The Truth of Arthur: Created Truths and Narrative Impact in Medieval Literature and Modern…

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Through a study of the development of Arthurian literature and the impactful status of the traditions key characters, this course will seek to form an understanding of how truth was created and transmitted in the popular literature of the Middle Ages. It will move away from suppositions on the factuality behind myths and legends and instead focus on what effect fictitious literature may have on the real world. We will look at this effect in its medieval context and beyond; in how narrative effects the presentation of the medieval in our own contemporary moment, and how narrative is utilized to promote specific ideas. Our readings will move from the first mention of Arthur by name, through his introduction into pseudo-histories, the changes introduced by the romantic continuations, and into galvanization of the tradition by writers such as Malory, Tennyson, and White. Additionally, we will utilize medieval historical writings which are informed by, or reveal an interest in, Arthuriana to analyze the legends impact outside of fiction and foster interdisciplinary practices. ?