Thomas Malory
Thomas Malory: The Father of Arthurian Legend
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Thomas Malory was a 15th-century English writer best known for his work "Le Morte d'Arthur", a retelling of the legend of King Arthur. He is also sometimes referred to as Thomas Malo or Thomas de Malore.
Birth and Death Dates
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Malory's birth date is not precisely known, but it is estimated to be around 1405-1410 in Warwickshire, England. Unfortunately, his exact death date remains a mystery; the last recorded mention of him dates back to 1467, after which he disappears from historical records.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Malory was an English knight, writer, and translator who served during the Wars of the Roses (1455-1487). His nationality is British, specifically from Warwickshire. As a member of the nobility, Malory was well-educated in literature, history, and languages.
Early Life and Background
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Malory's early life remains somewhat shrouded in mystery. Some accounts suggest he may have been born into a minor noble family, while others speculate that he might have risen through the ranks due to his military prowess or literary talents. One known fact is that Malory was educated at Oxford University and later became a member of King Edward IV's court.
Major Accomplishments
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Malory's most notable achievement lies in his creation of "Le Morte d'Arthur", an epic poem retelling the legend of King Arthur, one of England's greatest heroes. The work is considered a masterpiece of medieval literature and has had a profound impact on Western culture.
Notable Works or Actions
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While "Le Morte d'Arthur" remains Malory's most famous work, he was also a prolific writer and translator who contributed to various other literary endeavors. Some notable works include "The Tale of King Arthur and His Knights" (a precursor to his magnum opus) and translations from French and Italian sources.
Impact and Legacy
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Malory's influence on literature cannot be overstated. "Le Morte d'Arthur" has inspired countless adaptations, including books, plays, films, and even modern-day interpretations in music and art. Malory's work helped shape the Arthurian legend into its current form, which has captivated audiences for centuries.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Malory is widely remembered for his pivotal role in shaping Western literature through "Le Morte d'Arthur". His writing not only immortalized King Arthur's story but also reflected the cultural and historical contexts of 15th-century England, providing valuable insights into medieval society.
His works have had a lasting impact on writers, artists, and thinkers across various disciplines. As a testament to his enduring influence, Malory continues to be studied, admired, and referenced by scholars, readers, and creatives worldwide.
Malory's legacy transcends the literary world; it extends to our collective imagination, shaping how we perceive heroism, chivalry, and the human experience. His work serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to transcend time and inspire generations.
Quotes by Thomas Malory
Miracles do not happen:“ – ’t is plain sense, If you italicize the present tense; But in those days, as rare old Chaucer tells, All Britain was fulfilled of miracles. So, as I said, the great doors opened wide. In rushed a blast of winter from outside, And with it, galloping on the empty air, A great green giant on a great green mare.
But she pursued them through their tangled lair And caught them, and put fire-flies in their hair; And then they all joined hands, and round and round They danced a morris on the moonlit ground.
And therein were many knights and squires to behold, scaffolds and pavilions; for there upon the morn should be a great tournament: and the lord of the tower was in his castle and looked out at a window, and saw a damosel, a dwarf, and a knight armed at all points.
When she saw him come nigh, she said, Away, kitchen knave, out of the wind, for the smell of thy bawdy clothes grieveth me.
Laugh if you will, My queen, but let me be a woman still. You fairies love where love is wise and just; We mortal women love because we must:.
O Merlin”, said Arthur, “Here hadst thou been slain for all thy crafts had I not been.” “Nay,” said Merlin, “Not so, for I could save myself an I would; and thou art more near thy death than I am, for thou goest to the deathward, an God be not thy friend.
Nowadays men cannot love seven night but they must have all their desires: that love may not endure by reason; for where they be soon accorded and hasty, heat soon it cooleth. Right so fareth love nowadays, soon hot soon cold: this is no stability. But the old love was not so.
The joy of love is too short, and the sorrow thereof, and what cometh thereof, dureth over long.