Marion Zimmer Bradley’s 1982 book retelling the Arthurian legend from the perspective of the women of Camelot has reappeared in the bookstores thanks to an American TV movie being aired this week on TNT. I first read this book about ten years ago and re-read it completely through a second time. I still occasionally pick it up when I notice on the shelf and read bits. This book is no beach or weekend read. It is a richly detailed story of more than 800 pages. It is slow in some parts but worth getting through them to understand the whole story.
The Mists of Avalon portrays the rise and eventual fall of Camelot as a struggle between the old Druid ways-nature and goddess oriented and the new Christian way. Avalon is an island that is the center of the old ways-a secret and magical place. It’s very existence is threatened as the people move from the old ways. Vivianne-the Lady of the Lake and High Priestess of Avalon, in concert with Merlin, tries to preserve the old ways through magic. Her two sisters Igraine (who is to become Arthur’s mother) and Morgause are key players in the plan. Vivianne takes Igraine’s daughter Morgaine to Avalon and schools her in the ways of the Goddess. As the story progresses Morgaine represents the old ways and Gwenhwyfar(welch spelling of Guinnevere) the new Christian ways.
The essential elements of the legend are intact. There are some interesting additions that I had not found in other versions of King Arthur. For instance, Lancelot, in this version is the child of Vivianne. Also, Morgause, jealous of her sister, the high priestess is the one who raises Mordred(the child of Morgaine and Arthur) to destroy Camelot. This version delves much more into the feelings and motivations of the characters. The settings, including battles are vividly drawn.
This is a must read for those fascinated with the Arthurian legend or fantasy. Also, a warning-I saw the 1st half of the TV version last night. Much is omitted so don’t judge whether you might like the book by the movie.