Merlin's role is similar to that of a man playing a game of chess, where other players are mere pawns; however his objective is ultimately unclear. This is fascinating because of the references to biblical history embedded within the text. "Then King Arthus let us send for all the children that were born on May-day, begotten of lords and born of ladies; for Merlin told the King Arthur that he should destroy him and all the land should be born on May-day. Wherefore he sent for them all, on pain of death; so there were found many lords' sons and many knights' sons, and all were sent unto the King."(31) This is painstakingly similar to the story of Moses and the mass murder of first born sons in Egypt. Merlin's influence upon life and death is almost immediate upon his introduction as he is sought out to heal the heart of King Uther. In the rare instance that Merlin claims there is nothing he can do he provides solace through his gentle words "There is no other remedy, but God will have his will. But look ye all, barons, be before King Uther tomorrow, and God and I shall make him to speak."(7) as if to equate himself God who gives life and takes it away.
"Miracles" such as the sudden appearance of the sword in the stone, Arthur being the only one to be able to remove it from the stone, retrieval of excalibur, and more are all testaments to this divine aura about Merlin as he is clearly more than a mere magician. My question is, does this challenge the interpretation we have concerning the text as an alternate interpretation of Merlin's role is presented? Is the text less medievil and more religious?
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