Here's a breakdown of what we "know" and what's been imagined:
What We Know (or Don't Know) from Traditional Arthurian Legend:
* Merlin's Origin: He is generally considered a magical being, born from the union of a demon and a human woman (though some sources suggest he was sired by a king and raised by fairies).
* Early Childhood: There are brief mentions of Merlin being a prodigy, possessing extraordinary wisdom and magical abilities from a young age.
* Meeting the King: Merlin is introduced as a young but already established sorcerer when he meets the young King Uther Pendragon. He helps him win the throne and later helps conceive and raise Arthur.
* Merlin's Role: He becomes Arthur's mentor, advisor, and protector, guiding the king and using his magic to shape the kingdom and protect it from threats.
The "Lost Years" in Fiction and Interpretation:
* Training and Development: Many stories fill this gap by depicting Merlin's training under various teachers, honing his magical skills and exploring the intricacies of magic and the world.
* Trials and Adventures: Some tales focus on Merlin's journeys, encounters with other magical beings, and adventures that shaped him into the powerful wizard he becomes.
* Personal Growth: Authors often explore Merlin's inner struggles, his relationship with his own magic, and his evolving understanding of the world and its challenges.
* Relationship with Magic: Writers explore the nature of Merlin's powers, his connection to the natural world, and the potential for his magic to be used for good or evil.
Popular Examples:
* T.H. White's "The Once and Future King" offers a comprehensive exploration of Merlin's life, including his childhood, training, and his relationship with Arthur.
* Mary Stewart's "The Crystal Cave" and "The Hollow Hills" delve into Merlin's early life, his encounters with other magical beings, and his role in the shaping of Britain.
* The "Merlin" TV series explores Merlin's early years as a young sorcerer and his journey to becoming the legendary wizard.
Conclusion:
The "Lost Years of Merlin" are a blank canvas for storytelling, offering endless opportunities to explore his origins, development, and motivations. While traditional Arthurian legend provides a basic framework, modern authors and storytellers have used this period to create compelling narratives that delve into the complexities of magic, destiny, and the human condition.