Comparing Merlin in Le Morte d'Arthur to Merlyn in The Once and Future King

Introduction

When comparing the portrayal of the legendary character Merlin in Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur" to T. H. White's "The Once and Future King," it is important to analyze the differences in their characterizations. Malory's Merlin is depicted as a cold and distinguished sage, while White's Merlyn is presented as a bumbling wise man who lives backwards through time. This comparison will explore which interpretation of Merlin is more believable and provide evidence from both depictions to support the analysis.

Thomas Malory's Merlin in Le Morte d'Arthur

Thomas Malory's depiction of Merlin in "Le Morte d'Arthur" portrays him as a cold and distinguished sage, providing counsel to King Arthur that can be morally difficult to follow. One notable example is Merlin's advice to Arthur to send away newborn baby boys adrift at sea, risking their lives. This decision showcases Merlin's pragmatism and the lengths he is willing to go to ensure Arthur's success. In this version, Merlin is a mysterious and enigmatic figure, operating in the shadows to shape the course of events.

T. H. White's Merlyn in The Once and Future King

T. H. White's portrayal of Merlyn in "The Once and Future King" offers a different perspective on the character. Merlyn is depicted as a wise man who lives backwards through time, experiencing events in reverse order. This unique twist allows White to explore Merlin's character in a more human way, as he grows younger and gains wisdom through his interactions with Arthur. Merlyn's bumbling nature and humorous antics make him a more relatable character to readers, adding depth to his role as Arthur's mentor and guide.

Analysis: Which Merlin is More Believable?

When comparing the two depictions of Merlin, it can be argued that White's Merlyn in "The Once and Future King" is a more believable character. By humanizing Merlin and giving him flaws and vulnerabilities, White creates a character that readers can connect with on a deeper level. Merlyn's growth and development throughout the story, as well as his quirky personality, make him a more relatable and believable figure compared to Malory's more distant and mysterious Merlin.

In conclusion, while both interpretations of Merlin offer unique perspectives on the legendary character, T. H. White's portrayal of Merlyn in "The Once and Future King" stands out as a more realistic and relatable depiction. Through his humanizing approach and nuanced character development, White brings Merlin to life in a way that resonates with readers and makes him a memorable and believable character in the Arthurian legend.

Based on the analysis provided, T. H. White's portrayal of Merlyn in "The Once and Future King" is considered a more believable character compared to Thomas Malory's Merlin in "Le Morte d'Arthur." White's humanizing approach and the relatable traits he assigns to Merlyn make him a more realistic and engaging character for readers.