Point of View

The Mists of Avalon is a story told from the perspective of the women, although it is told from a third person omniscient point-of-view. Different chapters are told by different female characters: Igraine, Viviane, Morgaine, Morgause and Gwenhwyfar. Each one of these characters has a distinct voice, so that none of them sound like another. With the different perspectives, a well-fleshed picture takes shape early on. Although the times indicate that women are not respected for their opinions, these women, whether or not their opinions are respected, shape the story and influence the actions that ensue. It is also easy to see how their backgrounds affect their perspectives. Viviane and Morgaine are powerful with the Sight and do the work of the Goddess; therefore, their perspectives are peppered with visions and priestess work that is related to Mother Earth. Morgause is full of ambition and is...