Arthurian legend can be dense and obstruse. There are many iterations and interpretations. However, some of the retellings stand tall. Alfred, Lord Tennyson‘s version is one of the tallest. And yet, it is a rather difficult read for those uninitiated. In this Idylls of the King summary and analysis, we will explore this work.

Summary of “Idylls of the King”

“The Idylls of the King” is a cycle of poems (twelve to be exact) by Alfred, Lord Tennyson—a 1800s poet and creative genius—and the cycle tells the tale of King Arthur’s attempt to “elevate” mankind. As stated by some sources, Tennyson’s retelling adopted dominant source materials.

The epic is “Based largely on Sir Thomas Malory’s Le Morte Darthur.” And, the story covers Arthur’s lifetime. This story starts “from his first encounter with Guinevere … to his final battle with Mordred” (Britannica). The poem focuses on Arthur, his knights, and the quest for the holy grail. Likewise, it addresses “numerous minor characters,” and themes.

The sections follow through in this order:

• The Coming of Arthur
• Gareth and Lynette
• Enid
• The Marriage of Geraint
• Geraint and Enid                
• Balin and Balan
• Merlin and Vivien
• Lancelot and Elaine
• The Holy Grail
• Pelleas and Ettare
• The Last Tournament
• Guinevere
• The Passing of Arthur
• To the Queen

Analysis

Tennyson’s Idylls of the King tackles a major theme in Arthurian legend: human nature. This particular theme comes from the ideals Arthur’s hopes and dreams, and the city of Camelot. As Tennyson wrote this during the Victorian era, the ideals of the age are present. The ideas of justice, honor, and goodness are sacred in this text. However, sin and the eventuality of mankind always come through in the end. As such, Lancelot’s betrayal and Arthur’s incest-child Mordred are here in the text.

Furthermore, the work deals with chivalry (honor), duty, and redemption. Only through the knight’s code could Camelot be founded. With that said, the failures of the knights through love and battle prevent this complete duty to king and crown. Nevertheless, there is repentance all around, as fell characters remerge. Guinevere seeks solace in life and Lancelot comes to Arthur’s aid. Even Arthur continues his belief in Camelot in death.

Conclusion

Tennyson’s “Idylls of the King” is an incredible work. It details the rise and fall of Arthur and uses some modern conventions to tell the story. As such, before venturing forth, knowing some of the fundamentals of the story before engaging with it is beneficial.