An Arthurian Hero

            King Arthur acts as a perfect example of a traditional hero. A traditional hero usually has a father who is king, a weapon that is special, and a child who is evil. When a traditional hero dies, their body is never entombed and they are expected to return one day.  Arthur’s father, King Uthor Pendragon, is the king of Camelot. When Uthor dies, Arthur takes over his throne after pulling a sword from stone. Arthur’s weapon, Excalibur has a scabbard that grants him the ability to never be killed. This sword is given to him by theLady of the Lake. Later on, Arthur’s son, Mordred, goes against him and takes over his kingdom. He learns thatLancelot is involved with Queen Gwenevere and he leaves for France. While in France, his illegitimate son, Mordred, seizes control of England. Arthur dies while fighting Mordred and his body is “put in [a] barge, [and pushed] into the vale of Avilion” (Malory 183). Arthur is rumored to return one day in England’s darkest hour. Many believe “that he shall come again, and he shall win the Holy Cross” (Malory 184). King Arthur lives and dies as a traditional hero.