Merlin Timeline ( Real )

creation
circa 1136

First Literary Appearance of Merlin

Merlin first appears in Geoffrey of Monmouth's 'Historia Regum Britanniae', establishing the character as a legendary figure in British folklore and literature.

literary_development
12th to 15th centuries

Merlin in Arthurian Legends Expand

Merlin becomes a central figure in Arthurian legends through medieval romances, notably in works by authors like Chrétien de Troyes and Thomas Malory.

literary_adaptation
1958

Portrayal in T.H. White's 'The Once and Future King'

Merlin is popularized in modern literature by T.H. White's 20th century work, which presents him as an eccentric and wise mentor.

media_adaptation
2008-2012

Merlin in Film and Television Adaptations

The character Merlin is widely depicted in various films and TV series, including the BBC series 'Merlin' (2008-2012), bringing him to a broad modern audience.

cultural_impact
21st century

Merlin in Popular Culture and Merchandise

Merlin becomes a popular figure in fantasy-based merchandise, games, and comics, securing his role in contemporary popular culture.

Merlin Timeline ( Fictional )

birth
circa 440 AD

Merlin's Birth

Merlin is born, possessing innate magical abilities under mysterious circumstances.

education
circa 455 AD

Apprenticeship with Ambrosius Aurelianus

Merlin becomes the apprentice of Ambrosius, learning magic and gaining wisdom about the political state of Britain.

prophecy
circa 460 AD

First Prophecy Given

Merlin delivers his first significant prophecy foretelling the rise of a great king in Albion.

advice
circa 465 AD

Advising King Vortigern

Merlin reveals the source of the disturbances in the king’s tower and advises Vortigern on how to proceed.

political_influence
circa 480 AD

Involvement in the Rise of Uther Pendragon

Merlin uses his magical influence to support Uther Pendragon's claim to the throne of Britain.

major_event
circa 485 AD

Conception of King Arthur

Merlin orchestrates the circumstances leading to Arthur's birth, ensuring the future king's lineage and destiny.

mentorship
circa 490 AD

Mentoring the Infant Arthur

Merlin secretly watches over and educates young Arthur to prepare him for leadership and destiny.

prophecy
circa 500 AD

The Sword in the Stone Prophecy

Merlin enacts the prophecy that only the true king can pull the sword from the stone, setting the stage for Arthur's ascension.

major_event
circa 501 AD

King Arthur's Coronation

Arthur is crowned king, fulfilling Merlin’s prophecy and establishing a new era in Britain.

foundation
circa 505 AD

Founding of Camelot

Merlin helps Arthur establish Camelot, a symbol of justice and unity.

advice
circa 515 AD

Advising During the Quest for the Holy Grail

Merlin provides counsel and magical aid during the knights' quest for the Holy Grail.

disappearance
circa 520 AD

Merlin's Enchantment and Disappearance

Merlin is enchanted and trapped by the Lady of the Lake or other forces, leading to his disappearance from the world of men.