King Arthur and the Sword in the Stone: The Mystery of Merlin's Advice
Why did Merlin tell Uther that his son would have to be hidden after birth?
Options:
Option 1: He told Uther he was going to die, and the child would be killed if anyone knew about him.
Option 2: Merlin feared that Uther's enemies would kill the boy to get revenge on Uther.
Option 3: Merlin just wanted to raise the child himself.
Option 4: Merlin knew Uther would become jealous of his son and try to kill him.
Final answer:
Merlin advised Uther to hide his son after birth to protect him from Uther's enemies who would seek revenge by killing the child.
Explanation:
In the text "King Arthur and the Sword in the Stone," Merlin told Uther that his son would have to be hidden after birth because of the danger that awaited him if his identity was known. The correct answer is Option 2: Merlin feared that Uther's enemies would kill the boy to get revenge on Uther. This protective measure was a common trope in tales of ancient times, where children of great importance were often hidden away to safeguard them against political enemies or threats that sought to disrupt royal lineage or seek vengeance.
The story of King Arthur and the Sword in the Stone is filled with mystery, magic, and intrigue. One of the key moments in the tale is when Merlin advises Uther to hide his son after birth. This decision sets off a chain of events that shape the destiny of the young boy who would one day become the legendary King Arthur.
Merlin's foresight and wisdom play a crucial role in protecting the young prince from harm. By keeping Arthur's true identity a secret, Merlin ensures that the boy will have the chance to grow up safely and fulfill his destiny as the once and future king.
The theme of hidden identity and the danger of royal lineage runs deep in the Arthurian legends. It reflects the political turmoil and power struggles of the medieval era, where rival factions vied for control of the throne and would stop at nothing to eliminate potential threats to their rule.
Merlin's guidance to Uther highlights the importance of foresight and strategic thinking in times of adversity. By taking steps to protect Arthur, Merlin demonstrates his commitment to ensuring the survival of the rightful heir to the throne and preserving the future of the kingdom.