Merlin's Destiny After Arthur's Death: An Examination of Different Legends

Merlin, the legendary sorcerer and advisor to King Arthur, remains a central character in numerous Arthurian legends. However, before and after the death of King Arthur, the legends vary widely in their portrayal of Merlin's fate. Let's explore the different versions and how they shape our understanding of these mythological figures.

Legends of Merlin's Fate After Arthur's Death

Depending on the version of the legend, Merlin's fate is deeply varied. Most modern interpretations of the myth have Merlin either dead or imprisoned long before Arthur's death. One of the most popular versions is that Nimue, also known as Vivian, seals him in a tree. This act is often seen as either her desire to steal his magic or her reluctance to refuse his advances. However, some contemporary interpretations view Nimue as a messenger fated to take Merlin when his duty was complete, symbolizing his transformation and transcendence.

Merlin's Fate After Arthur

According to the best-known version, Merlin is still trapped in his magic prison, effectively living in a timeless state as he watches Arthur's destiny unfold. Another version suggests he wandered to Scotland, becoming a madman who lived among animals in the woods. Here, his interactions with nature reflect the deep wisdom he gained from his experiences. Eventually, he meets a tragic end at the hands of herdsmen, adding a layer of dark irony to his story.

The Role of Merlin in "The Once and Future King"

When examining the narrative in T.H. White's "The Once and Future King," Merlyn's fate takes on a more complex and poignant dimension. Merlyn, the eccentric magician and Wart's tutor, experiences a fascinating fate that extends beyond young Wart's childhood.

Time Reversal and Lessons Learned

One of the most intriguing aspects of Merlyn's role is his ability to live backwards in time. This unique perspective allows him to impart wisdom to Wart, who transforms into various animals. Through these transformations, Merlyn teaches Wart about the nature of violence, war, and justice, setting the stage for Arthur's eventual kingship.

Love and Captivity

Merlyn meets and falls in love with the witch Nimue. Tragically, Nimue locks him in a cave for thousands of years, an enchantment that forever separates him from the world and Arthur's destiny. This enchantment acts not only as a form of punishment but also as a means of keeping Merlyn's wisdom alive long after his physical presence is lost.

Arthur's Burden and Merlyn's Legacy

Merlyn reveals to Wart that he is actually the son of Uther Pendragon, which complicates Wart's own identity. Despite his absence, Merlyn's teachings remain with Arthur throughout his tumultuous reign. This connection, though not direct, shapes Arthur's destiny in profound ways, blending myth and reality into a cohesive narrative of power and transformation.

Merlin's journey, therefore, is not just about his own existence but about the impact he has on the larger story of King Arthur. His legacy, whether through imprisonment, transformation, or love, remains a testament to the enduring nature of myth and legend.