Here's why it's considered a medieval romance:
* Chivalric Ideals: The story revolves around King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, embodying the chivalric ideals of honor, courage, loyalty, and courtly love. These themes are central to medieval romances.
* Courtly Love: Many characters engage in relationships that exhibit the characteristics of courtly love, such as unrequited love, idealized beauty, and a focus on the emotional and spiritual aspects of love.
* Adventures and Quests: The narrative is full of thrilling adventures, dangerous quests, and battles that are typical of medieval romance.
* Magic and the Supernatural: The story incorporates elements of magic and the supernatural, such as the Lady of the Lake, Merlin, and the magical sword Excalibur. These fantastical elements were common in medieval romances.
However, "Morte D'Arthur" also exhibits characteristics of other genres, including:
* Historical Fiction: Mallory attempts to weave a historical narrative, drawing upon legends and folklore to create a sense of historical authenticity.
* Tragedy: The story explores themes of betrayal, loss, and the fall of a great kingdom, ultimately culminating in a tragic ending.
* Religious Allegory: There are underlying religious themes and symbolism, particularly around the themes of sin, redemption, and the cycle of life and death.
Therefore, "Morte D'Arthur" can't be simply categorized as a medieval romance. It's a complex and multifaceted work that draws upon a variety of genres, offering a rich and nuanced portrayal of medieval life, love, and chivalry.