The legend of Merlin began through the words of Geoffrey of Monmouth. Merlin in most stories from the Arthurian legend is described as an older, wiser character. He is a character of magic and sorcery. He travels through the Arthurian legend acting as a mentor or guide towards King Uther and later on, King Arthur. He helps King Uther to fulfill his destiny and uphold the prophecy Merlin saw of conceiving Arthur so that one day he will be king. He helps King Arthur by guiding him through his journeys of becoming and being king with his prophecies. Merlin not only has the power to vision a prophecy of the future, but also the power of shapeshifting that comes into use when helping Uther. Merlin’s gift of prophecy helps to shape and outline the …show more content…
This is why many are scared of Merlin. In a religious view many do not see the devil, but can hear him. Everyday people are faced with choosing right or wrong, listening to the devil or listening to God/other religious figures being their subconscious in their minds. The description of an invisible figure talking to the women and then taking shape of a man, to many is the supporting evidence of it being the work of the devil. Although, throughout the stories, Merlin shows no evidence of evil. He actually shows goodness and willingness to help. Geoffrey continues on saying that his father could either be the devil or be an incubus, which is what the Greeks called daemons that are the messengers of prayers and wishes to god (Monmouth, page 129). Several people think of Merlin’s character as a paradox, he is said to be the son of the devil, but he was the servant of God (timelessmyths). In addition to this, some say that though his powers are inherited from a demon, the influence of his mother’s kindness helped to present his powers in a “positive light” (Magic in in Medieval Manuscripts). While there are many similar interpretations, there are several opposing interpretations on the character of Merlin. This is often because of his wide range of characteristics and the large amount of diverse traits that has persuaded readers to have an unknown impression of him. In the book, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, it describes Merlin as “a very clever man and he knew a lot of magic. He could change into an animal or a bird. Sometimes, when he used magic, nobody could see him. He also helped people with his magic.” He is also repeatedly introduced as “Merlin, the man of magic” throughout the novel. (King Arthur and the knights). This piece of literature portrays Merlin very positively and more as a protagonist. No one is scared of him in this story. He is actually