Summary Of Edward I, Arthurian Enthusiast - 1741 Words

Roger Sherman Loomis writes ‘Edward I, Arthurian Enthusiast’ in regards to Edward I and his personal interest in the rule of Arthur; centuries before. Both rulers of England, conquers and warrior kings, their rules run a similar path, yet as stated by Loomis, it was Edward who took inspiration from Arthur. Ultimately, the thesis of this article by Loomis is whether Edward’s status as an ‘Arthurian enthusiast’ is historically viable. The author explores this debate by analysing Edward’s interest in Arthurian Romance, the concept of a round table and the presence of knights in the realm – all very grandeur and significantly visible aspects of his reign from 1239 – 1307. Upon opening this piece of work Loomis references Sir Maurice Powick,†¦show more content†¦One of the key talking points in Loomis’ work is Edwards’s study of these Arthurian romances – the first of which is from â€Å"Italian romancer Rusticiano da Pisa.† Edward travelled to Italy in the 1270’s multiple times, and as declared by Loomis, may have been in contact with the author of this romance. The appeal of the romance was prevalent across Europe, yet Edward saw the appeal to implement this fantasy into his rule; further contributing to Loomis’ claim of Edward being an Arthurian enthusiast. Another contributing factor to Loomis’ argument is the opening of Arthur and Guenevere’s tomb in Glastonbury in 1578. This act by Edward and its motive cannot be truly distinguished; though it was certainly influenced by his desire to learn more about Arthur – this desire sparked by Edward’s love for the romances. The romanticised world of Arthur was also evident within the court of Edward. Upon defeat of the Welsh and after 1279, round tables and the presence of knights were seen as the norm within Edward’s rule. Whether it be for â€Å"Arthurs prestige for political or dynastic ends† round tables were a regular occurrence, as they previously were in the rule of Arthur. Knights attended these grand occasions for â€Å"choreis et hastiludiis,† as stated by Loomis; translating to ‘dance and tournaments,’ both of which are used to portray Edward’s wealth, increase his prestige, and helped create his realm, influence d by the romanticised times of Arthur. Ultimately this