Chronology of King Arthur’s Reign

This chronology lists the crucial phases and events in King Arthur’s long reign and the years leading to it. Such a brief accounting only hints at the richness of detail and variety found in the various Arthurian sources. The volumes of the Great Pendragon Campaign and other supplements expand on these details significantly.

415–438: Constantin Period

Constantin is elected as the High King of Britain. He establishes the tradition of knighthood and brings peace and stability, defending Britain against invaders until he is murdered.

439–450: Vortigern Period

Duke Vortigern is the power behind the throne during High King Constans’ brief reign. He then consolidates his power, becoming the next High King. The Saxons come to Britain.

451–460: Tyrant Period

High King Vortigern favors the Saxons over his own people, becoming a tyrant. His reach exceeds his grasp; rebellions lead to civil war.

461–468: Uprising Period

Saxons massacre the British nobility during the Night of the Long Knives and seize power. Aurelius Ambrosius, the son of Constantin, overthrows Vortigern. Merlin the Magician establishes his reputation.

469–479: Aurelius Period

High King Aurelius Ambrosius introduces feudalism and heavy warhorses, which allow mounted knights to deliver devastating charges.

480–495: Uther Period

Uther becomes King of Logres after the death of his brother Ambrosius; Uther’s lust for power and the Duchess Ygraine ruins a chance for peace.

496–509: Anarchy Period

The land is without a king and falls to sectarian squabbling. The Saxons make a bid for conquest.

510–518: Boy King Period

CURRENT ERA

King Uther’s bastard child, hidden by Merlin, draws the Sword from the Stone. Arthur, the Boy King of Logres, fights a series of battles unifying Britain, culminating in a great battle against the Saxons at Badon Hill.

519–528: Conquest Period

Arthur consolidates his rule now without the guidance of Merlin; the powers of the Continent are brought to heel.

529–539: Romance Period

Chivalry and romance are in full flower under the influence of the Round Table Knights and Queen Guenever. This is the age of high adventure!

540–547: Tournament Period

The Golden Age of King Arthur comes crashing down as Pestilence and internecine conflict tarnish Camelot's glory and the Wasteland afflicts Logres.

548–557: Grail Quest Period

Britain suffers under the pernicious influence of the Wasteland as Arthur grows weak. The Holy Grail offers a chance for redemption and healing.

558–566: Twilight Period

The Round Table splits and crumbles. Sir Mordred leads a bloody, final uprising, and King Arthur is borne away to Avalon.