The unrequited love story of Lancelot and Guinevere in “King Arthur” (2004) remains an underrated romance, despite the film’s Blockbuster status. The way Lancelot looks at Guinevere, with Ioan Gruffudd’s smoldering stares, gets me every time. I have a soft spot for unrequited romances.
In this Arthurian adaptation, it’s unclear if Guinevere truly returns Lancelot’s unspoken feelings, as she must marry Arthur for political reasons. Whether Guinevere loves Lancelot (and I think she would if she could choose him freely) is less important than Lancelot’s tragic love for her, which makes their story so epic and unforgettable.
As this month marks the 15th anniversary of the “King Arthur” (2004) premiere, it’s fitting to shine a spotlight on the love story between Guinevere and Lancelot in this film. Specifically, the end battle scene where Lancelot heroically rescues Guinevere because of his love for her.
If you haven’t seen the film yet, there are two versions: the theatrical release and the Director’s Cut. To get the full effect of the unrequited love story, watch the Director’s Cut, as some key Lancelot and Guinevere scenes were cut from the theatrical version. Just a note, the Director’s Cut is unrated and more violent.
In this version of the Arthurian legend, Sir Lancelot is a Sarmatian knight during the Dark Ages, serving the Romans. Arthur is his leader. While there isn’t a round table, Arthur is a devout Christian who dreams of a world of equality and freedom. Just as Lancelot’s fifteen years of service end, the Romans demand he and his fellow knights embark on one more dangerous mission, but things are not as they seem.
Eventually, the Sarmatian knights and Arthur team up with the Woads (Briton rebels) to fight the Saxons and aim to create a Briton free from Roman and Saxon rule. Amidst the chaos, Arthur and Lancelot rescue Guinevere, a young warrior pagan secretly working with Merlin, the Woads’ leader. Guinevere romances Arthur to win him over, but Lancelot falls in love with her bravery, despite being hesitant to join a fight that doesn’t concern him. Ultimately, Lancelot remains loyal to Arthur and Guinevere and decides to fight alongside Arthur, even at the cost of his life. Lancelot’s yearning glances throughout the film reveal his unspoken love story.
During the final battle (“The Battle of Badon Hill”), Lancelot, Arthur, the Knights, Guinevere, and the Woads fight the Saxons. Guinevere faces Cynric in combat but struggles. Seeing her in danger, Lancelot hesitates but chooses to help Guinevere instead of Arthur.
Lancelot rides across the battlefield, goes through fire, and fends off attackers to reach Guinevere. Just as Cynric is about to defeat her, Lancelot intervenes with his sword. Despite their minimal dialogue, Lancelot’s actions speak volumes. He saves Guinevere but is mortally wounded by Cynric’s crossbow.
As Lancelot lies dying, Guinevere, emotionally charged, fights her way to him. She reaches him just as the battle concludes. Arthur defeats Cerdic and the Saxons but cannot save Lancelot. Guinevere sits with Lancelot in his final moments. Their unspoken love story ends with his death.
In the end, King Arthur marries Queen Guinevere, and they plan to rule a new Briton together. The power of Gruffudd’s performance is undeniable. Lancelot saves Guinevere, not for her to choose him, but because he genuinely loves her. His selfless love makes this unrequited romance compelling and memorable.
Is anything more chivalrous and romantic than a knight rescuing his lady in battle? Guinevere, strong and capable, still needed rescuing, and Lancelot’s sacrifice underscores his devotion. His death was his choice, and his valor will live on in the legends of King Arthur and his knights, as well as the love story of Lancelot and Guinevere.
Have you seen “King Arthur” (2004)? What are your thoughts on Lancelot and Guinevere’s story in this film? Did you find Lancelot’s rescue of Guinevere romantic in the end battle scene? Let me know your thoughts!
