A Re-Evaluation of the Proposed Connection between the Nart Sagas and the Arthurian Legends

Abstract

C. Scott Littleton and Ann C. Thomas' assertion that the core of the Arthurian legends is ultimately rooted in a Sarmatian heroic tradition is challenged. It is argued that, at best, the Arthurian legends contain several names and motifs of possible Sarmatian origin that have been borrowed into what Arthurian scholars have long recognized as an inherently Celtic tradition. Several agencies for their introduction into the Arthurian cycle are considered. It is proposed that two names and at least one of the motifs were introduced by Iazyge cataphractarii stationed along Hadrian's Wall in 175 AD. The other motifs, however, are thought to have been introduced at a much later date --possibly by returning members of the crusader population in the East during the twelfth century.