In "The Once and Future King," T.H. White weaves a spellbinding tale of King Arthur's rise to power, blending whimsy with profound philosophical insights. Through the eyes of a young Wart, we explore themes of justice, fate, and the complexities of human nature as he undergoes transformative adventures alongside memorable characters like Merlin and Guinevere. The story unfolds uniquely, from whimsical encounters with anthropomorphic animals to epic battles that challenge the very notion of chivalry. As Arthur's idealism clashes with the harsh realities of his kingdom, readers are left questioning the true meaning of leadership and legacy. Immerse yourself in this enchanting retelling of Arthurian legend, where every turn reveals deeper truths about courage, sacrifice, and the hope of a world reborn.
By T. H. White
Published: 2011
"The best thing for being sad, replied Merlin, "is to learn something.""
T. H. White’s masterful retelling of the saga of King Arthur is a fantasy classic as legendary as Excalibur and Camelot, and a poignant story of adventure, romance, and magic that has enchanted readers for generations. Once upon a time, a young boy called “Wart” was tutored by a magician named Merlyn in preparation for a future he couldn’t possibly imagine. A future in which he would ally himself with the greatest knights, love a legendary queen and unite a country dedicated to chivalrous values. A future that would see him crowned and known for all time as Arthur, King of the Britons. During Arthur’s reign, the kingdom of Camelot was founded to cast enlightenment on the Dark Ages, while the knights of the Round Table embarked on many a noble quest. But Merlyn foresaw the treachery that awaited his liege: the forbidden love between Queen Guenever and Lancelot, the wicked plots of Arthur’s half-sister Morgause and the hatred she fostered in Mordred that would bring an end to the king’s dreams for Britain—and to the king himself. “[The Once and Future King] mingles wisdom, wonderful, laugh-out-loud humor and deep sorrow—while telling one of the great tales of the Western world.”—Guy Gavriel Kay
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“The best thing for being sad, replied Merlin, "is to learn something."”
The Once and Future King
By T. H. White
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
T. H. White was an English author best known for his novels that weave elements of fantasy, mythology, and Arthurian legend. Born on May 29, 1906, in Bombay, India, he later moved to England, where he became a prominent figure in 20th-century literature. His most acclaimed work, "The Once and Future King," is a reinterpretation of the Arthurian tales that explores themes of power, morality, and human nature. In addition to his literary contributions, White was an avid animal lover and a passionate advocate for animal rights, which influenced his writing and personal philosophy. He passed away on January 17, 1964, but his works continue to inspire readers and writers alike.
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