Feminism Say What?

So far while reading these excerpts the big question in class has been, is this pro-feminism and female equality?  After reading the first two passages I still cannot give a definite answer because this is so absolutely confusing, but in my mind it does lean towards the not-so feminist side.  The way this is written definitely has some feminist views and over-arching themes but they only shadow what is really going on.  There are a few instances in which this occurs through the story, but what really stuck out to me was on page 178,

"The little blue-painted girl who had borne the fertilizing blood was drawn down into the arms of a sinewy old hunter, and Morgaine saw her briefly struggle and cry out, go down under his body, her legs opening to the irresistible force of nature in them. She saw without sight, her eyes closed against the glare of the torch, hearing the cries."

I could be wrong, but in my mind pro-feminist works that show a female dominated society with an all-powerful female leader/goddess are not also in the same instance alright with old hunters forcing themselves on little flower girls... So, what is really going on here? 

Was Lacelet (Galahad) right?

Is Avalon real? Is it a different real from the world at conflict? A peaceful place away from life and death?

Kickass Goddess

 While reading the first part of the Mist of Avalon I wasn’t sure how this story of magical women relates to the story of Arthur. Nevertheless, I noticed some similarities and difference between this story and other stories we have read throughout the semester. First, the story has a powerful and magical character which is present in most stories of Arthur; however, in this reading, that character is a woman. We have not yet read about a powerful woman other than Guinevere.  Morgaine, a power priestess, has powers, and athletic ability that seems to be greater than Galahad. When they are climbing a steep slope, she climbs it with ease while Galahad struggles to keep up. Also, she isn’t afraid to show her legs which goes against societal norms. It is refreshing to read about a female character with great wisdom, strength, power, and beauty.  Another essential theme in readings about Arthur is nature. In this except the weather and beauty of Avalon is described in detail. For example, “The sun seemed to burn more brightly, the clouds to move through the sky like great wings against the dazzling, sparkling air, every bud of clover in the grass shimmered…” (p.154). Lastly, the forbidden love between Lancelot and Guinevere is found in many of the readings we have read and, in this reading, forbidden love is a vital theme. Morgaine is in love with Galahad who is her cousin and the head priestess’s son. She struggles to resists his advances but ultimately gives in. Women and men are often tempted in stories of Arthur. Overall, the Mist of Avalon is an exciting story with kickass women.