Merlin the magician Merlin is one of the most fascinating figures in British mythology. He was a wizard, a poet, a teacher and an advisor to kings. His story is full of mystery and magic. Today, we think of Merlin as a wise old man with a beard and a cloak who had magical powers. Ancient myths describe him as being half human; the son of a woman and a demon, and they say he could turn into a bird or cloud! In the 6th century the Kings of Britain were fighting great battles with foreign enemies. News of Merlin's intelligence and magical abilities reached King Uther, and he became the King's advisor. One day, Merlin had a vision that the King's son, Arthur, was in great danger. Merlin advised the King to send his son to live in the forest. As young Check these words Arthur was growing up in the forest, Merlin became guardian and teacher. When Uther died, the noblemen of the country stan fighting each other for the throne. To put an end to fighting, Merlin created a contest to choose the new He stuck the magic sword, Excalibur, into a large stone said whoever pulled it out was the true King. All strongest men in the land tried to free the sword but fal Then Arthur, who was looking for a sword for a lo tournament, saw the sword and lifted it out easily. became king and made Merlin his special advisor. Even today, people wonder if Merlin was more than jus character of medieval stories. Real or not, Merlin continu to fascinate people whenever they hear his story. 3