1.cdn.edl.io Web viewisland of Great Britain. When the Roman legions withdrew, the many local tribal kingdoms of England began to fight one another to become the new dominate force

Le Morte d’Arthur VERSION 8

Parts

1 Slideshow Creator Anya

2 Narrator (Kenneth) [26 lines] Kenneth

3 Merlin [15 lines] Josh

4 King Uther Pendragon [8 lines] Luigi (also Arthur’s knight)

5 Duke of Tintigil [ 0 lines] Jace

6 Sir Brastius, Duke’s knight [4 lines] Jace (also Enemy King’s knight)

7 Igraine [7 lines] Haley (also Enemy King’s knight)

8 Sir Ulfius [4 lines] Noah

9 Sir Ector [11 lines] Nicholas

10 Sir Kay, son of Ector [6 lines] Marynna

11 King Arthur [20 lines] TJ

12 Archbishop of Canterbury [11 lines] Elena

13 King Lot of Lothian [9 lines] Robert

14 King Uryens of Gore [9 lines] Jimmy

15 King Nentres of Garlot [8 lines] Glenn

16 Commoner 1 [7 lines] Justin

17 Commoner 2 [5 lines] Maddie

18 Commoner 3 [4 lines] Gurleen

Adapted by Mr. Trapasso from Malory’s Le Morte d’Arthur, a prose rendition by Keith Baines, with minor additions from other versions of King Arthur.

SCENE 1:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 1] Around the year 400 of the Common Era the great Roman Empire suffered from many problems and in response began to give up control of its northern most territory on the island of Great Britain. When the Roman legions withdrew, the many local tribal

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kingdoms of England began to fight one another to become the new dominate force. Adding to the confusion, other tribes from the mainland of Europe such as the Saxons of Denmark and Germany began to invade Britain to drive out the local tribes and take over their fertile fields, thick forests, and beautiful open country. The British Isle was set afire with ceaseless warfare and sunk into a dark age of decline and destruction.

Eventually, one tribe from Southern England, the Britons, arose to become one of the most powerful forces in the land. Under the leadership of King Uther Pendragon, the Britons began to beat back the invading Saxons. Through a series of great battles, King Uther defeated the Saxons and gained control once again over all the southern lands around their homeland in London and Camelot. Then, King Uther set out to defeat the remaining warring tribes and claim his right to rule the entire British Island and restore peace once again.

SCENE 2:

[ENTER Side Merlin; Archimedes appears on the back screen] Merlin (Josh) [line 1]The time has finally come, Archimedes. I have waited for more than a hundred long years to play my role to help these poor creatures, these stumbling, half-blind humans. [Archimedes whoos; Merlin chuckles] I know, I know. My mother Princess Dyfed was a human. She told me my father was a heavenly angel, but others said he was a pagan forest sprite or even the devil himself. Whatever he was, he has made me what I am, a half-human, half-spirit, who see far beyond the eyes of mortal humans. [Archimedes whoos]

So now the long-prophesied events are about to unfold. I will do my best to help these poor Britons with the help of the prophesied king who is still unborn. Together, we can stop the noblemen’s endless, greedy, bloodthirsty wars to dominate each other’s land and enslave the commoners. Humankind can finally move beyond the idea that “might makes right” and discover the beautiful life that lies beyond. [Archimedes whoos] Now is the time, Archimedes! Now is the time![Archimedes whoos; EXIT Merlin side]

SCENE 3:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 2] After several years of battle, Uther Pendragon, King of the Britons, had succeeded in defeated most of the warring tribes of Greater Britain and restoring peace to the

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country. However, the Duke of Tintagil from the region of Cornwall would not submit to King Uther’s rule, and the two leaders engaged in battle for many months.

[ENTER Side: Duke of Tintagil, Igraine; ENTER Back King Uther, Sir Ulfius] Then one day King Uther heard reports of the great beauty and grace of the duke’s wife, the Lady Igraine. Upon hearing these words, as if by some unseen enchantment, something mysterious stirred inside the great warrior. He was soon compelled to act. He called a truce to discuss ending his war with the Duke of Tintagil and invited the duke and Igraine to his court. After discussions with their advisors, King Uther formally reconciled with the duke and agreed to end their hostilities.

During a great feast to celebrate their peace, King Uther was struck hard by the Lady Igraine’s beauty and intelligence, and grew passionately desirous of her. After the meal ended, King Uther arranged to have a few words alone with Igraine.

King Uther (Luigi) [line 1] Lady Igraine, I must confess, I had heard glowing words of your character and unsurpassed beauty before we met. Yet, those words are hollow in comparison to being with you in the flesh. You have ignited a mysterious fire in me that will not be quenched until you have agreed to become my Queen. I most humbly beg of you, please, captivating Igraine, join me at my side and become mine.

Igraine (Haley) [line 1] My liege, King Uther, you flatter me with your words. But of course, you understand that beauty would not be beauty if she threw away loyalty. I already belong to my husband, the Duke of Tintagil. Therefore, I must gently and graciously decline your offer.

[EXIT Side: King Uther, Sir Ulfius] Narrator (Kenneth) [line 3]Igraine took leave of the King, who withdrew to his chambers with a heavy heart. Later, in the privacy of their room, Igraine recounted to her husband the Duke her unsettling encounter with King Uther. The Duke was outraged. Igraine suggested that they leave at once, without warning.[EXIT Side: Duke of Tintagil, Igraine]

SCENE 4:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 4]So, in the middle of the night they secretly left the castle and fled to their home. The next morning when King Uther learned of Igraine’s flight he was enraged and

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immediately sent word to the duke and Igraine that they could expect to be dragged from their castle within six weeks.

[ENTER Side King Uther, Sir Ulfius as narrator speaks] The Duke manned and provisioned his two strongest fortresses: the Castle Tintagil for Igraine and the Castle Terrabyl, with its excellent defenses, for himself. Soon King Uther arrived with a huge army and laid siege to Terrabyl; but despite the intensity of the fighting and the numerous casualties suffered by both sides, neither was able to win a decisive victory. Still enraged, and now despairing, King Uther fell sick. His friend Sir Ulfius came to his aid.

Sir Ulfius (Noah) [line 1]My liege, what is the matter? Why has gotten you into this state?

King Uther (Luigi) [line 2] My fever is from the incomparable Igraine. She has enflamed my heart, and unless I can win her, I shall never recovery.

Sir Ulfius (Noah) [line 2]Sire, surely Merlin the Prophet could find some means to help you? I will go in search of him.

[Ulfius turns to exit, but is stopped at the side door by Merlin] Sir Ulfius (Noah) [line 3]Hideous beggar, how did you get past the guards? Get out of my way.

[ENTER Side Merlin] Merlin (Josh) [line 2]But it is I who you seek. Do you not recognize me? I am Merlin.

King Uther (Luigi) [line 3] Mysterious Prophet, please, come. We are honored to have you as our guest.

Merlin (Josh) [line 3]Sire, I know that you are stricken by a powerful love for Igraine and that nothing can stop it. As an anointed King, if I make her yours, will you swear to give into my care the child she bears you?

King Uther (Luigi) [line 4] If you can make her mine, I swear on the Holy Gospel, that I will do as you ask. Our first-born child shall be yours.

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Merlin (Josh) [line 4]Very good. Tonight, you shall appear before Igraine at Tintagil in the likeness of her husband, the duke. Sir Ulfius and I will appear as two of the duke’s knights, Sir Brastius and Sir Jordanus. Do not speak with either Igraine or her men, but say that you are sick and retire to bed immediately. I will fetch you early in the morning.

SCENE 5: Narrator (Kenneth) [line 5]The plan unfolded just as Merlin said. When King Uther, Ulfius, and Merlin rode up to the castle Tintagil in the dead of night, the magical glamour that Merlin cast made them appear to all as the Duke of Tintagil and his two knights Brastius and Jordanus. They were quickly admitted into the castle and Uther as the duke went straight away to his bed. Igraine was completely deceived by Merlin’s spell. She was so surprised and delighted to see her husband the duke arrive unexpectedly at her castle in the deep silence of the night. That night their child Arthur was conceived. King Uther gave Igraine a farewell kiss and left her at dawn as soon as Merlin appeared. [Pause as EXIT Back: Uther, Merlin, Ulfius]

SCENE 6: [ENTER Side: Duke’s knight, Sir Brastius]Narrator (Kenneth) [line 6]Later that morning one of the Duke of Tintagil’s knights galloped up to the castle in a panicked state and was immediately brought in to see Lady Igraine.

Duke’s knight, Sir Brastius (Jace) [line 1]My Lady Igraine.

Igraine (Haley) [line 2] What is it, knight? What desperate news do you so breathlessly bring?

Duke’s knight, Sir Brastius (Jace) [line 2]My lady. Just after sundown yesterday, King Uther Pendragon was seen riding away from his men’s siege of the duke’s castle Terrabyl. The duke thought this a good time for a surprise attack. However, most unfortunately, he was grievously wounded and died during the assault.

Igraine (Haley) [line 3] What? No. How can this be?

Duke’s knight, Sir Brastius (Jace) [line 3]

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I am so sorry, my Lady. But it is so.

Igraine (Haley) [line 4] At what hour did he die? Tell me exactly!

Duke’s knight, Sir Brastius (Jace) [line 4]It was within the hour after sunset, when there was still a faint light in the western sky.

Igraine (Haley) [line 5] [Speaking aside to herself] But how can this be? For just two hours ago at sunrise this morning did he leave me.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 7]When Igraine realized that the duke had died three or more hours before he appeared to her, she was greatly disturbed in mind. However, she confided in no one.

SCENE 5:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 8]Once it was known that the duke was dead, King Uther’s nobles urged him to reconcile with Igraine and give up his war against the dukedom of Tintagil. Going a step further, King Uther proposed that to ensure a lasting peace he and the lovely Lady Igraine should be married. All were delighted at the wonderful idea. They sent Sir Uflius to present these offers to the Lady Igraine. Ulfius soon returned with the news that the Lady Igraine had accepted King Uther’s proposal. The marriage of King Uther and Igraine was celebrated joyously thirteen days later, and then, for the time, after many years of war, a calm settled over the realm of the Britons.

A few months later it was seen that Igraine was with child, and one night, King Uther asked her a startling question.

King Uther (Luigi) [line 5]My dearest Igraine, I am so glad to see you healthy and growing full with child. Yet, I wonder, who the father might be?

[Igraine looks greatly abashed, and reacts silently]

King Uther (Luigi) [line 6] Do not look so dismayed, but tell me the truth and I swear I shall love you the better for it.

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Igraine (Haley) [line 6] My liege, the truth is that the night the duke died, about three hours after his death, a man rode up to my castle who was the exact image of the duke. With him came two others who appeared to be Sir Brastius and Sir Jordanus. Naturally I thought this man was my husband and that night, I swear, this child was conceived.

King Uther (Luigi) [line 7] Well spoken! It was I who impersonated the duke, so rest at ease. The child is mine.

Igraine (Haley) [line 7] My wily liege, I cannot tell you how greatly relieved I am to hear this news. I am overjoyed to discover that the father of my child is now my husband!

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 9]Then Uther told Igraine the story of how Merlin had arranged it, and all that had happened that fateful night. Igraine was astonished by the powers of Merlin, her husband’s ancient advisor. [EXIT Back Igraine; then ENTER Side Merlin] Sometime later Merlin himself appeared before the king.

Merlin (Josh) [line 5]Sire, you know that you must provide for the upbringing of your unborn child.

King Uther (Luigi) [line 8] I will do as you advise.

Merlin (Josh) [line 6]Sire, listen to what I have seen. Your child is destined for glory. I want him brought to me for his baptism. I shall then give him into the care of foster parents who can be trusted to protect him and not to reveal his identity. Sir Ector would be suitable. He is a good-hearted soul and extremely loyal.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 10]Sir Ector was summoned and gladly agreed to the king’s request. When the child was born, all was kept secret. He was taken to Merlin and baptized by a priest with the name of Arthur. Then he was brought to Sir Ector, whose wife cared for the child as her own.

SCENE 6:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 11]

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Two years later King Uther fell sick. He lay unable to move and speechless for three days and nights. Then, King Uther gave up the ghost. He was buried and mourned the next day, as befitted his rank, by Igraine and the nobility of Britain.

During the years that followed the death of King Uther, while Arthur was still a child, the ambitious noblemen fought one another for the throne. Once again, war engulfed Britain as the nobles each struggled to become supreme.

Finally, the time arrived. Merlin went to advise the Archbishop of Canterbury, the highest representative of the Catholic Church in England, on how to end the chaos. Then, the Archbishop summoned the nobility to London’s greatest church on Christmas Day to hear an important announcement.

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 1]Noblemen of Britain, the next King of Britain will soon be miraculously revealed. [Noblemen react with murmurs]Here in front of all assembled, the Divine Himself will determine who is the rightful king of Britain. Look there.[Noblemen react with murmurs]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 12]Suddenly, in the churchyard appeared a most unusual sight. There stood a marble block of stone that had a steel anvil struck into it. Then, passing through both the anvil and stone was an exquisite sword. The anvil was inscribed with letters of gold.

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 2]Noblemen, let me read the words emblazoned here. “WHOSO PULLETH OUT THIS SWORD OF THIS STONE AND ANVIL IS RIGHTWISE KING BORN OF ALL BRITAIN.” [Noblemen react with murmurs and move closer to the Sword in the Stone]

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 1]People of Britain, on this wondrous Christmas Day, how blessed we are that the Lord will choose our king through this mysterious and miraculous means. Surely, our Lord favors a pious, holy leader. Therefore, let me, King Lot of Lothian, be the first to approach this Sword in the Stone. You know me as a faithful servant of our Lord and a friend to the priestly class. Please, step aside; let me approach the stone. [Pulls with all his might, but cannot budge the sword]

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 1]

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Oh, great King Lot! It seems the good Lord does not favor you today! Noblemen of Britain, you know me, King Uryens of Gore, as leader of the most powerful realm in the north of Greater Britain. Surely, my leadership and mighty arms of oak make me destined to be your king. Please, step aside; give me room. [Pulls with all his might, but cannot budge the sword]

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 1]King Uryens, do not exhaust yourself! Clearly, this Sword in the Stone is not a matter for the brutish. I have studied this device and now comprehend its cunning design. Only the keen-witted who understand the angles and pressures involved can accomplish this task. Step aside, please. [Studies the angles with hand gestures. Pulls with all his might, but cannot budge the sword]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 13]And so, one by one, every king and baron and duke and knight present at the great event had their turn to pull the sword from the stone. Yet, the sword stood motionless, never moved even a hair’s breadth by their herculean efforts.

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 3]He is not here! No one here can move this sword from the stone. But fear not; God will send us our king! Let messengers be sent throughout the land to announce that on New Year’s Day, one week hence, we will hold a great tournament and see whether our King is amongst those who come to joust.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 14]All this was done, and on New Year’s Day a great gathering of knights met together. However, once again, one by one, they tried with all their might, but no one could move the sword from the stone. Then, they went off to a great field, pitched tents, and held a tournament of sham-fighting with broadswords and long lances of wood.

Sir Ector, rode to the tournament with his son Sir Kay, who had recently been knighted. Sir Ector’s younger son, Arthur, was now in his teen years, but was still too young to become a knight and acted as Sir Kay’s squire. When they arrived at the tournament, Sir Kay found to his annoyance that his sword was missing from its sheath.

Sir Kay (Marynna) [line 1]Arthur, I have left my sword behind at the lodge. Please, run and fetch it for me immediately so that I will not miss the tournament.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 1]

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Of course, brother. I am off at once.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 15]So, as a dutiful squire, Arthur raced back to the lodge. When he arrived there, he found the door locked and bolted with no one there.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 2]Oh no! I can’t get in! Everyone has left to watch the tournament. Kay must have a sword for his first tournament, or everyone will laugh at the young knight without a sword. But where can I find him one? [Pauses to think]I know! I saw one sticking in an anvil in the churchyard. I’ll fetch it. It’s doing no good there.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 16]Arthur raced back to the churchyard and found it completely empty. Without stopping to read the inscription on the anvil, Arthur quickly and effortlessly pulled the sword clear of the anvil and stone. He then raced back to the tournament to present the sword to his brother Kay.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 3]Kay, I have gotten you a sword.

Sir Kay (Marynna) [line 2]Thank you, Arthur. I can always rely on you. [Pauses as he examines the sword]But this is not any sword… Father! Good Sir Ector! Father!

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 1]Yes, Kay. Why all the excitement?

Sir Kay (Marynna) [line 3]Sir! Look! Here is the sword that was lodged in the stone! The succession falls to me! I must be the true-born king of all Britain!

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 2]Son, how can this be? [PAUSES] But I must be certain. Kay, I must test you with an oath. Do you swear upon the Holy Gospel to tell me how you came by this sword?

Sir Kay (Marynna) [line 4][Sighs and is defeated] Father, my brother Arthur brought me the sword.

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Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 3]Thank you for speaking the truth, son. Now, Arthur, how did you get the sword?

King Arthur (TJ) [line 4]Father, I meant no harm. When Kay sent me back to get his sword I found the lodge locked and empty. Then, I remembered having seen on my way this sword sticking uselessly into an anvil in the churchyard. I thought it could be put to better use in my brother’s hand. So, I fetched it.

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 17]So, Sir Ector led Sir Kay and Arthur back to the church courtyard so that he could test the truth of the matter.

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 4]Arthur, would you please thrust the sword back into the stone?

King Arthur (TJ) [line 5]Yes, father. That is easily done. [Replaces the sword]

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 5]Now, Kay. Let’s see what you can do.[Kay tried but fails to move the sword]

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 6]Very well. Let me try.[Ector tried but fails to move the sword]

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 7]Arthur, please pull out the sword.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 6]Yes, father, although I don’t understand all that is happening here. [He effortlessly removes the sword; Sir Ector and Kay quickly kneel before Arthur]

King Arthur (TJ) [line 7]Father, what is happening? Why do you both kneel before me?

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 8]

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My Liege, there is only one man living who can draw the sword from the stone, and he is the true-born King of Britain. Moreover, it is now time to tell you who you are.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 8]Father, what do you mean?

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 9]Arthur, though I love you well, you are not my son. Merlin brought you to me when you were a baby and bade me to bring you up as my own. Your parents are King Uther Pendragon and Queen Igraine.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 9][Silently stunned for a few seconds] Really...King Uther?...Really? [Walks to the side in silence]My dear Father, please understand that I will always only think of you as my father.

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 10]And I will forever be at your service, young King Arthur.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 10]If, as you say, I am indeed King, I hereby pledge myself to the service of God and my people, to the righting of wrongs, to the driving-out of evil, and to the bringing of peace and plenty to our land!

Sir Kay (Marynna) [line 5]Well said, brother and King! And I will fight for these noble causes by your side! [All embrace in a big hug]

SCENE 7:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 18]So, Sir Ector, Sir Kay, and Arthur went to the Archbishop of Canterbury and told him all that had taken place. But the minor kings, dukes, and barons gathered for the New Year’s tournament refused to believe the news of young Arthur.

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 2]Honored Archbishop, how could this mere boy be God’s chosen one? How could he have the spiritual wisdom required to fulfill the sacred task of British High King?

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 2]

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Yes, and furthermore, he is not yet strong enough to wield a sword and join the ranks of the knights. Will this pipsqueek defend our land from our enemies who seek to crush us under their feet?

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 2]Yes, indeed! And yet there is more. This boy lacks knowledge and experience and cannot possibly have the cunning needed to manage our great realm.

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 3]Yes, indeed! And still more! This boy was raised by Sir Ector, and he surely is not of royal blood. How can one of ignoble blood reign over our land?

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 4]All right, faithless nobles. You shall have the proof. [Pause and turn and bow to Arthur]Sire, young Arthur, please, for the sake of the unbelievers gathered here, would you kindly withdraw the sword from the stone?

[Arthur approaches the sword; everyone is hushed and leans in to see; then with great ease he withdraws the sword and holds it high over his head; then the crowd murmurs]

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 4]It is a trick! Archbishop, you yourself have said that Merlin is intimately involved in all these strange goings-on.

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 3]How can we trust this pagan sorcerer and his mysterious powers?

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 3]This Merlin is said to be born of the devil. Has he enchanted this Sword in the Stone for his own fiendish purposes?

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 5]Very well, you unbelievers. [Pause and turn and bow to Arthur]My liege…, noble Arthur, please, would you be so generous as to replace the sword once more in the stone?

King Arthur (TJ) [line 11][Arthur replaces the sword]

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Let he who will try again for themselves.

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 5]I will have at it! Get out of my way![He cannot move the sword and is overcome with anger]It is a trick! I will not accept this sorcery!

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 4]It is my turn! [He cannot move the sword and is overcome with anger]We will not be played with like fools! We shall not let this stand!

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 4]Noblemen of Britain, I refuse to accept this boy as our king! He is nothing without the consent of the noble class. Let us depart from these vile proceedings at once.[The nobles yell and cry in anger and depart]

SCENE 8:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 19]The noblemen stormed away from the churchyard on that New Year’s Day and caused the throne of Britain to remain empty. In the weeks that followed the Archbishop of Canterbury tried to convince the rebellious nobles to accept Arthur as their legitimate king. But to no avail, for many of the nobleman were blinded by their own greed and passion to be the supreme leader of the land.

The Archbishop called for another tournament three months later on the high holy day of Easter. Again, all the ambitious nobles came to pull the sword from the stone, and once again, none could move the sword a hair’s breadth but young Arthur himself. Again, they stormed off. And again, the Archbishop convinced them to return once more three months hence, at the beginning of Summer at the feast of Pentecost, and the same events repeated themselves once again.

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 5][As all the noblemen lay defeated and exhausted, Nentres strains to remove the sword]Ahhh!!! It will not budge! Not now, not ever, not for any of us!

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 6]Good noblemen of Britain, when will your foolish faithlessness be done? For six long months, you have refused to accept the will of God.

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Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 1]We will stand for it no more!

Commoner 2 (Maddie) [line 1]Accept the miracle of the Sword in the Stone!

Commoner 3 (Gurleen) [line 1]By God’s will Arthur is our King!

All Commoners[Shouting and aggravated, beginning to push forward toward the nobles]Arthur is our King! Arthur is our King! We will stand for it no more!

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 7]Noblemen, your ignoble actions have rightly riled up the commoners; chaos threatens our lands. [Pause and turn and bow to Arthur]Sire…, my liege Arthur…, please, on this third high holy day in a row, for the safety of our kingdom, would you please kindly withdraw the sword from the stone once more so that the eyes of the blind might finally see?

King Arthur (TJ) [line 12]For peace, at last, in our land. [He pulls out the sword]

Commoner 3 (Gurleen) [line 2]By God’s will Arthur is our King! Let the blind see!

Commoner 2 (Maddie) [line 2]Accept the miracle of the Sword in the Stone!

Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 2]We will stand for it no more! Let us open the eyes of those who will not see!

All Commoners[Shouting and aggravated, beginning to push forward toward the nobles]Arthur is our King! Arthur is our King! We will stand for it no more! Open their eyes!

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 5]No! It is just a trick of sorcery!!

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All Commoners[Shouting and aggravated, beginning to push forward toward the nobles]Arthur is our King! Arthur is our King! We will stand for it no more! Open their eyes!

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 8]Noblemen, won’t you see? The common people have had enough of your treachery. Look around you. Don’t you see that those who toil to provide our daily bread far outnumber you, the overlords perched atop our society? [The nobles look at the commoners nervously]

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 6]We are defeated. [Said with disgust; anger]

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 6]Good Archbishop and commoners! We are loath to admit it, but we have been blinded by ambition. We know in our hearts that you are right.

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 6]All of us together, the commoner and noble class as one, let us bend our knee to the right-wise king of Britain, the youthful Arthur. [All knee to Arthur except Archbishop, who remains standing]

Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 3]My liege, young King Arthur, we are heartbroken that your kingship has been delayed for so long.

Commoner 2 (Maddie) [line 3]As your first act as king, we humbly ask you to be merciful to your disloyal subjects.

Commoner 3 (Gurleen) [line 3]Please accept our apology for the disrespect you have been shown.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 13]People of Britain, hear me. I readily accept your apology. I hold no ill will against any of you, for being human, I understand the dark passions with which we all struggle. [He turns to address the Archbishop]Now, let me also join you. I bend my knee in supplication to the authority that is even higher than mere kings. [He hands Archbishop the Sword in the Stone, then kneels

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Revered Archbishop of Canterbury, please let me take the first step an adult of noble blood must take. With this miraculous Sword in the Stone, please admit me to the high and holy order of knighthood.

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 9]Arthur, son of the High King of Britain, Uther Pendragon, born of the noble Queen Igraine, will you pledge your allegiance as a true-blooded man of the noble class to serve the most high, our Lord and Savior? As his humble servant, will you put service to the well-being of all classes and the defense of the helpless and oppressed before your very life? Will you defend the land of your birth with your life?

King Arthur (TJ) [line 14]I swear to abide by these oaths. And furthermore, I pledge to be a champion of all that is right and to do my utmost to drive darkness in all its forms out of Great Britain.

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 10]With this miraculous Sword in the Stone, I hereby dub thee the first knight of the realm, Sir Arthur. Furthermore, in a few days hence, we will gather here again for your coronation as rightwise born High King of all Britain.

Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 4]All hail, young Sir Arthur, soon to be King Arthur, leader of the Britons! [All hail and cheer Arthur]

SCENE 9:

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 20]After the coronation of King Arthur all the nobles swore their allegiance to the new king. Arthur quickly got to work restoring order to the kingdom that had fallen into chaos in the years since the death of Uther Pendragon. He took to the sword to drive out the hated Saxons who had invaded and pillaged the southern realms around London. Then, he led his forces to the north and west, and within the first year of his kingship, the young King Arthur had driven out all invaders and defeated his enemies. The teenage king proved his great valor fighting on the field of battle and his reputation grew greater and greater.

To celebrate all that was accomplished during his first anniversary as king, he announced a tournament to be held on the Feast of Pentecost at the castle at Caerleon in southern Wales. All the nobles and commoners alike from the realm were warmly invited to the festivities.

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Merlin (Josh) [line 7][Merlin’s owl Archimedes appears on the screen and gives lonely hoots as Merlin enters and circles stage]Oh, Archimedes, my trusted friend... How sad is the lot of humankind? [Merlin is despondent; Archimedes responds with a plaintive hoot]

Arthur has done more to bring peace and prosperity to his kingdom in his first year than any king ever born. And exactly for this reason, the Six Kings of northern Britain have become jealous of Arthur once again. They have turned against him and have set the kingdom aflame with war. [Archimedes responds with a plaintive hoot]They have ruined the Pentecost feast and surrounded and laid siege to Arthur’s castle at Caerleon. Even though I tire of all these troubles, I must set off to speak with these six kings.

Please, Archimedes, keep your great eyes open. Help me to see through this darkness and guide Arthur’s hand.[Archimedes responds with a plaintive hoot; Merlin EXITS Side]

SCENE 10:

[ENTER Back: The Six Kings] [ENTER Side Merlin after the kings]

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 7]So, at dawn we will once again attack Arthur’s castle, but this time we will have the catapults lead the charge.

[ENTER Side Merlin]Merlin (Josh) [line 8]Rebellious villains, I will have a word with you.

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 7]It is Merlin! How did he get past the guards?!

Merlin (Josh) [line 9]Why have you again risen against your rightful king?

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 7]No, the question is why do you pretend that our king is that puny boy Arthur?![Then all three kinds talk at once in anger at Merlin]

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Merlin (Josh) [line 10]Silence, you fool! I have seen Arthur’s future through my holy arts! He is destined to greatness and will win homage not only from you, but from monarchs in many distant lands as well. Hear me well! Arthur will soon smash you upon the plain of Caerleon and scatter your forces like dust.

King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 8]You are a false prophet, Merlin! Your pagan arts bring you only confused dreams!

King Nentres of Garlot (Glenn) [line 8]Our minds are steeled! We will pull down this runt king! Look around, Merlin!

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 8]Our army is three times the size of Arthur’s weak forces. All the northern kingdoms have joined against him![Then all three kinds talk at once in anger at Merlin]

Merlin (Josh) [line 11]Rabid dogs, you have been warned![EXIT Side Merlin; MOVE TO SIDE, stay on stage, Six Kings]

SCENE 11:

[ENTER Back: Arthur and his men; ENTER Side Merlin]

King Arthur (TJ) [line 15]Merlin! What news do you bring?

Merlin (Josh) [line 12]Our enemies are poisoned by jealousy and will not have peace. However, you have nothing to fear, even though your forces will be greatly outnumbered.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 16]I trust your words, Merlin!

Merlin (Josh) [line 13]You must do exactly as I say. Do not wield your miraculous Sword in the Stone until the moment when it seems that you are losing the battle. Only then should you employ it with all your might.

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King Arthur (TJ) [line 17]As always, I will do precisely as you say! Thank you, benefactor. [EXIT Side Merlin; ENTER Back Six Kings and army]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 21]Merlin suddenly vanished. Then, the Six Kings and their vast army suddenly appeared from the woods at the end of the field and marched to stand opposite Arthur’s forces. The Six Kings indeed did have the superior army, a force of 60,000 knights strong. Arthur’s army had only 20,000 warriors. For a few eerie minutes, the crowded plain fell hushed. [Pause has armies stare across at each other]

King Arthur (TJ) [line 18]Sir Ulfius and Sir Kay! Ready your 3,000 men for the first charge![Pause for a few seconds]Vanguard soldiers! Ready! Charge!

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 22]The battle was joined and the first wave of knights and horses from both armies crashed together in the center of the field. [Pause as they clash]

Ulfius and Kay slashed with their swords so ferociously that they beat back the enemy and wounded many in this first clash. [Pause as they clash]

[ENTER Side: Commoners 1 & 2; stand just inside door]Commoner 2 (Maddie) [line 4]Master, is it time? Now?Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 5]No, not yet. Patience, young man.[EXIT Side: Commoners 1 & 2]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 23]Then, the second wave of warriors raced to join the melee, swelling the mass of flailing swords that cut through the air. [Pause as they clash]

Next, Sir Kay attacked and drove back King Nentres.[Pause as they clash]

Soon Kay knocked Nentres down. Then, King Lot charged in to rescue Nentres.

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[Pause as they clash]

Then, King Lot traded blows with Sir Kay. [Pause as they clash]

After a fierce back and forth battle, Kay managed to stun King Lot, who then retreated to recover.[Pause]

[ENTER Side: Commoners 1 & 2; stand just inside door]Commoner 3 (Gurleen) [line 4]Master, Now? Now?Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 6]No, no; not yet. [EXIT Side: Commoners 1 & 2]

Finally, King Arthur’s time to join the battle arrived. He galloped into the melee and attacked with his backup sword, keeping his miraculous sword sheathed as Merlin had commanded. The youth stabbed and slashed with a sustained fierceness that stunned his enemies and drove them stumbling backwards.

[King Uryens and Lot speak together on the side]King Uryens of Gore (Jimmy) [line 9]King Lot, we must find a way to stop Arthur! He is decimating our army! We will be lost!

King Lot of Lothian (Robert) [line 9]Never! I have a plan to take down the false king! Follow me![King Lot leads Uryens and others; the circle around come up behind Arthur unawares]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 24]King Lot led King Uryens and others on a surprise attack on Arthur from the rear. As Arthur wheeled to repel them, King Lot struck him to the ground. Arthur knew this was the moment Merlin had seen and that it was time to draw the miraculous Sword in the Stone. He pulled it from its scabbard and raised it high above his head. Its indescribable brilliance had the effect of dazzling his opponents, and he slaughtered with zest. He beat back those that surrounded him, King Lot and King Uryens and a dozen others. Lot and Uryens turned and ran away blinded and bloody, while the more valiant were cut down and fell dead there upon the field.

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[GO TO BACK OF STAGE TO HIDE: King Lot and Uryens; FIRST Commoners stand at Side Door; then ENTER]

[ENTER Side: Commoners 1 & 2; stand just inside door]Commoner 2 (Maddie) [line 5]Now?! Let us go now! Commoner 1 (Justin) [line 7]Yes! Now! Now! Commoners take the field! Drive them out! Drive them out![EXIT Side: Commoners 1 & 2]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 25]The commoners would be held back no longer. They stampeded onto the field, and with clubs and staves joined their champion Arthur. With great sport, they whacked and slapped and jabbed and stomped and knocked away at the weakened enemy. [Pause as the commoners battle]With the help of the mass of the people, Arthur and his men ended the battle in a rout. The army of the Six Kings were overwhelmed by the onslaught and turned in retreat. [Pause as the Six King’s retreat; EXIT Back Six King’s Army]Then, out of nowhere, Merlin suddenly appeared at Arthur’s side.

[ENTER Side Merlin]Merlin (Josh) [line 14]Arthur, do not pursue the enemy any further. Of the 60,000 who fought against you today, only 15,000 survive. It is time to call a halt, or the wrath of Heaven will be upon you.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 19]Yes, Merlin, you are right. Good knights, halt! Let them run and escape! There has been too much war for one day! The battle is done! We have won the day![ALL Knights and Commoners halt to listen, then cheer]

Sir Ulfius (Noah) [line 4]King Arthur, you have led us to victory like the most cunning of kings. If only your father King Uther Pendragon, my great friend, was here to see.

Sir Ector (Nicholas) [line 11]I, Sir Ector, your foster-father, know I speak for your true father and mother. Your courage, ferocity, and power was unmatched on the field of battle today!

Archbishop of Canterbury (Elena) [line 11]

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King Arthur, victorious noblemen, and respected commoners, let your representative for God himself, leader of the priestly class, have a word. It is fitting and right that all the classes are here together as one united body. We have all shared in the bloody sacrifice made to save our land and defeat the forces of evil.

King Arthur (TJ) [line 20]Yes, and further, it is to the united efforts of all that I owe everything. If it were not for Merlin and Sir Ulfius, I never even would have been born. If not for Sir Ector and Sir Kay, I never would have survived my youth. If not for the Archbishop, my royal blood would never have been known to the people. If not for the righteousness of the commoners, I never would have gained my rightful place as king. So as one great body, let us thank and give praise to each and all. A cheer for our United Kingdom of Greater Britain! [ALL cheer and embrace; then EXIT Back ALL]

SCENE 12:

[ENTER Side Merlin; Archimedes appears on the back screen]

Narrator (Kenneth) [line 26]Thus, the brutal and decisive Battle of Caerleon ended. The living walked the field to find and bury and honor their dead upon the green plain, then turned back towards their homes and warm hearths and loved ones. Their voices were softened by a hush and wonder for all they had seen since the last Pentecost when the miraculous boy Arthur became the British king.

Merlin (Josh) [line 15]Oh, Archimedes, now finally I can rest these ancient bones, if only for a little while. Arthur’s first fateful year as king has ended. I am tired. [He pauses and Archimedes whooos]

So much more is destined for our charge, Arthur. So much good, and so much bad. The Britons have not even yet heard of how Arthur will create a great Round Table of a hundred knights who will swear to fight only for what is right and good.

They have not yet laid eyes upon his exquisite wife Guinevere, who will bring him so much joy, but then set off disaster and the utter destruction of Camelot.

Far in the future, their British ancestors will repeat the tales of Arthur until they will be written down into book after book.

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With his golden heart and gritty effort, Arthur will be successful for a time at bringing light and justice to the larger, darker, Medieval age surrounding his reign.

It will be beautiful and terrible, Archimedes.

Like we saw today on the bloody field of Caerleon, terrible and beautiful.

Such is the lot of man.

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Documents

1.cdn.edl.io Web viewisland of Great Britain. When the Roman legions withdrew, the many local tribal kingdoms of England began to fight one another to become the new dominate force