THE ROLE OF FATE AND PROPHECY IN THE FALL OF CAMELOT IN SIR THOMAS MALORY'S LE MORTE D'ARTHUR

Abstract

Sir Thomas Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur remains one of the most influential works of medieval English literature. Among the numerous themes explored in the narrative, the concepts of fate and prophecy occupy a particularly important position. Throughout the text, prophetic warnings repeatedly announce future disasters, especially the destruction of Camelot and the death of King Arthur. These predictions create an atmosphere of inevitability and raise an important question: were the tragic events predetermined by fate, or were they the result of human choices? This article examines the role of prophecy in Malory's narrative and analyzes how predictions influence the actions of Arthur, Mordred, Lancelot, and other characters. The study argues that fate and free will function simultaneously in Le Morte d'Arthur. Although prophetic revelations indicate the future, the downfall of Camelot occurs largely because characters react to those prophecies in destructive ways. Malory presents a world in which destiny may reveal possible outcomes, but human decisions ultimately contribute to their fulfillment.