The Idylls of the King contrast various types of spirituality, from the strict asceticism of characters like Percivale, Pellam, and Galahad, who withdraw from this world in search of the one beyond, to the crazy, animalistic hedonism of Vivien, who believes people should give into their passions.
Somewhere in the middle of all this is Arthur, whose insistence that people can and should live according to principles like truth, justice, and fairness is inspired by his desire to work God’s will on earth. Yet even Arthur’s beliefs are tested in the end, as he questions humans’ ability to know or understand God’s plan and, consequently, to ever carry it out.
Questions About Spirituality
- How would you characterize Vivien’s spirituality? How do her beliefs compare with those of characters like Pelleas, Galahad, Percivale, and Percivale’s sister?
- Why does Arthur disapprove of the Grail Quest? Are his fears for his knights justified?
- Describe Arthur’s belief system. How does Arthur try to live out his beliefs?
- Is Arthur’s spirituality compatible with that of characters like Percivale and Galahad? Why or why not?
Chew on This
Arthur’s belief in translating ideals into action in the world makes his spirituality incompatible with that of a Percivale or a Galahad.
Vivien’s spirituality threatens the principles upon which Arthurian society is based.