61 pages • 2 hours read
T. H. WhiteThe Once and Future King
T. H. WhiteFiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1958A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
White’s tone shifts from light and comical to serious. What are some examples of the narrative’s more humorous touches? What purpose do they serve?
Why do young Arthur’s lessons consist of observing animals? What valuable knowledge does he take from these observations that he uses as king? Choose one particular animal to focus on in depth.
What are some ways White incorporates medieval history into the narrative? What do these asides add to the story?
Why does White refer to Lancelot as “the ill-made knight?” Discuss the contrast between Lancelot’s outer façade and his inner turmoil.
What compels Arthur to propose his new form of chivalry? Discuss Merlyn’s role as well as Arthur’s youthful view of war.
How do the moral constraints of Catholicism inform the characters’ behavior? What is the novel’s overall attitude toward religion?
Discuss the novel’s portrayal of Galahad. What does that portrayal suggest about ideal goodness?
Consider Pellinore’s pursuit of the Questing Beast. How does this subplot further the novel’s themes?
How do the Orkneys—specifically Agravaine and Mordred—transform their personal grievances against Arthur and Lancelot into an ethnic one?
Drawing on traditional Arthurian lore, the novel’s title implies Arthur will one day return. How does this transform the overall meaning of the work?
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By T. H. White
