<P>An indepth work on the origins of the Merlin of Arthurian legend, this book examines early texts, thirteenth century romances focusing particularly on Merlin as a character, rather than those where Merlin is a background cast member. The outline here starts with looking at the genre and the place of fantasy, moving on to consider the attitudes towards magic and magic-users in medieval times. Main works considered are Geoffrey of Monmouth's <EM>Historia Regum Britanniae</EM> and <EM>Vita Merlini</EM>; the Vulgate cycle, <EM>Suite du Merlin</EM>; and finally Malory's work. The author asserts that each portrays a different approach to Merlin but all are tied to history and to the Christian religion.</P>