Went to Medieval Times and treated myself to this lovely miniature Sword in the Stone which really called out to me. I believe the crystal is some sort of aura treated mica, but I’m not entirely sure and I can’t seem to find any information on this particular souvenir anywhere.
Mordred: I have done nothing wrong, in my life, ever
Morgause: I know this and I love you.
It’s been a while since I’ve read it, but I remember liking it quite a bit. I was very disappointed by the incomplete ending, as he couldn’t finish the book.
I usually divide novels in two categories: Retellings of Malory (like Steinbeck’s book, Howard Pyle etc), vs Re-imaginations of arthuriana (like Mary Stewart, Nancy McKenzie, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Elizabeth Wein etc). I am quite fond of the second category, while I find the first category less exciting.
Still, Steinbeck definitely puts much of his own amazing writing skill in this retelling (I love his other novels too, he is a great author).
Honestly, I think everything is feasible! I think if someone really wants to combine the imaginary with an historical accuracy, there are ways. Maybe using two Arthurs (one from legends, like from the Welsh texts) and an Arthur in the “typical arthurian medieval times” who is named like the famous Arthur from the past but that does the majority of the Malory stuff. Basically separating the whole Annales/Welsh/Monmouth with the Malory (a part from the things that are copied into Malory).
Or, simply, just moving everything in a more aesthetically arthurian (as in, knights, castles etc.) period, like many movies do.
I am not sure about magic!
Gawain: Lancelot…he killed all my brothers…
Kay: Except for the one we wanted dead! God, what an asshole.
Arthurian Legends 