Books

First editions, first impressions, of the author's epic tetralogy, the most significant contribution to Arthurian literature in the 20th century. Based on source material in Thomas Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur, White's work brought the mythological matter of Britain to new generations of readers. The Once and Future King volume comprises the new tale "The Candle in the Wind", and reworked versions of the previous three books, of which The Witch in the Wood is renamed "The Queen of Air and Darkness". The tetralogy was immediately influential, inspiring works such as Lerner and Loewe's Camelot (1960) and Walt Disney's animated feature The Sword in the Stone (1963) Four works, octavo. Original cloth, bindings and lettering in various colours, top edge of The Witch in the Wood green. With dust jackets. Witch in the Wood with loosely inserted mailing card from William Heinemann; Once and Future King with ownership inscription on front free endpaper, "Adach Capt. Weeton, April 58", and old ink price on rear free endpaper. Bumps to spine ends, light foxing to edges, Once and Future King front inner hinge partially cracked but firm; jacket edges with a few shallow chips, creases, and short closed tears, first three jackets slightly soiled but bright, Once and Future King somewhat damp-stained, Ill-Made Knight with small tape repairs to verso, the first and third jackets price-clipped: a very good set in like jackets.

The Once and Future King is a novel by T. H. White that chronicles the saga of King Arthur. It is composed of several works that were written separately and later compiled into the full version known today. This modern Arthurian legend is recognized for its unique combination of chivalry, legend, and a touch of whimsy, presenting a 'once' traditional medieval world that eventually evolves into a 'future' reflective of contemporary society.