Final answer:
The character of King Arthur was based on a semi-historical figure from the Dark Ages and has evolved into a mix of history and legend with elements like the sword Excalibur symbolizing his power. The true historical details are debated, and the literary works embellish the tales of Arthur and his court.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character of King Arthur is believed to have been inspired by a semi-historical figure from the Dark Ages, which span from the 5th to the early Middle Ages (approximately 476 AD to 1000 AD). While the true identity and historical accuracy of King Arthur remains the subject of debate, the legend has been enriched by various literary works and myths throughout history. These stories often highlight the noble attributes of Arthur as a great king, whose court housed notable knights, and whose reign was associated with the famed Round Table. Significant attention in Arthurian legend is also given to the sword Excalibur, attributed to King Arthur as a symbol of his rightful sovereignty and power.
Historians and literary scholars analyze artefacts and literature to gain insights into the lives of historical figures and characters from legends, although they understand that fictional tales often blur the lines between fact and fiction. For instance, Anselm Adorne, a historical figure in real life, appears in a reconstructed fictional setting in historical novels, showcasing how authors creatively blend authenticity and imagination.
Overall, the historical Arthur, if he did exist, would likely have been a Romano-British leader fighting against the Anglo-Saxon invasion after the Roman withdrawal from Britain. However, due to the lack of concrete evidence and the evolution of the stories over centuries, the character of King Arthur remains an intriguing mix of history and legend.