Customer Reviews

Merlin (Book II of the Pendragon Cycle)

5 star:		(31)
4 star:		(10)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

These books sold very, very well for the author in what can only be described as an impossibly crowded genre. It seems every fantasy novelist attempts, at some point, a re-telling and definitive edition of the Arthurian myth. It is the only subject more trampled and copied than Tolkien. It is also the genre that lapses in to the most astonishing absurdities. Lawhead, with these three books (Taliesin, Merlin, and Arthur) has contributed something very relevant and very new to the genre. It gives the myth a burst of idealism and Christianity not seen since Tennyson with the Celtic traditions not seen since the Mabinogion. Sadly, with the publication of the latter three--and far lesser novels (Pendragon, Grail, and Avallon) the series is much damaged and diminished. We believe that Lawhead would've been far better served to let the trilogy stand on its own where it's not so intimidating and probably would've enjoyed subsequent reprinting. As it stands, our rating for this book is slightly tarnished by these later publications and endanger the proud work of a very, very good author.

WHO SHOULD READ:

Readers who enjoyed Tolkien a great deal and who read Terry Brooks, Robert Jordan, and others searching for that same idealism will come closest to finding it here with Lawhead. Readers who enjoyed Marion Zimmerman Bradley's feminized version of the legend in The Mists of Avalon will find this work operating as a kind of opposite: Bradley employing the traditional pagan religious elements and feminism while re-working the French side of the myth while Lawhead invoking Christian theology and masculinity in t the Celtic side of the myth. They are very interesting to read together. These books are excellent choices for teenagers for whom idealism is second nature. Oddly, readers deeply impressed with the idealism of the people living in "The Land" in The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, the Unbeliever will find themselves deeply compelled by this work.

WHO SHOULD AVOID:

Scholars of Arthuriana, those more versed in Malory, Monmouth, Eschenbach, de Troyes, and even Tennyson, will probably be a bit disappointed. They are going to be much less impressed with what they might regard as overly-dramatic prose and much more sensitive to the liberties--particularly the Christian liberties--that Lawhead takes with the story. Certainly those readers who are inclined to much more cynical writing styles of the late 20th and 21st century--people who enjoy the subtle undercurrents and "un-heroism" of more modern irreverent works--will probably become bored and irritable with the constant nobility (just as they would become bored with Tennyson's Idylls of the King). People looking to investigate the actual history and evolution of the mythology would not be well-served by reading this book but should look to the actual source material of Malory and perhaps some of the earlier Celtic works such as Monmouth and The Alliterative Morte d'Arthure.

READ THE ENTIRE REVIEW AT INCHOATUS.COM

I started out the Pendragon Cycle with "Taliesin", as was the chronological thing to do. After that came "Merlin" - and maybe it was the anticipation after reading "Taliesin", or maybe it was only the fascination I've held for Merlin ever since the first time I discovered Arthurian legend...whatever it was, I absolutely fell in love with this book.

Now that I've finished reading the cycle, I can say without a doubt that "Merlin" surpasses all others in the series. Arthur is a genius, Llenlleawg a talented warrior, Pelleas a loyal companion...but Merlin is REAL. Merlin has gifts and flaws; he has a distinct personality that makes him come to life as a flesh and bone human (however immortal). For example, I found him to be vain and more snobbish as the story progressed! He is definately one of the most well-written characters I've ever read.

After finishing this book in less than four hours, I eagerly acquired the rest of the Pendragon series, thinking that they would live up to the standard of "Merlin", if not surpass it. I should have known that such a perfect book full of plot and characterization is one of a kind. However, to my delight, Merlin's character only develops more in depth as the Pendragon series continued on. After all, Merlin's name is etched in legend...but in Lawhead's writing, he lives.

You know, I could really dig into this book and pull out stuff like the symbolism of the hawk, and color symbolism of the golden eyes. I could give you the signifigance of the choice of diction, tell you about the underlying themes, but you don't want to hear about that. Merlin is the son of Taliesin the bard and Charis the Fair Folk princess. Merlin spends most of the year with his mother on Ynys Avallach and the summers with his grandparents in their caer training with the warriors and the bards. His father's people call him Myrddyn (pronounced Mur- then). The plot details his childhood and how he grows to be a warrior and a bard, and his life as he deals with his immortality. There are plenty of battle scenes for those of you who like that stuff, and also a bit of romance here and there for those of you who like *that* stuff. Lawhead paints realistic and vivid pictures of life in Celtic Britian. The character developement is nothing short of incredible. There are stories that you read, and then there are stories that you experience. This is one of those stories you experience. The story is so concrete, you feel yourself a part of the narrative. Words connot describe the emotions this book conjures. It is an incredible piece of literature. Read. And experience the wonder, the romance, and the battles of...Merlin.

In this second volume of his "Pendragon Cycle" series, Stephen Lawhead continues the story begun in "Taliesin" by telling the tale of Merlin, a remarkable warrior, king, bard, and prophet. Lawhead recounts his rise to kingship, his subsequent fall, and finally his important role as counsellor to kings.

The story focuses on a time of great change in early Britain, as independent kingdoms under Roman rule vanish and become united under one High King. The transition from individual local kingdoms to one great kingdom under a great king remarkably parallels a similar transition in the Bible: from the anarchy and chaos of the Judges, to the unified rule under the Kings Saul and David. Merlin's role is much like that of the Biblical Samuel: the figure who ushers in this transition by his prophecies, wisdom and counsel. The parallels don't end there - for like Israel, early Britain is portrayed as a time of prophets (the druids), priests (the Roman Catholics) and kings.

The world of upheaval in which Merlin lives is characterized by trials, tragedy and triumphs. Much like "Taliesin", the reader is treated to a vast array of human emotions described in most vivid details - from utter joy to utmost sorrow - and is subsequently tossed from the pinnacles of happiness to the pits of despair. But Lawhead does not delight in dragging his readers through gory details of bloodshed and death - in fact killing for revenge alone is presented as murder (p.314-5). Bloodshed for the sake of justice and truth has a clear purpose: the way is being paved to the "Kingdom of Summer" ruled by King Arthur where justice, truth and right will be defended and maintained (p.108). One of Arthur's predecessor's (Aurelius) must bear the sword all his days as king before this is achieved (p.318). Astute Bible readers will note here an unmistakeable parallel with the era of King David and King Solomon.

Yet beneath such formalistic parallels with Scriptural narratives, lies a solid Biblical death. The foundation of any successful kingdom is clearly recognized and acknowledged: faith in the one true God and His Son Jesus Christ (p.113-4). Once again, Lawhead's Christian perspective shines through beautifully. Unlike much Christian fiction, it is not always obvious nor oppressive - but nor is it superficial. The conflict between good and evil, the powers of light and darkness is always sharply defined, and mirrors the conflict between God and Satan. Success is presented as possible only with God's help and His blessing.

But "Merlin" also raised the questions that were evoked by "Taliesin". Why is Christianity is identified with Roman Catholicism, with its focus on holy places and objects, and materialistic view of the mass (p.112)? And does Lawhead have an overly optimistic view of Celtic religion, and does he leave room for Christians to use the occult? His assessment of the occultic and ancient rituals of the pagans does not appear harsh enough, since he appears to view it as a mild form of the truth ("In every age there is some good" p.191), and that the occultic powers can be harnessed by the Christian prophet for good - Merlin being a case in point. This is confirmed by his description of Lughnasadh, as being a time where "the veil between the Otherworld and this worlds-realm grows thin and allows the initiated a glimpse of what was, or will be." (p.397). Whether such a syncretism of paganism and Christianity is possible is highly debatable, unless of course Lawhead is intending to present Britain as a model of the pre-Christian era (the time of judges and kings?) prior to the cessation of prophecy and prior to the completion of the canon of Scripture. But as it is, leaving the door open to a favorable view of occultic activities left me distinctly uncomfortable.

But don't let this decrease your appetite for Merlin. It's a gripping and satisfying tale, one that simultaneously evokes emotions, stimulates imagination, and causes reflection. The first person point of view is utilized superbly to present Merlin as thoroughly real man with flaws and failures as well as strengths and successes. Like "Taliesin", "Merlin" showcases Lawhead's myriad of talents in a delightful mix of romance, adventure, emotion, faith and even poetry. The Christian imagery is subtle and profound, and once again Lawhead has produced a fantasy gem that is greatly superior to most contemporary Christian fiction.

Merlin is the second book in Stephen R. Lawhead's Pendragon Cycle. Merlin picks up following the events of Taliesin, which saw Atlantean Princess Charis marrying Bard Taliesin, the birth of their son Merlin, and Taliesin's murder by Charis' half-sister Morgan. This book can be diveded into about 3 parts. The first is the story of Merlin's childhood, where is is taught wisdom by both Druids, Priests and former kings of Atlantis. The second deals with Merlin's brief reign as a warrior Celtic prince, story of love and war, ending in tragedy. The final part of the book deals with Merlin as a kingmaker and ends with the birth of Arthur. Set in the time period just after the end of Roman occupation, Lawhead combines history with Celtic mythology to create a very different look at the story of Arthur. Very few writers take their works as far back as Lawhead does, and very, very few are as detailed and interesting. Although there are many elements of magic in this book, it can almost be described as historical fiction as opposed to fantasy, yet enough fantastic elements remain to make this a terrific read.

I enjoyed this book a bit more than Taliesin, which was the first of the Pendragon cycle. This book is told in the first person narrative, which makes it easier to follow. All aspects of Merlin's life are brought out in this wonderful book, his brief reign as warrior-king; the "mad" hermit in the forest; and finally in the role of mystic bard, which is the most familar. Lawhead writes in a very enjoyable style, and the book takes you along as the story progresses. While a different approach to the Arthurian legend, I would highly recommend this series!

Next to "Arthur", I think this is the best book in the series. It does not shuffle between narrarators, it is in first person from Merlin's point of view. Very accurate to legend and poetically written. It has an intriguing plot that adhers to legend with Lawhead's added research on the time and culture, as well as imagination.

I have read too many accounts of Arthurian fiction, and I very much liked the Pendragon cycle. Lawhead writes like a poet. His writing can get pretentious at times, and a bit thick and hard to read, but it is well worth it. It definitly enriched my mind and made me want to write epic poetry. It's not the kind of book that you can't put down, the narrative doesn't flow like a best-selling novel, but if you like the subject matter, it is not hard to get though.

Many people critisize this series of books because it deviates from legend. This bothers me. The reason it is "legend" and not fact is because it is largely unknown. I love how lawhead makes everything seem authentically celtic, ("Bedwyr" instead of "Bedivere" and so on)and he puts his own version of the legend, which every author has the right to do. If you're anything like me, your sick of hearing about Lancelot and Guenivere and you want a new and refreshing version of the saga. Lawhead has done his research and knows what he is writing.

Strongly recommended. Read the series in order, and don't just read one, it will loose the flavor.

Without a doubt, Merlin is *the* best historical fiction book I've ever read. Actually, I could clarify and just call it the best fiction book I've ever read period! Truly great writing, along with an incredible story and a character you can't help but love! I strongly recommend reading the entire series, but if you have time for just one, then make sure this one is it!

Merlin, the advisor of Arthur, considered by some a wizard or sorcerer, is a bard, prophet, and warrior, and possesses power granted by the Christian god. In Merlin, by Stephen R. Lawhead, you discover Merlin's roots, and how he came to know Arthur, who would one day unite Britain. The story can exist by itself, but is much easier to understand if you have read its prequal, Taliesin, which tells of how Merlin's mother and father met. In Merlin, the name most commonly used for Merlin is Myrrdin. He is the offspring of Charis, and Taliesin. Taliesin was the best bard that had ever lived before he was killed and Charis was a princess of Atlantis who managed to escape before the gods reclaimed the land.

The book is wonderfully descriptive and throughout the pages you get a strong sense of emotion, be it joyful or sorrowful. The first part of the book is Myrrdin telling his life until he was driven mad by the mutilation of his wife by Saecson warriors. In his insanity he fled society and live among the hills. The flash-backs are vivid, and make you feel like you are actually experiencing them, not merely being told of them. His life consists of events, all meticulously described, so you can see and hear them in your brain - like the smells the scent of a wolfskin coat, or the roasting of meat, and you can even feel the atmosphere of battle suppressing you. When Myrrdin goes into his "bullet time" battle rage, you can see the battle in slow motion as he effortlessly hacks his way through hundred of Saecson and Picti barbarians, and saves his companions from death by the axes of the Saecsons, or spears of the Picti.

In Myrrdin's charge against the Saecsons that mutilated his wife and unborn child, he cleaves a path to the center of a force of several hundred Saecsons, after entering his battle rage. Because he is in the middle of the Saecson army, he is unable to help his friends, and after seeing several go down, starts seeing all of them die, and after all the Saecsons have been killed flees madly to the hill even with his steward calling his name to come back. The book after the flash backs, is just as descriptive, and even more compelling, The book is a religious novel, but it is not offensive to non-Christians as it doesn't say the extinct Celtic religion is bad, only that it is not the whole truth. The politics of the book are reasonable, the kings and people respond realistically to events. In the second part of the book Myrrdin looses his ability to see battle in slow motion, and respond with super human speed, but the battles are even more amazing.

Uther is the Duke of Britain after Myrrdin establishes his brother as high king. In Uther's first battle against Saecsons he is out numbered by five to one. Yet, by making it appear that he and his horsemen retreated and leaving only footmen behind with Myrrdin and his brother, he managed to come into the rear, where the Saecson leader was and captured him without having to hack their way through several thousand axe wielding Saecsons.

The book, Merlin, is a highly descriptive novel, and is a wonderful addition to the Arthurian saga. It ends with the birth of Arthur, the death of Uther and of the sword of Britain being driven to the hilt into stone. After finishing this novel I immediately got a copy of the next novel of the Pendragon cycle, Arthur. I highly recommend this novel to people who enjoy fantasy novels like Lord of the Rings and any other Arthurian novel.

I never really thought I would read this book. After "Taliesin" I thought, "hey, what's another Arthurian legend? They're all essentially the same and are at best bathroom literature."

I was wrong. Lawhead has just left the bathroom.

"Merlin" starts painfully slowly for the first 150 pages. It took me about a week to muster the energy to get through that part. But after that, it becomes a real page turner. The author throws out the traditional "facts" of Arthurian history (for example, Merlin finds religion, the story behind Arthur's conception) and replaces them with believable legend that fits his characters, fills in gaps that other authors ignore and made me want to read more.

I bought this book along with A.A. Attonasio's "Dragon and Unicorn." I'm finding Lawhead's series to be vastly superior to Attonasio's.

If it didn't start so slowly, it'd be a 5 star book. You wont be sorry.