logo

70 pages 2 hours read

John Steinbeck

The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1976

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Essay Topics

1.

Merlin plays a pivotal role in shaping Arthur’s future. Discuss aspects of Arthur’s mythology in the first chapter that can be attributed to Merlin’s intervention. 

2.

In Chapter 6, three knights go on quests guided by three damsels. Describe the temperament of each knight, as evidenced by his choice of guide. 

3.

Think about the association of witchcraft and water in the book. Give examples from different chapters that support this connection. 

4.

In Chapter 3, Merlin foretells his own demise but does nothing to prevent it. Discuss his definition of destiny and how it relates to the concept of free will. 

5.

In Chapter 2, Merlin says that none of the evils that befall Sir Balin are his fault. Is this really true? What choices did he make that led to his doom? 

6.

Damsels play an important role throughout the novel. What is their function? Give examples from various chapters to support your theory. 

7.

Arthur’s wedding feast is disrupted, forcing three knights to go on separate quests. How does their behavior while questing illustrate various principles of the Round Table oath? 

8.

Lancelot is the epitome of the code of chivalry. Explain whether he is satisfied with himself and his achievements. 

9.

Morgan offers Lancelot ultimate power. What does he say about the nature of witches and wizards when he rejects her offer? How does his theory fit her behavior when she tries to undermine Arthur? 

10.

Magical armor and weaponry figure as prominent motifs in the novel. Discuss examples from various chapters of their use and abuse. 

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text