The betrayal of King Arthur is most famously attributed to Sir Lancelot and Queen Guinevere. Their romantic affair created a rift in Arthur’s court, ultimately leading to the downfall of Camelot.
Sir Lancelot, one of Arthur’s most trusted knights, fell in love with Queen Guinevere, Arthur’s wife. This love affair remained a secret for a long time, but eventually, it was discovered, leading to a series of tragic events. The betrayal not only shattered Arthur’s personal life but also weakened the unity of the Round Table. The ensuing conflict saw Lancelot fleeing to France, and Guinevere being charged with treason. This set off a chain reaction of battles that ultimately led to the demise of Arthur’s reign.
In addition to Lancelot, another figure, Mordred, also plays a crucial role in betraying King Arthur. Mordred, often depicted as Arthur’s illegitimate son or nephew, eventually turns against Arthur in the Quest for the Holy Grail, seeking to usurp the throne during Arthur’s absence. This treachery culminates in the Battle of Camlann, where Arthur and Mordred face off, leading to catastrophic consequences for both.
In summary, the betrayal of King Arthur was a multifaceted event primarily involving Lancelot’s affair with Guinevere and Mordred’s treachery, both of which severely undermined the ideals of chivalry and loyalty upheld in Arthurian legend.