The Complex Hatred of Mordred towards King Arthur: A Revisitation of the Arthurian Legend

The enigmatic figure of Mordred, the antagonist in the Arthurian legends, is often portrayed as an eternal enemy of King Arthur. His hatred and eventual betrayal have been the subject of numerous interpretations and analyses. This article delves into the deeper roots of Mordred's animosity, examining various factors that contributed to his conflict with the legendary king.

The Hatred Unfolding

Mordred's hatred and subsequent betrayal of King Arthur is rooted in a complex mix of personal grievances, ambition, fate, manipulation, and personal desires. This multifaceted enmity is a central theme in the Arthurian narratives, illustrating the deep-seated complexity of human motivations and the tragic consequences of noble ambition.

Illegitimacy and Betrayal

One of the key factors contributing to Mordred's conflict with King Arthur is his illegitimate status. In numerous versions of the legend, Mordred is the son of King Arthur and his half-sister Morgause, resulting in a profound sense of rejection and a deep-seated resentment towards his father. This illegitimacy often leads to his portrayal as a figure of illegitimate authority, striving to claim his rightful place within the royal lineage.

While some illegitimate children have ascended to throne throughout history, this was not a common practice, especially in a era dominated by Christian beliefs which discouraged such unions. The lack of acknowledgment from King Arthur, combined with the absence of a legitimate heir through Guinevere, only heightened Mordred's sense of betrayal and ambition to claim the throne.

Ambition and Power

Mordred's hunger for power and his ambition to rule are significant contributors to his betrayal. His desire for the throne is often seen as a reaction to the perceived obstacles he faces. As a bastard, Mordred felt overshadowed by the legitimate heir through Guinevere, making him see King Arthur as not only an obstacle but also a threat to his own aspirations. This sense of insecurity and injustice further fueled his ambition to overthrow the king and seize the crown.

Fate and Prophecy

Prophecies and a sense of destiny also played a crucial role in Mordred's actions. Many versions of the legend include prophecies that foretell Mordred's ultimate betrayal and downfall. This belief in fate can drive a character to fulfill a prophecy, believing that their actions are both inevitable and unavoidable. However, this sense of destiny is often ambiguous, blurring the lines between personal choice and inevitable fate.

Manipulation by Others

Several narratives depict Mordred as being manipulated by other characters, such as Morgan le Fay or other adversaries of Arthur. These manipulators exploit his feelings of betrayal and resentment, turning him against the king. The duality of Mordred's character, a combination of self-determination and external influence, adds another layer of complexity to his actions.

Conflict over Guinevere

Mordred's hatred is not solely driven by his ambition for power. His desire for Queen Guinevere, King Arthur's wife, adds a personal dimension to his betrayal. This love or lust intertwines personal desire with political ambition, further complicating the narrative. The competition for Guinevere's affections and the desire for reconciliation with the wife of the man who rejected him serve as the final straw in his betrayal.

Tragic Consequences

The climax of Mordred's betrayal often involves a tragic confrontation, typically depicted as a battle at Camelot or the Isle of Avalon, leading to the deaths of both Mordred and King Arthur. The themes of betrayal, fate, and the tragic consequences of ambition are central to the story, highlighting the human costs of noble aspirations.

Conclusion: A Revisit of T.H. White’s Interpretation

I have always found the explanation given in T.H. White’s “The Once and Future King” to be particularly logical and compelling. Mordred's resentment towards King Arthur stems from his illegitimate birth and the lack of acknowledgment from his father. Arthur’s deliberate choice to name a legitimate heir created a profound sense of injustice for Mordred, fueling his deep-seated ambition. This version of the character emphasizes the human, relatable aspects of Mordred’s struggle, making his betrayal all the more tragic and resonant.

The complexity of Mordred's hatred towards King Arthur is a testament to the richness and depth of the Arthurian legends. Whether through personal grievances, ambition, fate, or manipulation, the story of these two figures continues to captivate audiences, offering insights into the human condition and the often tragic consequences of noble ambition.