Eleanor Janega On The Dark Origins Of King Arthur

Watch this full episode of After Dark with Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling where they chat about the King Arthur myth, Merlin's sordid origins, and the history of Camelot. Real or not, there are some real questionable characters involved.

Explore how the myth evolved from a 6th-century Welsh story into a European phenomenon, an epic story with a rotating cast of characters like Lancelot, Guinevere, and Morgan le Fay. Joined by historian Eleanor Janega, they delve into the darker side of Arthuriana, from the transactional nature of courtly love to the complex and often tragic roles of women. The discussion also uncovers the real-world significance of magical objects like Excalibur and the Holy Grail, revealing what these legendary tales tell us about the medieval world and Britain's national identity.

00:00 - The 'Extended Universe' of King Arthur
05:06 - Lancelot, Guinevere & The Rules of Courtly Love
12:35 - The Real History Behind the Myth of Camelot
19:55 - Merlin's Demonic Origins & The Sword in the Stone
28:41 - The Tragic Story of Queen Guinevere
33:46 - King Arthur's Enduring Legacy in British History

After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast.

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