'The Sword in the Stone"
from Le Morte d' Arthur
Sir Thomas Malory
retold by Keith Baines
Before Reading: Write what you know about the following terms. If you have no prior knowledge, state that beside the term.
King Arthur
Excalibur
Merlin
Sir Launcelot
Round table
During Reading
1. Paraphrase the inscription on the anvil in modern English. (page 756)
2. Why might a sword be used as a symbol of leadership?
3. What is the significance of Arthur freeing the sword from the stone without effort or forethought?
4. How is Sir Kay a foil to Arthur's heroic character traits? (foil-a character who highlights another character's personality by displaying contrasting traits)
5. According to Arthurian legend, whom do the nobles want as king?
6. What does the behavior of the nobles indicate about the society of the time?
7. In this retelling of the legend, how is the balance of power addressed?
After Reading
8. What heroic values does this story teach? Which of these values is still important today?
9. Why does the tale have special appeal to the commoners of Arthur's time?
10. Why do you think the story of Arthur has had lasting appeal? What does the story of Arthur provide for the reader?