Merlin: knowledge and power through the ages

Merlin has been a recurring character in literature, particularly but not exclusively in the many retellings of the Arthurian legend. Stephen Knight explores the myth of Merlin from his initial appearance in early Welsh legends as Myrddin through to the many modern works of fiction in which Merlin features. Knight looks at the evolution of the character as a figure of wisdom, provider of advice, cleverness and in more modern times as an educator. Two bibliographies are provided - the first is a long list of works in which Merlin is a character while the second is a list of books and articles about Merlin. This detailed study of the many guises of Merlin and his role in literature is a little ponderous but would be a useful resource for those fascinated by the story of Merlin.