KEY FACTS

Title:
The Crystal Cave

Author:
Mary Stewart

Date Published:
1970

Meaning of the Title:
Refers to the place where Merlin first discovers and accepts his power and his Sight. It will also be the place where he has important visions and where he will meet his end.

Setting:
Britain in the 5th century as well as Wales, Less Britain (Brittany), and Ireland

Protagonist:
Merlin the Magician and Enchanter

Antagonist:
Merlin's god or God who uses him to bring about the birth of Arthur

Mood:
Mysterious and suspenseful

Point of View:
First person (Merlin narrates the entire story.)

Genre:
Historical Fiction, Arthurian Legend, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Supernatural, and others.

Tense:
This story is written in the past tense as Merlin tells it in flashback.

Rising Action:
From the beginning of the novel when Merlin is a child of five until the conception of Arthur at Tintagel.

Exposition:
Merlin grows to a man; he meets his father and prophesies his victory in Briton; his father dies and Uther becomes King; Uther's desire for Ygraine leads to the conception of Arthur.

Climax:
Merlin must kill Brithael to assure the conception of Arthur.

Outcome:
Uther repudiates Merlin and is determined to never recognize the son he has just conceived. Merlin holds his friend, Cadal, as he dies and then rides off toward the rising sun.

Major Theme:
The power of destiny or fate.

Minor Themes:
Duty and Loyalty; Good versus Evil; The Sense of Regret