Igraine ~ Mother of Arthur

Igraine was the wife of Duke Gorlois of Cornwall and later Uther Pendragon, the king of Britain. The details of Igraine's parentage were seldom related. According to John of Glastonbury, Igraine was the descendant of Helaius, the nephew of of Joseph of Arimathea.

Duke Gorlois was one of Uther's most powerful allies against the Saxons. During a victory celebration Gorlois brought his wife along. Uther fell in love with Igraine at first sight. So obvious was Uther in his passion that Gorlois left the celebration early. Uther was enraged that the duke would depart without his leave and threatened Gorlois with destruction if he did not ask forgiveness. Gorlois ignored Uther's threats.

Uther was so obsessed with Igraine that he sought Merlin's aid in satisfying his desire. Merlin transformed Uther so that the king looked exactly like Gorlois. That night, Uther took Igraine to bed, and Arthur was conceived. When Gorlois was killed in battle, Uther took Igraine as his wife and queen.