The last episode of Merlin, entitled “The Diamond of the Day, Part 2,” culminates in Merlin revealing his magic to Arthur in a desperate attempt to save his life, only for Arthur to succumb to a fatal wound inflicted by Mordred. Arthur, finally accepting Merlin’s destiny, entrusts him with the task of returning him to the Isle of Avalon, where he hopes to one day rise again when Albion needs him most.
The Diamond of the Day: A Bitter End
The finale is a heart-wrenching crescendo of intertwined plotlines that had been building throughout the series. Mordred, having learned his destined fate to kill Arthur, wounds him mortally with a sword blessed in his blood. As Arthur weakens, Merlin is forced to make the agonizing decision to reveal his magic, breaking the long-held secret and revealing his true identity as a powerful sorcerer to the king he has so devotedly served.
This revelation is initially met with shock and disbelief from Arthur, who grapples with the realization that his closest companion has been living a double life. However, as Arthur’s condition deteriorates, he witnesses the raw power of Merlin’s magic firsthand, understanding its purpose and the sacrifices Merlin has made to protect him and Camelot.
The majority of the episode follows Merlin’s desperate journey to Avalon with the dying Arthur, facing perilous landscapes and inner turmoil. Throughout this journey, Arthur slowly comes to terms with Merlin’s magic, acknowledging the lies and deception that were born from necessity, not malice. Ultimately, upon reaching the Lake of Avalon, Arthur breathes his last, entrusting Merlin with the hope of his return when Albion is in need. The episode ends with a poignant montage of Merlin’s immortality, showing him still guarding Arthur’s legacy in modern times, a testament to his unwavering devotion and the timeless nature of the legend.
Unraveling the Mysteries: Key Events in the Finale
The last episode isn’t just a final goodbye; it’s a culmination of years of storytelling, filled with significant moments that tie together loose ends and solidify the core themes of the series.
- The Revelation of Magic: This is arguably the most pivotal moment. Arthur’s initial reaction is a mix of betrayal and fear, mirroring the societal prejudice against magic that has permeated Camelot. However, faced with imminent death and witnessing Merlin’s selfless actions, Arthur eventually accepts and understands the necessity of Merlin’s secret.
- Arthur’s Acceptance of Destiny: Dying, Arthur grapples with the prophecy of his demise and the betrayal by Mordred. He acknowledges the need for Merlin’s magic to protect Camelot, understanding that destiny, while seemingly fixed, can be shaped by actions and choices.
- Merlin’s Journey to Avalon: The trek to Avalon is physically and emotionally demanding. Merlin faces the harsh reality of his failure to prevent Arthur’s death, struggling with guilt and self-doubt. The journey serves as a final test of his unwavering loyalty and resilience.
- The Lake of Avalon: This mythical location provides a visually stunning and emotionally resonant backdrop for Arthur’s final moments. It’s a place of magic, hope, and the promise of a future return. Arthur’s final words to Merlin, filled with trust and anticipation, solidify the legend.
- Merlin’s Immortality: The final scene, featuring Merlin in modern times, driving a pickup truck near the lake, underscores the timeless nature of the Arthurian legend and the enduring responsibility that Merlin carries. It’s a bittersweet ending, highlighting both his unwavering devotion and his eternal loneliness.
FAQs: Deep Diving into the Finale
Here are some frequently asked questions about the final episode of Merlin, providing deeper insights into the plot and its implications.
What exactly caused Arthur’s death?
Arthur died from a mortal wound inflicted by Mordred with a sword forged in his blood. This sword, blessed with Mordred’s life force, proved to be fatally poisonous, making it impossible for even Merlin’s magic to fully heal him. It was the destined end foretold by the prophecies surrounding Mordred.
Why didn’t Merlin just magically heal Arthur completely?
This is a point of much debate amongst fans. The show implies that the sword’s enchantment was too powerful, even for Merlin. Moreover, Arthur’s fate, tied to the prophecies and his role as the once and future king, played a significant role. While Merlin slowed the progression of the wound and kept Arthur alive long enough to reach Avalon, he couldn’t fully reverse the damage inflicted by the magically charged blade. There is a sense of inevitability woven into the narrative, where some wounds are simply beyond even magic’s reach.
What was the significance of the Lake of Avalon?
The Lake of Avalon is a mythical place in Arthurian legend, a gateway to the otherworld and a place of healing and rest. It is believed to be the place where Arthur will eventually return when Britain needs him most. In the Merlin finale, it represents hope and the continuation of the Arthurian legacy. It’s where Arthur is laid to rest, awaiting his destined return.
Did Arthur truly understand and forgive Merlin before he died?
Yes, the episode clearly shows Arthur coming to terms with Merlin’s magic and the reasons for his deception. He expresses understanding and gratitude towards Merlin, entrusting him with the task of returning him to Avalon and holding onto the hope of his future return. While there was initial shock and disbelief, Arthur ultimately recognized the necessity of Merlin’s actions and the depth of his loyalty. His final words are filled with trust and affection.
What is the meaning of Merlin’s immortality at the end?
Merlin’s immortality underscores the timeless nature of the Arthurian legend. It signifies his enduring role as the protector of Arthur’s legacy and the guardian of Albion. The ending suggests that Merlin will continue to watch over the world, awaiting the day when Arthur will rise again. However, it also hints at the burden of his immortality, a solitary existence dedicated to a promise he made long ago.
Why did Mordred betray Arthur?
Mordred’s betrayal stems from the prophecies that foretold he would be the one to kill Arthur. He felt ostracized and feared, leading him to believe that Arthur was a threat to him. Additionally, Morgana manipulated Mordred, fueling his resentment and driving him towards fulfilling the prophecy. He felt justified in his actions, believing he was protecting himself and his kind.
What happened to Guinevere after Arthur’s death?
The episode does not explicitly show what happens to Guinevere. However, given her position as Queen, it is heavily implied that she continued to rule Camelot in Arthur’s absence, becoming a wise and just leader who upheld his ideals. The narrative focuses primarily on Merlin and Arthur’s final journey, leaving Guinevere’s future somewhat open to interpretation.
Why didn’t the other knights help Arthur more?
While the knights fought bravely against Mordred’s forces, the sword’s enchantment prevented them from fully protecting Arthur. The focus shifts to Merlin’s efforts to save Arthur’s life, highlighting the magical nature of the threat and the limitations of even the most valiant knights. The narrative emphasizes the destiny aspect of the situation.
Is there any chance of a Merlin revival or sequel?
Despite the series ending in 2012, the possibility of a revival or sequel remains a persistent topic among fans. While there are no concrete plans at this time, the enduring popularity of the show and the richness of the Arthurian legend make it a viable option for future storytelling. Any potential revival would likely need to address Merlin’s modern-day existence and the circumstances surrounding Arthur’s potential return.
What was the symbolism of the Diamond of the Day?
The “Diamond of the Day” title refers to the promise of a brighter future that Arthur represented. He was meant to usher in a golden age for Camelot and Albion. However, his death casts a shadow over that future, highlighting the fragility of hope and the constant struggle between light and darkness. It is a reminder that even the brightest diamonds can be shattered.
What does Arthur’s return signify for Albion in the future?
Arthur’s potential return represents the renewal of hope and the restoration of justice to Albion. In the Arthurian legend, he is destined to return when the land is in its greatest need, suggesting that his return will coincide with a time of significant turmoil and oppression. He is the symbol of hope and the embodiment of the just and rightful ruler.
Why did the writers choose such a bittersweet ending?
The bittersweet ending reflects the complex and enduring nature of the Arthurian legend. It acknowledges the tragedy of Arthur’s death while simultaneously offering a glimmer of hope for the future. It allows the series to remain true to the source material while also providing closure for the characters and the audience. It is an ending that is both heartbreaking and ultimately inspiring, capturing the essence of the Arthurian mythos.