This text relies heavily on the concept of fate and prophecy. In the beginning, Merlin offers a prophetic glimpse into Britain’s political future. Towards the end, King Hoel reminds us that the prophecies declare that the Roman Empire shall be held by “three persons, natives of Britain.” What does this emphasis on prophecy tell us about Geoffrey of Monmouth’s possible motivations for writing this piece? Why is it so important that Arthur is a king who has been anticipated by prophecies, or that the British conquests have been told by an oracle?

How did these two texts challenge or reinforce your previous ideas about life, the world, or society during King Arthur’s reign? Use references to places where the text either surprised you or echoed traditional thinking about the “Dark Ages.”

What does reading these 4 texts (from the 6th, 8th, 12th, and 14th centuries) suggest to you about the context in which stories of King Arthur developed? Be specific in your references, demonstrating what gave you the impression you got.