How many times have we read a legend and hoped it was a forgotten piece of history and not simply an idea or analogy? There’s a small corner in our souls that hopes beyond hope these legends of epic duels, mystical monsters, tragic or true love, and battles between good and evil occurred. Of course, no one practices magic these days or rides unicorns, and sorcerers hardly show up on people’s doorsteps saying they are on a quest to help you fulfill your destiny. But that corner in our souls still begs us to believe in the almost unbelievable because it’s…exciting. Thrilling. Exhilarating. These legends remind us good can overcome the bad in this world, and more often than not, heroes are hidden under a layer of complacency and simply need a reason and inspiration to act. BBC’s The Adventures of Merlin, or simply Merlin as it’s fondly known, is a coming of age set before the beginning of the famous Arthurian legend. It not only showcases the positivity of magic, but the strength of brotherhood and importance of destiny.
Merlin, played by Colin Morgan, is the typical nerd if Camelot was a high school. No one at first glance would believe he had more power in his pinkie than a seasoned knight would have in his whole body. Merlin is unassuming, humble, and quirky. His quick and easy smile showcases his friendly demeanor and willingness to lend a hand. We see him in his (probably) late teens when he first meets Prince Arthur, Guinevere (Gwen), Morgana, and a handful of other Camelot favorites. Almost right away he wields his gift of magic for fun, using it to help him with chores or against Arthur in a harmless, comical fight. Despite the fact that magic is outlawed in Camelot due to fear of its presence, Merlin continues practicing and growing in it, always ready to aid a person in need or defeat a monster. Like any gift or talent we’ve been given, Merlin learns through trial and error how not to use magic and when it’s appropriate to exercise his power. His mentor, Gaius, instructs him on its importance and the grave consequences of misuse. While juggling the mastering of magic, Merlin also is hired as the manservant for Prince Arthur, whom he eventually (begrudgingly at first) befriends.
Arthur and Merlin’s friendship is not immediate, nor is it wanted. Both tolerate one another’s presence and Merlin deals with daily verbal jabs from Arthur. He retaliates by calling Arthur names behind his back and griping about it to Gaius and Gwen. For all of Arthur’s arrogance and pride, he and Merlin quickly form a bond of loyalty neither recognizes. Merlin unenthusiastically watches over Arthur and saves his life numerous times with the use of magic. The only reason Arthur never realizes this is due to the fact that Merlin hides from view, incants under his breath, or prevents disasters from occurring in the first place. For all Arthur’s bravado, he does his fair share of rescuing Merlin as well. Whether it’s slaying a monster, hoisting an unconscious Merlin over his shoulder, or sacrificing himself for his kingdom, Arthur becomes a true Prince of Camelot and a true friend. He and Merlin work together through challenges, mishaps, triumphs, battles, losses, and victories. They bring one another to their destiny.
Destiny is…funny. We can start off on one path and end up on another, or we can follow the same course our entire life. No matter what, we need to be challenged to be the best version of ourselves. Gaius pushes Merlin to broaden his perspective and be a man worthy of his gift. Merlin strives to use his magic in a way that benefits as many individuals as possible, and he desires to bring relief to those who suffer. Merlin’s destiny to be Arthur’s right-hand man was set before he was born, and one might say that is why he was born with magic. We can gather from the show that most are not born with it – it must be practiced and learned. Just as it is Merlin’s destiny to support and protect Arthur, Arthur is destined to be the greatest king Camelot has ever known. No one does that by sitting around all day eating bonbons. Arthur takes up quests that put his life in the balance in order to prove himself worthy of being king. He defends Camelot to the brink of death numerous times and sees his subjects as his family. He grows from being a cocky teenager into a man who willingly risks his life for those he loves. Despite hardships and dire circumstances, both men reach the goal destiny sets for them.
Throughout the series, the viewer’s attention is captured by dialogue, costumes, action, and whether or not Merlin and Arthur succeed in their plans for saving Camelot. Merlin and Arthur’s characters show there is more to the story than the mere legend – it brings to life a servant who would do anything for his master and vice versa. With family friendly dialogue and beautiful sets that depict a long lost medieval world, BBC’s Merlin not only depicts a beloved legend, but the essence of magic, brotherhood, and destiny.