The Once and Future King (5)

T.H. White. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. 1939.

Why read it? Merlyn teaches King Arthur the art of leadership. Part of his training was in learning to live with the animals and gain their perspective. Finally, he founded the Round Table. Merlyn is a most amazing character. A delightful and imaginative tale of what was to become known as Camelot. And a great deal of wisdom.

Ideas:

“There is one fairly good reason for fighting—and that is, if the other man starts it.” p. 222.

“Wrongs have to be redressed by reason, not by force.” p. 223.

“You can always spot the villain…in the last resort, it is ultimately the man who strikes the first blow.” p. 223.

“…your reign will be an endless series of petty battles…in which the poor man will be the only one who dies.” p. 225.

Arthur: “I don’t think things ought to be done because you are able to do them; I think they should be done because you ought to do them.” p. 235.

To be continued.