Mandi’s 6 Favorite Arthurian Knights in Literature

The Knights of the Round Table have fascinated historians and Romantics for centuries. The stories themselves are full of love, magic, chivalry, and heartbreak. The Knights are figures of great romance and adventure, and the legends surrounding Arthur and his knights have shifted as different cultures have taken on the legend. However, the ability to fall in love with these knights remain the same. Here are my personal favorite knights from Arthurian legends.

Gawain

If there was ever a Gawain fan club, I would definitely be a member. Gawain was a most gallant knight who was forever faithful to Arthur. In one legend, his love broke Ragnelle’s curse and made her look human again. He even brought down the Green Knight and was there for Arthur at the end. For a good take on Gawain’s adventures, I recommend In Camelot’s Shadow by Sarah Zettel.

Arthur

The King himself is the epitome chivalry and honor. He protected Camelot and did his best to always do the right thing. It was a broken heart that got him in the end. Arthur went from a simple boy to the king with Excalibur. His honor was never disputed. It is said that Arthur will return again when there is need of him.

Tristan

The story of Isolde and Tristan is legendary like that of Romeo and Juliet. Tristan loved her with all his heart and still kept his honor. He died of a misunderstanding and broken heart. He was still a good Knight, despite his tragic love life, and was loyal to his heart in all things. A good and less tragic twist on the Tristan and Isolde legend is a trilogy by Rosalinde Miles.

Percival

There is nothing more chivalrous than being involved in finding the Holy Grail. Percival was a gallant knight who wanted to help Arthur achieve his quest. He was also always devoted to Camelot. His personality was portrayed as being gentle and kind in most legends. I don’t think anyone ever questioned his chivalrous nature.

Gareth

Gareth’s devotion to both Camelot and Lynette were amazing. He won her heart with this kind nature and persistence. Arthur trusted him as much as he did Gawain. His bravery even led him to defeat the Red Knight. While Gareth isn’t as well known as other knights, he should be.

Galahad

Galahad is considered the purest of all Arthur’s Knights. Only he could be blessed by the Holy Grail’s power. In some legends, Galahad is the son of Lancelot and Elaine of Astalot. He had plenty of noble blood running through his veins and rescued plenty of maidens during his quests as well.

Lancelot is not one of my favorites and, therefore, did not make my list. Although he is a highly lauded and romantic figure, he wasn’t a good man (in the legend that is). He had an affair with his King and best friend’s wife. He broke Elaine of Astalot’s heart to the point of death. Not to mention that Lancelot’s actions indirectly led to the fall of Camelot. The only depiction I’ve ever liked of him is Ioan Gruffud’s version in King Arthur. Overall, these knights stole my heart in one way or another. They were mostly good men and excellent knights.

Who is your favorite Arthurian knight? Do you have a favorite film or TV interpretation? Sound off in the comments…

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