Igraine

In Arthurian tradition, Igraine is married to Gorlois when Uther becomes determined to possess her. Merlin disguises Uther so that he can enter Tintagel, and Arthur is conceived before or around the time of Gorlois’s death.

Later versions differ sharply over Igraine’s knowledge, consent and subsequent marriage. Igraine’s story provides the dynastic origin of Arthur and exposes the coercive politics behind heroic genealogy. Igraine was born in Britain (legendary).

In Mary Stewart’s The Crystal Cave, as Ambrosius and Uther Pendragon contest the fractured island, Merlin becomes adviser, prophet and political instrument. His role in Uther’s pursuit of Igraine leads to the conception of Arthur, binding personal guilt to the future of Britain. Stewart grounds the familiar legend in post-Roman warfare while leaving room for a genuine but restrained supernatural gift. Further fictional perspectives on Igraine can be found in Mary Stewart’s The Hollow Hills.