The Ultimate Revelation: Unraveling the Intense Winter King Episode 7 of Arthur & Guinevere - What's in Store for the Legends and Beyond!

Warning: Major spoilers for The Winter King episode 7 below!

Summary

The decision made by Arthur and Guinevere to call off their engagement and pursue marriage with each other instead will have perilous ramifications for Britain. Arthur's decision to listen to his heart and unite with Guinevere in matrimony creates a conflict with King Gorfydd, the father of Ceinwyn, who will seek vengeance.

The adaptation of the book and Arthurian legend in the Winter King introduces a unique love triangle and potentially alters the story's trajectory. Arthur and Guinevere's decision in episode 7 will have dangerous consequences, but how does it differ from the original book and Arthurian legend? MGM's adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's novels takes its time in introducing key characters from the King Arthur myth. While Lancelot or Galahad have yet to make an appearance, Winter King's episode 6 introduces Guinevere, played by Jordan Alexandra, who will eventually become Arthur's queen. The show gives a fresh take on Guinevere, portraying her as the best friend of Ceinwyn (played by Emily John), the daughter of King Gorfydd of Powys (played by Aneirin Hughes).

Arthur's idea of uniting his kingdom with Gorfydd's by marrying Ceinwyn is disrupted when he meets Guinevere. In Episode 7, both Arthur and Guinevere struggle with their growing affection for each other. Bishop Bedwin cautions that abandoning the marriage proposal could have grave implications for Britain. Meanwhile, Ceinwyn and Guinevere have a sibling-like bond, leading Guinevere to deeply regret the thought of betraying their friendship.

Why Arthur Breaks His Betrothal To Marry Guinevere Instead

Winter King introduces a new dynamic to the Arthur and Guinevere romance. In episode 7, Ceinwyn, aware of their growing love, suggests that she and Guinevere share Arthur instead of breaking their friendship. Ceinwyn, driven by her love for Britain, is willing to proceed with the marriage. Despite advice from various sources to prioritize his duty over his heart, Arthur chooses to follow his heart.

In the concluding scenes, he ends his engagement to Ceinwyn, who urges him to escape with Guinevere. Knowing the consequences of their relationship becoming known, particularly for Guinevere's safety, they flee Powys clandestinely. The next morning, Arthur officially proposes to Guinevere, recognizing that making her his wife would protect her and ensure her acceptance by the people of Dumnonia.

Gorfydd Will Want Revenge Over Ceinwyn's Heartbreak

After a tense beginning, Arthur and Gorfydd forged an unexpected bond. They shared a common belief in the importance of unity amidst the impending Saxon invasion. Nevertheless, Gorfydd, being wary of Dumnonia's tumultuous history with Powys, remained skeptical. Arthur's proposal to marry Ceinwyn was regarded as a significant stride towards rebuilding that trust. With Powys as an ally, the nation stood a promising chance of resisting the Saxons.

In the aftermath of Arthur's marriage to Guinevere, any hope of uniting Powys and Dumnonia is completely shattered. Bedwin warned Arthur about the consequences of humiliating Gorfydd, as no parent can bear to witness their child being disgraced. Breaking his engagement with Ceinwyn and immediately marrying her best friend is undoubtedly a deeply hurtful act, and Gorfydd's final encounter with his malevolent nephew Gundleus (Simon Merrells) clearly indicates that he is plotting revenge against Arthur and Guinevere for their betrayal.

Arthur & Guinevere's Marriage Leads To War With Powys In The Books & King Arthur Legends

Departing from both Arthurian legend and Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles trilogy, the series has demonstrated a willingness to explore new paths. It is possible that MGM+'s adaptation will take a different direction from the original material. In the first book, a significant time jump reveals the consequences of Arthur and Guinevere's marriage, which has led to a fierce civil war. After years of relentless conflict, Arthur, in a desperate move, forges a temporary peace with Saxon King Aelle. Although yet to make an appearance on the show, Aelle has been teased in a previous episode. This truce allows Arthur to focus his energies on defeating Powys.

In the first book, Gorfydd plans to adopt future High King Mordred after defeating Arthur, but this is a lie. Similar to Gundleus' attempt to kill Mordred in Avalon, Gorfydd's true plan is to slay the child and seize the throne. Consequently, several fierce battles unfold, occupying the rest of the first novel.

The Arthur/Guinevere romance has been portrayed in various ways, with Thomas Malory's 15th-century work Le Morte d'Arthur often recognized as a defining text. In most renditions, Guinevere is depicted as King Leodegrance's daughter, a close ally of Arthur's late father Uther Pendragon. King Leodegrance suggests the marriage between Arthur and Guinevere as a means to unite their kingdoms. As a wedding gift, he presents Arthur with the Round Table. Additionally, Gorfyddyd is an invention of Cornwell, making the short-lived love triangle between Ceinwyn, Arthur, and Guinevere exclusive to The Winter King.