King Arthur Timeline ( Real )

literary_origin
Circa 9th Century

First Written Account of King Arthur in Welsh Literature

King Arthur is first mentioned in Welsh literature, notably in the poem 'Y Gododdin' and in the 'Historia Brittonum', which attributes twelve battles to him.

literary_work
Circa 1136

Geoffrey of Monmouth's 'Historia Regum Britanniae' Published

Geoffrey of Monmouth publishes 'History of the Kings of Britain', which popularizes the legend of King Arthur and introduces many elements of the Arthurian mythos to a wider European audience.

literary_work
Late 12th Century

Chrétien de Troyes Writes Arthurian Romances

French poet Chrétien de Troyes composes several iconic Arthurian romances, including those featuring the Knights of the Round Table and the quest for the Holy Grail.

literary_work
1485

Compilation of Arthurian Legends in Thomas Malory's 'Le Morte d'Arthur'

Thomas Malory compiles and reworks the Arthurian legends into the seminal work 'Le Morte d'Arthur', which becomes the definitive English version of the stories.

cultural_impact
19th Century

Arthurian Legend Inspires Victorian Literature and Arts

The Arthurian legends experience a revival during the Victorian era, inspiring literature, poetry, paintings, and stage productions across Britain and beyond.

media_adaptation
20th Century to Present

Modern Films and Media Depict King Arthur

King Arthur's story is adapted into numerous films, television series, and other media, keeping the legend alive and introducing it to new audiences globally.

King Arthur Timeline ( Fictional )

birth
Late 5th century

Birth of Arthur

Arthur is born to Uther Pendragon and Igraine, under the care of Merlin.

artifact
Early reign, circa 500 AD

Excalibur is gifted to Arthur

Arthur receives the magical sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake as a symbol of his rightful kingship.

ascension
Circa 500 AD

Arthur pulls the sword from the stone

Arthur proves his right to the throne by pulling the enchanted sword from the stone, establishing his legitimacy as King of Britain.

institution
Early reign, circa 505 AD

Founding of the Knights of the Round Table

Arthur establishes the Round Table and gathers his knights to promote equality and unity in his kingdom.

battle
Late 520s AD

Battle of Camlann

Arthur fights Mordred in a final battle that leads to both their deaths and the fall of Camelot.

quest
During Arthur’s reign, circa 510 AD

Quest for the Holy Grail

The knights of the Round Table, including Arthur's closest companions, embark on the quest to find the Holy Grail, a sacred relic.

personal
Early in his reign, circa 505 AD

Marriage to Guinevere

Arthur marries Guinevere, who becomes queen consort and plays a pivotal role in the court's affairs.

alliance
Before Arthur's ascension, circa 495 AD

Merlin becomes Arthur's advisor

The wizard Merlin acts as Arthur's mentor and advisor, aiding him with magic and counsel.