A study of the origins of the Arthurian story in Welsh history and folklore and a survey of its development and transformations in the romance literature of England and the Continent, from Chr#tien de Troyes to Thomas Malory, circa 1100-1500. We will pay special attention to the ways in which British/English nationalism, Celtic magic, French courtly values (those connected with love and chivalry in particular), and Christian morality combine and recombine to produce ever new meaning in familiar elements of the plot: Arthur's birth and establishment as king, the fellowship and adventures of his followers, the adulterous love triangle, the Quest for the Holy Grail, and, finally, Arthur's death. Requirements: two 5- to 7-page papers and a final exam. Prerequisite: English 101. (Pre-1800)