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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Round Table
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The table at which the knights of King *Arthur sat, its shape avoiding any disputes over precedence (as with the table at *John o'Groats). It was introduced to Arthurian legend by the Norman cleric Wace in the 12C, and later tradition added that it had been given to Arthur as part of Guinevere's dowry. One seat was kept vacant (the Siege Perilous, or dangerous seat), reserved for the knight who would complete the quest for the *Holy Grail; its rightful occupant turned out to be *Galahad. Since about 1400 there has been in the Great Hall at *Winchester a round table described as King Arthur's (5.5m/18ft in diameter, attached now to a wall). The wood has been dated scientifically to the 14C. It was given its coat of paint by order of *Henry VIII in 1522 for a visit of the emperor *Charles V.
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