It is rare that a story can span generations, the test of time, and still impact every person that reads it in a very unique and moving way. The story of King Arthur is the perfect example of such a literary device. King Arthur, as most of you know, is of a legendary British leader who according to medieval histories and romances led the British to defeat the Saxon invaders in the early 6th century. This whimsical coming of age story of King Arthur began to spread across Britain in the form of tales and poems that were told for entertainment. Since the story is composed of fantasy, the legitimacy of its historical relevance is often debated but its mystical and enchanting story has truly entertained generations of people.
Many literary adaptations have been made of the original story. Alfred Lord Tennyson, Mark Twain, and poet William Morris have all written pieces based on the story and themes of King Arthur. Several movie adaptations both on the large and small screen have also made quite a debut. Movies as Excalibur, Legend of King Arthur, and my personal favorite, The Sword In The Stone have entertained audiences in the past several decades.
I believe this story has had such an impact because both young and old, those in the 12th century and the 21st century have the ability to relate to the rags to riches story that King Arthur provides. It is also malleable to fit different audiences but still keep the same theme and moral value. Literature in itself has a magical power about it, but added to the magic of the tale of King Arthur, I believe that this story will never go out of style and will continue to touch generations to come.