Firelord (novel)

Firelord is a historical fiction novel written by Parke Godwin, published in 1980. The novel reimagines the story of King Arthur, portraying him as a Celtic chieftain in Roman Britain struggling against the encroaching Saxon invaders and the fading influence of the Roman Empire.

The book diverges significantly from traditional Arthurian legend. Arthur is depicted as Artorius, a Romanized Briton who commands a cavalry regiment. The narrative focuses on the political and cultural tensions of the time, exploring the clash between Celtic paganism, Roman civilization, and the emerging Christian faith. Merlin is presented as a druid and a political advisor, not a sorcerer. Guinevere, known as Gwenhwyfar in the novel, is a complex character with her own political ambitions and agency.

Firelord is the first book in Godwin's Arthurian cycle. It is followed by Beloved Exile (1984) and The Last Rainbow (1985). The series is known for its realistic depiction of the historical period and its nuanced portrayal of the characters. Godwin’s interpretation of the Arthurian mythos emphasizes the historical and cultural context, offering a grounded and believable explanation for the legendary events. The title, Firelord, likely refers to Arthur's role as a leader in battle, inspiring his troops and representing a force against the invading Saxons.