great blow to my ego.

Sir Ector

2008-09-29T08:29:00.002-04:00

What I am afraid of? When I was younger, before I knew of Arthur's identity, I feared that my foster son would outshine my son Sir Kay. Since I did not know of Arthur's lineage, I did not know how great of a knight he could be. For this reason, I made Arthur follow in his his brother's footsteps, always serving him.
Now that I know who Arthur is (and he has promoted my son and family) I fear that he will fail as a king. I worry about him daily. He has many enemies and needs to take caution where ever he goes. My greatest fear is that he will die and someone else will overtake the throne.

Sir Agravain

2008-09-29T00:30:00.002-04:00

Hum, my greatest fear you ask. Well many a knight will tell you he hasn't one and in my prouder moments I may say the same. But of course I fear. Am I not human. My greatest fear eats, sleeps, fights better than any other, and is one hell of an adulterer. He is of course that worm Sir Lancelot who has shamed me many a time in battle. I suppose it is my hate for him that makes me fear him most. From experience I know I cannot defeat him in battle but perhaps with a clever scheme and a few faithful knights I can bring him down a peg; perhaps even a few feet below ground. I like the sound of that. I shall ask my brothers first for their assistance with this weighty undertaking. Besides, with Lancelot gone what more could I have to fear?

Sir Lancelot

2008-09-29T00:05:00.002-04:00

My greatest fear is that Arthur will discover my love for Guinevere. I am afraid of loosing the trust that has formed between us. I am torn between my allegiance to King Arthur and and my love for his Queen. I fear that if King Arthur discovers the truth about Guinevere and I it will tear us and the other Knights of the Round table apart. The events that would ensue could be disastrous; I fear that I will be the cause of it all because I fell in love with Guinevere.

Isolde's fears

2008-09-28T23:43:00.012-04:00

My life has been peaceful and happy, for the most part. I have always lived in the safety of strong and well defended castle walls. Yet I am no stranger to fears that disturb me and cause me a great deal of sorrow. I fear the cruelty of this world-death destruction and war. I do not wish these to plague my (or any for that matter) kingdom. I fear that my healing powers may fail me one day and be the cause of someone's death, it is one of my darkest fears.
Until a few years ago, I feared being alone. Like any other young woman, I longed to find that one true love, and feared that I may never find him. Then I met Sir Tristram...and I do so love him deeply. Even though I knew I had to marry King Mark, for the peace between Cornwall and Ireland, I could never stop loving Tristram. And now a greater fear threatens to drive me insane- What if Mark discovers our affair? What if he hurts Tristram? I am mortally afraid of losing Tristram and it tears me apart to think we can never be together.
Yet in all my sorrows and strifes, I know I must be strong, for my sake, and for the sake of my loved ones.

Sir Gareth

2008-09-28T23:40:00.002-04:00

For the longest time, my biggest fear has been that someone would figure out my identity. After a year of working at the castle, I trusted Sir Lancelot enough to trust him with my true identity so that he may knight me.

I also think that deep down inside I have a fear of not being good enough. Being the youngest of four brothers, three of which had joined the round table before me, I must complete all tasks set before me with flying colors. I must be the biggest, the fastest, the strongest, the best.

King Arthur

2008-09-28T23:28:00.002-04:00

What others may consider fear, I consider caution. As King, it is vital that I be aware of my surroundings and with Merlin's help I may avoid most any threat. He has been my adviser for many years and has always looked out for my best interest. Some may call it superstition, but I don't think so. You see, I had a dream the other night in which I was killed in a battle with Sir Mordred. We are supposed to battle soon, I think I'll call a truce. You'll see, my caution will pay off.

Sir Tristram

2008-09-28T23:11:00.002-04:00

Alas, I must admit the fear that plagues my thoughts aren't the same troubles of other knights. I have lived a much shorter life than these other fellows, but I have also already achieved a great deed in restoring freedom to the Kingdom of Cornwall. However, seeing that I am in quite a predicament at the moment with my poisonous injury from my duel with Sir Marhaus, I find myself fearing not only my untimely death but something more. I fear that if I die from this wretched wound that I die without ever finding my true love. Yes, I fear never being able to experience the crazed musings of love's devoted followers, never feeling that deep sense of yearning and pride in the exchanging of hearts, and never being the source of someone's happiness. Sadly, I find that love is the one emotion that I've not had the luxury of experiencing. Ever since my birth I have caused great pain (if you recall my mother died giving birth to me and my stepmother has always kept a dagger sharpened with my name on it) and for once in my life, I wish no more than to inspire affection.

*sigh*

Of course, being a knight, I don't dwell on such fleetings of the heart but every now and then I find myself lost in the fantasies that I fear will never come to pass. Nevertheless, each moment I find myself still alive and awaiting my arrival in the country of Ireland, I'm hopeful and for that my dear comrades, I shall trade with no man the worries that I carry for myself.

Morgause

2008-09-28T23:10:00.002-04:00

I don't really have many fears. I'm really confident about myself and I can manipulate anybody using my sorcery... But this one time when Arthur decided to send my son Gareth away on a quest to save Dame Lyonesse I got really worried about his well fair... So when he came back from this quest is was really relived!!!

I think I'm a little bit scared about growing old and thus not being able to seduce as many men as I want to... But being a sorcerer makes things easier...

I'm really afraid that my boys are going to find out about my affair with Sir Lamerak who is the families enemy... Lemark is the son of King Pellinore who killed my husband in battle which started a blood feud between our family and his, so I'm really not supposed to associate with that family and especially not in the way I am!!!!

Sir Galahad

2008-09-28T22:50:00.002-04:00

Impurity and sinning are my biggest fears. I serve for my lord and keep my heart pure and sinless for him. Becoming impure would be the biggest sin in my life and would make me a failure in the eyes of my lord. He is my savior. He leads and I follow. Without him, I'm nothing, but with him I'm everything.

Merlin

2008-09-28T22:07:00.000-04:00

While I would like to say that I am fearless, my true underlying fear is that Arthur will be killed in battle. That is why I am always so willing to give aid to Arthur in any way I can, such as using my prophetic and mystical powers to his advantage. I always do everything I can to protect young Arthur and his family, and always have their best interests at heart. I have known Arthur since he was very young, and would hold myself personally responsible for anything that might happen to him, which is why I am always making prophecies pertaining to him and his family.

Sir Gaheris

2008-09-28T22:05:00.000-04:00

I am still mesmerized at the image staring back at me; I have not moved from the edge of the lake. The smell of her blood is now burning my nostrils. I want to jump in the water, to wash off her scent, to obliterate the hunting images in my head—to take my last breath and sink. Yet my body feels rigid, unbending to any commands. Because of what I have done, I have lost my honor, dignity, nobility, loyalty, and courage. I am no Knight.
What is to become of me?

Sir Maleagant

2008-09-28T20:47:00.003-04:00

I am Sir Maleagant. and I am best known as the knight who kidnaps Guinevere. Becoming a Knight of the Round Table at a young age and only by birthright make many not trust me or like me, and by abducting Guinevere, making Sir Lancelot hate me. I am in love with Guinevere and it is my fear that she will marry someone else, so i have kidnapped her. In doing so, it caused Sir Lancelot to come and save Guinevere. This caused me even more fear because Sir Lancelot is so much stronger than I. These series of events have caused me great emotional turmoil for I love Guinevere but Sir Lancelot has come to save her and there is nothing I can do to stop him but to try and be devious to trick him. In conclusion, I feared that Guinevere would never love me so i panicked and abducted her without thinking to keep her to myself, but due to this i have ensured my own death.

Sir Cador

2008-09-28T20:40:00.002-04:00

I am afraid of failing. I am the Duke of Cornwall and am responsible for my people and my king. Also, I am responsible for Guinevere, a wonderful child. I see a bright future for her and I do not want to fail her. And yet...perhaps in that area I might fail. I loose sleep every night.

Arthur has proved himself a good king and a loyal friend. It is my duty to protect him and his kingdom. If I fail, people will lose their welfare and their lives.

I cannot fail. I will not fail.

Sir Bors

2008-09-28T19:53:00.003-04:00

Like most knights, I am not afraid of pain or death. My fears are deeper than the physical realm; they are of the spiritual realm. Long ago the daughter of King Brandegoris tricked me into sleeping with her by using a magic ring. I fear that I will not be worthy to see the Holy Grail because of this past, even though I have never slept with another. Any time that I am near a church, I attend mass, and I ask penance from every priest that I meet, in hopes that I will be forgiven for my grave sin. Perhaps these measures will be enough to make me a man worthy of viewing the Holy Grail.

Morgan Le Fay

2008-09-28T19:41:00.003-04:00

I am afraid of little, there is one thing that lurks above all else in my mind. I fear that my plot to overthrow my world-blind half brother Arthur, so called king, will be revealed to him. He is unfit to rule if he is indeed unable to see the affair of his dear wife with the great knight, Sir Lancelot. If only he had taken to me as he had taken to that slut, I would not need to destroy Arthur's regime. For the time being, I plot and hope that I am not discovered to be truly behind this brilliant scheme until it is successfully carried out.

Sir Bedivere

2008-09-28T15:50:00.004-04:00

Dishonor. I dread the thought of bringing dishonor upon my name, my house, my lord, and the great Camelot. Dishonor is a poison which conquers all that is good; a blight that once stains, stains forever. A dishonorable knight has no place in Camelot, and I would be forced to leave the fairest city in all of Christendom forever. Dishonor will rend me forever from the sight of my liege, my lord. I would be cast asunder, with no hope of redemption, to wander the darkest places of the world alone forever. All who see me shall cast rocks upon my dishonored person. My most holy Lord and God would regret the moment I first breathed the air of this world, and never allow entrance into His holy gates.

I fear not pain, having lost one arm in the fight for the protection of Camelot, I would gladly bear all tortures. I fear not death, a death in battle is honorable, and my lifesblood would fall to preserve Camelot. My body is but one, and my life is but one, but I would gladly offer the last fiber of my being in the quest to defeat all that stands against the virtues of Camelot. But I could not bear dishonor. Dishonor is a slow death which lasts forever. Dishonor is enduring. Death ends with death, bodily harm ends with death, but my good name and good deeds would live forever. Dishonor is the brier which throttles after death, enduring, so all that remember me, reflect upon me and curse. Dishonor is to die for eternity.

Guinevere

2008-09-28T14:51:00.001-04:00

My greatest fear is that my husband, the King will figure out that I have not been faithful and even worse with one of his own men. I am afraid I will be punished by the King for my terrible sins of adultery and treason. (Although the King was not free of sins or flaws either). I know my sins have caused pain and destruction to Camelot. Therefore, I am going to run away to a convent to purify my soul for I am scared of condemnation for my sins.

Sir Mordred

2008-09-25T21:00:00.002-04:00

I wouldn't say I'm really scared of anything so much as I'm smart. Like the time Aggravayne and I busted Lancelot and Gwenny with 11 other guys and everyone got slaughtered but me. I ran, so what? its not like I was scared its just... ummm here he comes so I'm gonna ...... by the way I hate the smell of hawks.

Third Assignment

2008-09-22T10:41:00.000-04:00

This assignment is due on Monday September 29th by 12 noon. So far I have been impressed by the quality of the responses and the "revisions" a few of you have made to weaker entries. Keep up the good work.

Assignment 3. Okay, this one took a little thought. It's a bit of a challenge, but let's see how you do. Each and every one of you (i.e. your characters) has a fear or something they are afraid of. What is it? Why are you afraid of it?

This could be an idea, a concept, or an actual thing. Think about it, and see if you can come up with a plausible answer. This assignment is the first real "think" piece, so try to think about your answer before quickly jotting something down. It is certainly not an assignment to let wait until Monday at 11:45 a.m. There isn't necessarily a "right" answer, or just one answer, for some characters. Choose which answer best suits your idea of your character and their motivations.

Good Luck.

Sir Ector

2008-09-19T09:20:00.003-04:00

I, Sir Ector, am an older, average height gentleman. I look like the fatherly person I am. I care about my children and try to get what is best for them and my family. this is why I asked King Arthur to make my son Kay a knight and overseer of the kingdom's land. Since Arthur agreed, I show support for my own family and for the Kingdom in the clothes I wear.

Sir Gareth

2008-09-18T23:03:00.004-04:00

I am much younger than the other knights. but, I am taller by 18 inches. I am richly clothed when not in my suit of armour. I am strongly built. My most noticibly feature is my large beautiful hands. When I would not give my name to those of the round table, Sir Kay nicknamed me Beaumains because of my hands.

This is a picture of me and Lady Lynette on my first adventure as a knight.

http://www.kingarthursknights.com/knights/gareth.asp

Sir Gawain

2008-09-18T15:23:00.004-04:00

I am the great knight of all times. The women love my style and how strong i can be. I love the color red. It shows my authority on site. I grew up in an average life still but once i realize what i really was i put on the atire that speaks for itself. I can endure anything, such as the cold and heat. I have become an very independent person and can take care of myself and others i care for. As my strength builds through the day, you wouldnt want to cross my path the wrong way.

Guinevere

2008-09-18T15:11:00.006-04:00

http://www.lib.rochester.edu/camelot/images/wrflt&gv.htm

My name in welsh means "white phantom" and my beauty is known to many men. I am somewhat of a damsel in distress and have been abducted on numerous accounts by men who desire me. I am fair and pure like that of an angel with flowing long blonde hair.However, I have my flaws (like all mortals) and have succumbed to temptation, but my love for Arthur and Lancelot is true. I often have The white flowers in my hair represent springtime and renewal of growth and life for I am the flower bride.

Guinevere

2008-09-18T15:11:00.003-04:00

My name in welsh means "white phantom" and my beauty is well known to many men. I am somewhat of a damsel in distress and have been abducted on numerous accounts by men who desire me. I am tall, fair and pure like that of an angel with flowing long blonde hair. However, I have my flaws (like all mortals) and have succumbed to temptation, but my love for Arthur and Lancelot is true. I often have white flowers in my hair which represent springtime and renewal of growth and life for I am the flower bride.

Sir Cador

2008-09-18T15:05:00.004-04:00

http://www.myplaymoworld.com/knights/knights.html

I, Sir Cador, am of good Roman stock. Tall, fearless, and loyal, I am a protector of my ward, Guinevere, and I am a cousin to Arthur. I wear traditional armor, a helmet, and a pair of strudy boots. Always I carry with me my sword, dagger and shield. As a loyal friend to Arthur, it is my job to arm him in battle.

Sir Kay

2008-09-18T12:50:00.002-04:00

My height is legend. I am frequently called Kay the Tall and feared for my size. I wear the uniform of a true Knight of King Arthur’s round table usually with armor. I am never without my renowned sword for any enemy I cut will not soon be healed by any physician. Also with me always is my shield for defense, not that it is necessary for me. Throughout history I am portrayed as a cruel womanizing brute, but my loyalty to my stepbrother Arthur is never questioned. I am believed to have some mystical abilities such as shifting into any size or shape, surviving underwater for days on end, and generating massive amounts of heat.

Sir Tristram

2008-09-18T08:50:00.003-04:00

http://www.roundtable-bretonnia.org/index.php?option=com_ponygallery&Itemid=32&func=detail&id=1231

I am told that I am very handsome, if not the most handsome of Knights and because of my young age, I also have great agility and strength in battle (I also have both of my arms). I’ve had several ladies bid for my love, but none have won my attention (I still accept letters and gifts by overnight squire, fair Frances I do not return your love please stop writing me!). By the grace of my uncle, King Mark, I was fitted with the finest armor, horse, and harness. My sword is strong but not unflawed as it has a small fragment that is missing from it. I fought my first duel against the great knight, Sir Marhaus, of Ireland in order to free my beloved Cornwall from the bondage Ireland has kept her in. Unfortunately for Sir Marhaus, his head was the recipient of the broken shard from my sword, a gift he carried with him until his death. I am currently traveling to Ireland (in clever disguise of course) to find the cure for an injury I received from Sir Marhaus's poison-tipped spear, even though the man is dead he's still a pain in my, ahem, side.

Sir Caradoc

2008-09-17T23:22:00.003-04:00

I am Arthur's chief elder. I am known for being exceptionally strong and brave. Due to my great strength, I am know as Caradoc "Strong-Arm." I am tall, and as with most Knights of the Round Table, I carry a sword and shield.

image source: http://www.earlybritishkingdoms.com/bios/caradfgt.html

Sir Agravain

2008-09-17T22:32:00.006-04:00

Few see me for who I am. I will admit that I am a bit of an angry individual but if you had the maternal care of my mother, you may be much the same. My physical appearance is often overlooked due to my many misconstrued deeds but some consider me handsome. Lord, I must not be too homely since I was able to lure the lovely Lady Luarel to my side. Still, if you remember me for one thing remember this; I am handy with a sword and will kill for my families honor. Now if you'd like to hear a bit more about Lancelot and Guenevere...

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=204770613

Sir Gaheris

2008-09-17T20:58:00.003-04:00

I find myself on the edge of this vast lake, staring at my own reflection. My faced is drained from all blood; my dark hair is drenched in cold sweat. And realize my armor is stained with her blood. I look down to see the scarlet pattern on my sword, my fingers loosing its grip. I hear my horse a short distance away, still agitated from the long gallop. I feel my restless breathing becoming more painful every moment.
The image is still vivid in my head, my mother Morgause in bed with that bastard Lamorak, son of my father’s slayer! My rage was incontrollable at the sight of them. I had no other choice but to end it—I decapitated my own mother.

image: created by the insignificant brother

Sir Lancelot

2008-09-17T20:57:00.003-04:00

http://faculty.smu.edu/bwheeler/kinga/lancelaine.jpg

Tall and strong, I, Sir Lancelot, prefer to win my adventures disguised. I do this by changing my armor and sometimes only my shield. I carry a sword called Secace and also a lance when mounted as many other knights do as well. When I'm on a horse, though, it is often someone else's; I will ride a horse to death in battle.

Sir Bedivere

2008-09-17T19:59:00.003-04:00

As I have said, I am, ahem, my Lord's most handsome knight. I wear the traditional clothes that befit my status, including armor, a shield, sword, and lance. Most importantly, I don loyalty and faithfulness to my Lord--virtues which transcend mere worldly goods. I have sacrificed one arm in the fight to preserve glory and honor of Camelot.

Elaine of Astolat

2008-09-17T19:21:00.006-04:00

I am a fair young lady. I am called the lily maid. I have a dainty figure and am perfectly shaped from my head to my toes. I wear long flowing dresses that show my purity. And above all, my heart belongs to Sir Lancelot. But, alas! I do not hold his. Thus, I am sullen and lonely.

John William Waterhouse, "The Lady of Shalott", 1888
http://www.maryjones.us/jce/shalott.html

King Arthur

2008-09-17T18:17:00.005-04:00

I, Arthur, King of the Britons, Defeater of the Saxons, am the most gorgeous man in all of England. I was the only man worthy enough to win over the marvelously beautiful Gwynevere with my dashing good looks and athletic prowess. Image taken from http://www.fairiesworld.com/ web log/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/ Roger%20Federer%20as%20King %20Arthur.jpg

Morgan Le Fey

2008-09-17T17:45:00.004-04:00

I am a woman. Being a woman, I can use my dark hair and eyes to lure men with my charm. Using my sorcery, I am able to transform my shape and appearance to whatever I desire. At first, I dressed in the light clothing which fit me well and showed off my greatest assets. Animal skins are also part of my common dress. As time passes, I begin to become darker in dress and appearance, still maintaining my sexuality. I often am accompanied by a raven and an apple bough, strong symbols of magic.

Image Courtesy of:< http://www.sir-lancelot.co.uk/images/Morgan-le-fay.jpg>

Isolde

2008-09-17T17:27:00.017-04:00

I am tall, graceful and pale. I have long, wavy strawberry blonde hair. I usually dress in gowns of fine linen and occasionally I wear heavy silk gowns, which are delicate and regal. People say I am beautiful and charming; I accept that with grace and humility, but I am also a skilled healer. Being a healer, I like wearing gowns of different shades of green, but I wear deep reds, maroons, pinks, rich blues and whites too. I do not wear too many jewels or ornaments. I always wear my gold circlet, it is a sign of royalty (it also helps keep my hair in place!); and a delicate gold necklace which belongs to my mother. I almost always wear a cloak as it keeps me warm. I like to keep a small pouch filled with essential healing herbs tied to the sash on my waist; for you may never know when some unfortunate person might need them. I do not go out too much and occasionally stay in the castle knitting, growing herbs and playing the harp.

<http://www.revradiotowerofsong.org/images/540_Tristan_Isolde4.jpgl>

Sir Bors

2008-09-17T16:31:00.002-04:00

As a knight of the Round Table, I carry many of the same things as my fellow knights. I have a sword, a shield, and a lance with me so that I may be ready for anything that I should encounter. My horse has served me well. During the search for the Grail, he grew thin, until his ribs were visible. Also during this time, my sword became pitted with rust. I wear a helmet, but that cannot hide the scar that is on my forehead. This scar is a way to identify me as friend or foe.

Picture is from https://www.thunderboltmountain.com/images/painted_figs/mjacobsen/tmm_bors1.jpg

Lady of the Lake

2008-09-16T20:53:00.004-04:00

I am Nimue clad in white samite (heavy silken cloth) swirling in the depths of the lake. My beauty enchants any man. My hair, and my body are perfect and pale. Any wrinkle upon my face is washed away by the calming waters of the lake. I only carry those things you desire. Maybe a sword if you are without one.

Picture by-
Zena Holloway

Merlin

2008-09-16T11:36:00.003-04:00

I am rather tall and have a very distinct long white beard. I tend to wear long robes and I'm usually wearing either a hat or a hood to cover up my scraggly white hair. I may be wrinkled, but I'm as powerful as ever. I'm also pretty pale, because I really don't get out much.

Sir Mordred

2008-09-14T20:32:00.003-04:00

I was the only knight with any sense of style. Black armor, black capes, black robes, I had the works. In some stories I am the shadow of Arthur. Whatever, I'm the trend setter here and even the people who followed me wore some sort of black. Every other knight looked like a tool. You heard me guys you look like crap.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:MORDRED.jpg

Sir Galahad

2008-09-14T18:34:00.005-04:00

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Joseph_Noel_Paton_Sir_Galahad_JKAM.jpg

As you all know, I grew up in a nunnery. I dressed simply and was always skinny. When I met my father Sir Lancelot, I became one of King Arthur's knights. Therefore, I dressed appropriately for my new job. I'm known for my purity and spirtuality in Jesus Christ. On my conquests, I proudly carry King Evelake's shield, which is white with a red cross on it. I also am heir to Sir Balan's sword.

Sir Percival

2008-09-11T16:58:00.003-04:00

http://www.artmagick.com/pictures/picture.aspx?id=8217&name=the-legend-of-sir-perceval

As I was brought up in the woods, I am strongly built, a little tanned, and fair haired. When I left my mother, she dressed me in sturdy but very warn leathers, oversized tunic and breeches, and rough boots. Eventually, I was outfitted properly once I was accepted as a knight. Most people say that I am uncouth and crude, having lived in the woods for most of my life, but I don't agree. I mean, sure, I didn't know what a church or a kiss was, but I'm really good at hunting.

Morgause...

2008-09-10T21:58:00.005-04:00

I'm a tall and graceful person. I am told by others to be a very beautiful woman. I have dark auburn hair and glittering dark eyes. I am simply but richly dressed as a rule. My skill in sorcery is less obvious than my sister's but we are equals...

profile pic... http://lizschultz.com/Images/HiRez/QueenMorgause.jpg

my pic.... http://csis.pace.edu/grendel/projs992b/Image2.jpg

Morgause

2008-09-09T21:55:00.004-04:00

My name is Morgause. I am King Arthurs half-sister and I'm married to King Lot. I have 5 children Gawain, Gaheris, Agravain, Gareth, and Mordred. I am the sister of Elaine and Morgan le Fay. Mordred is the progeny of me sleeping with my half-brother Arthur but we had no idea we were relaited... I am born in A.D. 457. I come from Orkneys located north of Scotland. I am the daughter of Gorlois of Cornwall and Queen Igraine.