Dreams and Destiny

Destiny is a very clear theme in this book. Merlyn states many times that he realizes that young Arthur is his destiny. He finds this out through his dreams. Sheelagh also has an awareness of destiny. She discovers her destiny through dreams as well. She knows that she is going to have two sons with Donuil, and she knows the names of the sons. She and Merlyn have such faith in their dreams that when Donuil chooses to stay behind to help his father and they contemplate his safety, Merlyn reminds Sheelagh that Donuil will be fine because he has to come back so they can have their children together. Aunt Luceiia makes the argument that destiny comes from God, and Merlyn seriously considers this. He realizes that it might be so.

Merlyn believes that it is Arthur's destiny to grow up to unite all the...