What Is The Truth Behind The Legend Of Merlin | Merlin - The Legend | Chronicle

The script introduces the legendary character of Merlin, a mythical hero and historical figure who embodies various roles such as a wise leader, magician, and prophet. Merlin's character has evolved through time, appearing in literature and media as a figure with magical powers that can unlock the future. The narrative discusses how Merlin's image has been shaped across centuries, from being a counselor to King Arthur to a character in modern fantasy works like Harry Potter. The origins of Merlin are traced back to a 12th-century book, 'The History of the Kings of Britain,' by Geoffrey of Monmouth, who created the myth to justify the Anglo-Norman aristocracy's rule. Merlin's character is a fusion of two figures, Ambrosius and Mervyn Wilt, and his story includes famous legends such as the dragons and the building of Stonehenge.

This paragraph delves into Merlin's portrayal in Welsh tradition and poetry, specifically in the 'Black Book of Carmarthen,' a 13th-century manuscript containing some of the oldest Welsh poetry. The book presents Merlin as a tragic figure with a history of battle and hardship, living in the wilderness and gaining wisdom that is respected by others. The script mentions three poems associated with Merlin, including 'Pa gur yv y porthaur?' ('Who is the gatekeeper?'), a dialogue between Merlin and Taliesin, discussing future events and battles. The paragraph highlights Merlin's transformation into a wild man with prophetic visions, a common archetype in world mythology.

The script discusses the evolution of Merlin's image from a wild prophetic poet to a more familiar figure in medieval literature. Merlin's representation in 13th and 14th-century manuscripts and illustrations is highlighted, showing him as an old, bearded man in a long gown, an image that is universal across many cultures. The paragraph also touches on Merlin's journey beyond Welsh local folklore to become a pan-European figure, particularly through French language romances that elaborated on his birth story and life, incorporating elements of Christianity to adapt the pagan tradition to a Christian context.

This section explores Merlin's expanded role in the Arthurian legend, particularly in French tradition, where he becomes a central figure with a complete biography. The script mentions the story 'Le Morte d'Arthur' by Sir Thomas Malory, one of the earliest printed books in English, which contributed to the popularization of the Arthurian tales. Merlin is depicted as a guide to King Arthur, leading him to the magical sword Excalibur and serving as his chief advisor. The paragraph also covers Merlin's involvement in Arthur's birth and the magical elements surrounding it, as well as the character's significance in the establishment of Camelot and the Round Table.

The script examines Merlin's transformation during the Renaissance, where he becomes a symbol of magic and wisdom. Merlin is associated with figures like John Dee, a physician and astrologer to Queen Elizabeth I, who saw himself as a Merlin-type figure. The paragraph discusses the interest in ritual magic during the Renaissance, with Merlin representing a connection to the natural world and the possibility of wisdom. The script also touches on the influence of Merlin in the works of Shakespeare and Marlowe, as well as the changing perceptions of wild places and nature during this period.

This paragraph discusses the reimagining of Merlin during the 18th century, a time when artists and poets sought solace in the ancient past. The script describes the growing antiquarian movement that revived interest in ancient Britain and the figure of the druid, with Merlin being portrayed in illustrations as a chief druid. The paragraph also mentions the influence of poets like Gray and the powerful imagery of 'The Bard,' which contributed to the romanticization of Merlin and the Welsh landscape.

The script explores Merlin's portrayal in 19th-century art and literature, particularly through the lens of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the Arts and Crafts movement. Merlin is depicted as a romantic artist and a symbol of the suffering artist in the works of poets like Alfred, Lord Tennyson. The paragraph highlights the influence of German Romanticism on the character of Merlin and the various images created by artists like Burne-Jones, which contributed to the popularization of Merlin as a young, infatuated man rather than the traditional old wizard.

This section delves into the disturbing use of Merlin's image during Nazi Germany, where he was portrayed as an embodiment of ancient wisdom and power. The script discusses how Himmler and the SS used the Arthurian legends to create a spiritual and ideological center for the Nazi state, with Himmler seeing himself as a Merlin-type figure advising Hitler. The paragraph also touches on the use of Merlin in propaganda and the association of knights in armor with national identity during this dark period.

The script discusses the literary revival of Merlin in the post-war era, particularly through the works of fantasy writers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. These authors used the character of Merlin to wage a literary war against the totalitarian horrors of Nazi Germany, portraying him as a fighter for good in the battle against evil. The paragraph highlights the influence of Oxford and the discussions between Lewis and Tolkien that led to the creation of new images of Merlin as a force for good in their popular fiction.

This paragraph explores Merlin's transformation in modern culture and media, where he has become a valuable commodity and a figure that speaks to everyone. The script discusses Merlin's appearances in films, television, video games, and other forms of popular culture, highlighting his adaptability to different contexts. The paragraph also touches on the character's relevance in a world dominated by technology, where he represents a connection to nature, ancient knowledge, and the power of prophecy.

The script presents Merlin as a shaman and a connector to nature in the modern world, reflecting a shift in societal interests towards spiritualism and a connection with the natural world. Merlin is portrayed as a figure who can help people experience their own inner magic and overcome the challenges of modern life. The paragraph discusses the role of Merlin in the New Age movement and how he has become a symbol of ancient knowledge and the power of nature, adapting to the spiritual needs of contemporary society.

This final paragraph reflects on the enduring nature of Merlin's legend and its continued relevance through time. The script discusses the universal and eternal aspects of Merlin's character, which allow him to adapt and change according to the needs of society. The paragraph highlights the importance of myth in human imagination and how Merlin, as a necessary figure, embodies the essence of myth, continually reinvented and reinterpreted in various forms throughout history.