For just one post, I thought I’d break from the norm. As well as a passion for vampires, you might know I have a fascination with many other myths and legends – especially local ones. So, after Batty’s popularity since introducing him to you only a week ago, he’s back for a second appearance. This time, Blackthorn’s mascot is adding a little something to my visit to the magical village of Tintagel in Cornwall: the home of King Arthur.

For those who might not know, King Arthur was a legendary British leader of the late 5th and early 6th centuries who led the defence of Britain against Saxon invaders in the early 6th century. A lot of the story is based on folklore and literature so his actual historical existence is debated and disputed. Needless to say, most people will have heard of Merlin, Excalibur, The Holy Grail and the Knights of the Round Table.

At Tintagel, there’s a replica of King Arthur’s great hall. So here are a few things from inside…

Batty hanging from a sword. Shame it’s not Excalibur. 

The sword was the principal weapon of a knight but was of equal importance symbolically. The blade was symbolic of faith. The knight would keep his blade shining bright as a reminder to keep his soul pure. The scabbard was symbolic of purity and as such had to be kept clean at all times. The handle and pommel – the part that allows the knight to control the sword – signified power so had to be wielded with humility.

Batty in the middle of the Round Table.

This is a replica Round Table around which Arthur and his 12 knights congregated. It is circular to represent that there is no head of the table, implying that everyone who sits there has equal status. The shields of all the knights, including Arthur, span out from the middle and their knights’ names are engraved where they would have sat. The table was believed to have been a dowry from Guinevere.

Me and the knight (Batty in hand).

Now I love a knight as much as the next girl. They’re supposed to be chivalrous and gentlemanly, but it doesn’t hurt to check! The way to assess a knight’s intentions was whether they had their helmet visor raised or closed. For a knight to raise their visor, and thus show you their eyes, meant they had no aggressive intent – and is one of the possible reasons why the military still salute today: a symbolic lifting of the visor.

And once I knew the coast was clear…

Batty and King Arthur’s throne.

It wouldn’t be a king’s abode without a throne. I think Batty looks quite at home! And yes, I spent a little while there too. 😉

I hope you enjoyed your brief tour and quick step into one of Britain’s most famous legends. I’ll be back talking vampires on the weekend with an update about Blood Roses, including a few clues of what to expect.

xxx