The Once and Future King

The Once and Future King

The Once and Future King by T.H. White has a theme which consists of being true to yourself and your beliefs. Many characters and events in this book reinforce this idea and portray it as the main lesson. Readers are affected by learning important life-lessons throughout each chapter and book.

Readers learn in the beginning that Arthur strongly believes in keeping his word. Even in Book I, when Arthur was a child, he refused to leave Hob's hawk, Cully, in the forest. This was because he did not want to betray Hob's trust. There are several other times in the story in which Arthur shows the personal importance keeping his word to others, and this shows that he is staying true to his beliefs over time. It's very important to me that people keep their promises, because you will never be able to trust or rely on that person if they don't.

Arthur, as king, also thinks that it is important to enforce justice. Arthur learns and takes into belief that "Might is Right" . Arthur uses this belief to form and run the Round Table. This is another thing of importance in my life because fairness is imperative for a good society. Today's courtrooms use methods of fairness that were modeled is Arthur's Round Table. Although, this idea of fairness and honesty can also make for difficult or uncomfortable situations; such as Arthur and the fact that Guenever and Lancelot were in love. Arthur eventually realizes he must do what is just, as his beliefs tell him, and punish Guenever.

Lancelot also has many adventures in the novel that shows that he stays true to himself and his beliefs. He has many quests and struggles to achieve and maintain holiness. It is important to Lancelot that he be kind, loyal, and respectful. These traits are portrayed by his idolization of Arthur throughout the entire book. His religion also plays a major role in his life, giving him something to work towards. This idea of being a good person also applies to my life because it is ultimately what I strive to achieve.