(flourished circa 1470) English author of Le Morte Darthur (“The Death of Arthur”). Even in the 16th century Malory's identity was unknown, but he is tentatively identified as a Welshman and knight who was imprisoned at various times. Le Morte Darthur (completed circa 1470) was the first account of Arthurian legend in English prose. Though based on French romances, it differs from its models in its emphasis on the brotherhood of the knights rather than on courtly love and on the conflicts of loyalty that destroy the fellowship. Only one extant manuscript predates its printing by William Caxton in 1485.

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