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The women of
Camelot have often been overshadowed by the men; the stainless king,
noble knights, and mage Merlin possessed sufficient complexity to
entertain all audiences. Just as the men of the legend have overshadowed the
women, so, too, have male authors, translators, and artists enjoyed a
greater degree of recognition. There are, however, a number of female artists
and illustrators who have subjected the legend to their own gaze and gifts. The
translations of Lady Charlotte Guest, writings of Jessie Weston, and works
of Sara Teasdale have greatly enriched Arthurian lore. Julia Margaret Cameron
brought her unique vision to Tennyson's Idylls of the King and produced
the first series of photographic images to accompany the legend. Jessie M. King
not only reproduced the legend in her line drawings, but perpetuated the tales in
works of stained glass and batik. Many other women have treated the Arthurian
legend in a manner that merits attention, and the following creations, renditions,
and translations are a celebration of those contributions and skills.
-- Page design and original photography©
by Katherine Marsh
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