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* AudienceSurrogate: In a way, his knowledge of Merlin's destiny and the fates of the other characters makes him one for people who are already familiar with the Arthurian Legend and other adaptions.
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[[folder:King Alined]]
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
to:
[[folder:King Alined]]
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.Olaf]]
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will startCreator/MarkLewisJones
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay awar. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the FiveKingdoms. Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into war.the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a
The ruler of one of the Five
Deleted line(s) 861,883 (click to see context) :
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:King Olaf]]
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/MarkLewisJones
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
----
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:King Olaf]]
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/MarkLewisJones
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
----
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[/folder]]
to:
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[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
to:
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of
A warband
Added DiffLines:
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* EvilCounterpart: To Arthur. Alined's entire relationship with Trickler is a evil and twisted reflection of Arthur's friendship with Merlin. While Arthur can at times be unnecessarily mean to Merlin, this is just part of their dynamic as VitriolicBestBuds and genuinely considers him a friend. Alined however it outright abusive to Trickler, and only keeps him around since his magic can help him.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Trickler]]
!!Trickler
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kevin Eldon
The court jester to King Alined, and a secret sorcerer who helps him in his plans to drive the Five Kingdoms into war by enchanting Arthur and Vivian.
----
* EvilCounterpart: To Merlin. Trickler's entire entire relationship with Alined is a evil and twisted reflection of Merlin's friendship with Arthur. While Merlin fears Arthur finding out about his magic, they are genuinely friedns and he uses it to protect him both out of loyalty and to complete their respective destinies. Trickler lives in fear of Alined however, and only uses his magic to help him to avoid further abuse.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
----
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* EvilCounterpart: To Arthur. Alined's entire relationship with Trickler is a evil and twisted reflection of Arthur's friendship with Merlin. While Arthur can at times be unnecessarily mean to Merlin, this is just part of their dynamic as VitriolicBestBuds and genuinely considers him a friend. Alined however it outright abusive to Trickler, and only keeps him around since his magic can help him.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Trickler]]
!!Trickler
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kevin Eldon
The court jester to King Alined, and a secret sorcerer who helps him in his plans to drive the Five Kingdoms into war by enchanting Arthur and Vivian.
----
* EvilCounterpart: To Merlin. Trickler's entire entire relationship with Alined is a evil and twisted reflection of Merlin's friendship with Arthur. While Merlin fears Arthur finding out about his magic, they are genuinely friedns and he uses it to protect him both out of loyalty and to complete their respective destinies. Trickler lives in fear of Alined however, and only uses his magic to help him to avoid further abuse.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
----
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* CourtMage: It's implied that she was this for Uther, until her magic caused Ygraine's death and Uther to declare war on magic.
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* CompositeCharacter: With Merlin. She's a mysterious sorceress who as it turns out used to be friends with Uther, a member of his court, and responsible for Arthur's birth (though instead of a BedTrick she used magic on Ygraine so she could conceive Arthur).
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[[Characters/MerlinMainCast Main Cast]] ([[Characters/MerlinTheCharacter Merlin]] | [[Characters/MerlinArthurPendragon Arthur Pendragon]] | [[Characters/MerlinMorgana Morgana]]) | '''Others''']]-]]]
to:
[[Characters/MerlinMainCast Main Cast]] ([[Characters/MerlinTheCharacter Merlin]] | [[Characters/MerlinArthurPendragon Arthur Pendragon]] | [[Characters/MerlinMorgana Morgana]]) | '''Others''']]-]]]'''Others''' ([[Characters/MerlinKnightsOfTheRoundTable Knights of the Round Table]])]]-]]]
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!!!Knights of the Round Table
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' SantiagoCabrera
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' SantiagoCabrera
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
to:
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
[[folder:Owain]]
!!Owain
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A
Changed line(s) 113,181 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: He's usually raised by the Lady of the Lake after his father king Ban is killed. Here he's a commoner whose family were killed by bandits when he was a child.
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Traditionally Lancelot is the adopted son of the Lady of the Lake while Elyan is the son of his cousin. In this version he's not related to Elyan and doesn't have any connection to Freya.
%%* WhiteStallion
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Traditionally Lancelot is the adopted son of the Lady of the Lake while Elyan is the son of his cousin. In this version he's not related to Elyan and doesn't have any connection to Freya.
%%* WhiteStallion
to:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: AgeLift: He's usually raised by seemingly the Lady of the Lake after his father king Ban is killed. Here he's a commoner whose family were killed by bandits when he was a child.
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her andsame age as Arthur.
*BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only''DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early onin the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. Inthe Arthurian legends, their love affair Legend, Owain is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin,reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]]. Noticeably he's killed several episodes before the appearance of the Questing Beast, which in the Legend is responsible for him and Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
meeting.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation:Traditionally Lancelot is the adopted son of the Lady of the Lake while Elyan is He's not the son of his cousin. In Morgana or the nephew of Arthur in this version he's not related to Elyan version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and doesn't have any no connection was made between the two prior to Freya.
%%* WhiteStallionthis.
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and
*
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only''
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin,
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation:
%%* WhiteStallion
Changed line(s) 184,189 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sir Leon]]
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/leon-1_3351.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Rupert Young
A Knight of Camelot seen throughout series 2 and made a semi-regular in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/leon-1_3351.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Rupert Young
A Knight of Camelot seen throughout series 2 and made a semi-regular in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/leon-1_3351.jpg]]
!!Pellinore
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
A
Changed line(s) 191,214 (click to see context) from:
* ActionHero: He's a Knight of Camelot who uses combat to solve missions.
* AscendedExtra: Goes from being a background Knight to one of Arthur's closest friends.
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend. However by coincidence his name has similarities with King Leodegrance and he has some similarities with Sir Lionel.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning of the next. Later seemed to have died during an attack on his patrol but survived certain death by drinking from a magical cup given to him by the druids and returned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. He's even in one of the last shots.]]
* AscendedExtra: Goes from being a background Knight to one of Arthur's closest friends.
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend. However by coincidence his name has similarities with King Leodegrance and he has some similarities with Sir Lionel.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning of the next. Later seemed to have died during an attack on his patrol but survived certain death by drinking from a magical cup given to him by the druids and returned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. He's even in one of the last shots.]]
to:
* ActionHero: He's a Knight of Camelot who uses combat to solve missions.
* AscendedExtra: GoesAdaptationalBackstoryChange: Has been changed from being a background Knight to one of Arthur's closest friends.
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household,king and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two ally of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The TearsArthur to just a knight of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing onCamelot.
*BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of Merlin.
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend. However by coincidence his name has similaritiessorts with King Leodegrance and Arthur in the Legend, but here he has some similarities with Sir Lionel.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: Inis simply one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study knights.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character inan attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt atminor character killed by the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning[[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the next. Later seemed to have died during an attack on his patrol but survived certain death Week]].
* RaceLift: Is played bydrinking from a magical cup given to him by the druids and returned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. black actor.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He'seven not the father of Percival in one this version and he isn't the brother of the last shots.]]Fisher King.
* AscendedExtra: Goes
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household,
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on
*
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend. However by coincidence his name has similarities
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning
* RaceLift: Is played by
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's
Changed line(s) 217,224 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Gwaine]]
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/gwaine_4553.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EoinMacken
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside that counts".-]
A man who saves Arthur during a brawl at a town tavern, Gwaine is given hospitality at Camelot until his injuries heal. He resents nobles and is secretly the son of a knight. He helps Merlin in protecting Arthur from danger during the melee. He is a future [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gawain Knight of the Round Table]]. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/gwaine_4553.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EoinMacken
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside that counts".-]
A man who saves Arthur during a brawl at a town tavern, Gwaine is given hospitality at Camelot until his injuries heal. He resents nobles and is secretly the son of a knight. He helps Merlin in protecting Arthur from danger during the melee. He is a future [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gawain Knight of the Round Table]]. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/gwaine_4553.jpg]]
!!Bedivere
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside that counts".-]
A
Changed line(s) 226,281 (click to see context) from:
%%* ActionHero
* AdaptationalNameChange: Traditionally his name is Gawain.
* AgeLift: He's the same age as Arthur in this version.
* TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most of the time.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Seems to have adopted this stance toward Merlin and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
* BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the beginning.
* BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and fun-loving.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
%%* {{Hunk}}
* KilledOffForReal: As of ''The Diamond of the Day Part 2.''
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
* TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PermaStubble
* PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the most humorous characters in the series, especially alongside Merlin.
* ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the collar of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and snark.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Gwaine is traditionally the son of Morgause and nephew of Arthur, which isn't the case in this version. This also means him and Mordred aren't half-brothers.
* AdaptationalNameChange: Traditionally his name is Gawain.
* AgeLift: He's the same age as Arthur in this version.
* TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most of the time.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Seems to have adopted this stance toward Merlin and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
* BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the beginning.
* BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and fun-loving.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
%%* {{Hunk}}
* KilledOffForReal: As of ''The Diamond of the Day Part 2.''
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
* TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PermaStubble
* PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the most humorous characters in the series, especially alongside Merlin.
* ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the collar of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and snark.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Gwaine is traditionally the son of Morgause and nephew of Arthur, which isn't the case in this version. This also means him and Mordred aren't half-brothers.
to:
* AgeLift: He's
* TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Seems to have adopted this stance toward Merlin and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
* BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the beginning.
* BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and fun-loving.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra:
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
%%* {{Hunk}}
* KilledOffForReal: As of ''The Diamond of the Day Part 2.''
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
* TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PermaStubble
* PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the most humorous characters in the series, especially alongside Merlin.
* ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the collar of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and snark.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Gwaine is traditionally the son of Morgause and nephew of Arthur, which isn't the case in this version. This also means him and Mordred aren't half-brothers.
Changed line(s) 284,291 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Elyan]]
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/elyan_8791.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Adetomiwa Edun
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one of those people, never settled down, never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him".-]
Guinevere's estranged brother and only sibling. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/elyan_8791.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Adetomiwa Edun
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one of those people, never settled down, never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him".-]
Guinevere's estranged brother and only sibling. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of
Guinevere's estranged brother
Changed line(s) 293,311 (click to see context) from:
%%* ActionHero
* [[AloofOlderBrother Aloof Younger Brother]]: Often away traveling from one place to another and never even visited Gwen when their father died.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
%%* BadassNormal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
* BlackDudeDiesFirst: {{Averted}}.
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur has brought them to, he comments: "It's gotta be better than that cave."
* DeathInTheLimelight: In the "The Dark Tower". In series 3, Elyan is introduced and knighted. The writers went on to do absolutely nothing with his character until mid-series 5, in an episode which explored his relationship to his sister, made him the key figure in a rescue mission, and gave him more lines than in any previous episodes. Any viewer could see the giant bullseye on his head from the very first scene. Elyan did get a DayInTheLimelight episode in season 4 (that revolved around him being BrainwashedAndCrazy and trying to murder Arthur) but he's still an excellent example of this trope.
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* InTheHood
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LongLostSibling: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MrFanservice
* NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.
* [[AloofOlderBrother Aloof Younger Brother]]: Often away traveling from one place to another and never even visited Gwen when their father died.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
%%* BadassNormal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
* BlackDudeDiesFirst: {{Averted}}.
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur has brought them to, he comments: "It's gotta be better than that cave."
* DeathInTheLimelight: In the "The Dark Tower". In series 3, Elyan is introduced and knighted. The writers went on to do absolutely nothing with his character until mid-series 5, in an episode which explored his relationship to his sister, made him the key figure in a rescue mission, and gave him more lines than in any previous episodes. Any viewer could see the giant bullseye on his head from the very first scene. Elyan did get a DayInTheLimelight episode in season 4 (that revolved around him being BrainwashedAndCrazy and trying to murder Arthur) but he's still an excellent example of this trope.
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* InTheHood
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LongLostSibling: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MrFanservice
* NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.
to:
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
%%* BadassNormal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
*
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur
*
* BigBad: The
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this
*
*
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%*
*
%%* KilledOffForReal
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LongLostSibling: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother.
%%* MrFanservice
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
Changed line(s) 313,318 (click to see context) from:
* RaceLift: The legendary Elyan was known as "Elyan the White". In the series, he's played by a black actor. Granted, "the White" would have referred to his pure soul, but it's still pretty funny.
* RelatedInTheAdaptation: He's Guinevere's brother in this version.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that he and Guinevere were estranged for years.
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' to his sister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Elyan in the Arthurian Legend was the son of Bors the Younger, who was the cousin of Lancelot. This is not the case in this version.
* RelatedInTheAdaptation: He's Guinevere's brother in this version.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that he and Guinevere were estranged for years.
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' to his sister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Elyan in the Arthurian Legend was the son of Bors the Younger, who was the cousin of Lancelot. This is not the case in this version.
to:
* RaceLift: The legendary Elyan was known as "Elyan the White". In the series, OurDragonsAreDifferent: Can talk perform magic, have incredibly long life spans and be controlled by Dragonlords.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he'splayed by about to die of old age when the series end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches ablack actor. Granted, "the White" ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would havereferred to his pure soul, but it's still pretty funny.
gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
*RelatedInTheAdaptation: He's Guinevere's brother SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in this version.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justifiednature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, andGuinevere were estranged for years.
then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
*ShipperOnDeck: At UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of hissister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at theend fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
trust.
*UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Elyan in the Arthurian Legend WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was the son of Bors the Younger, who was the cousin of Lancelot. This is not the case in this version.a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have
*
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and
*
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the
%%* TokenMinority
*
Changed line(s) 321,328 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Percival]]
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/percival_7190.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/TomHopper
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
A warrior who arrives with Lancelot in order to help Arthur and his loyalists take back Camelot. Having showed up in the very last episode of the third season, we learn very little about him. He appeared in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/percival_7190.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/TomHopper
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
A warrior who arrives with Lancelot in order to help Arthur and his loyalists take back Camelot. Having showed up in the very last episode of the third season, we learn very little about him. He appeared in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
A warrior who arrives with Lancelot in order to help Arthur and his loyalists take back Camelot. Having showed up in the very last episode
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the
Changed line(s) 330,358 (click to see context) from:
%%* ActionHero
* AdaptationalBadass: In the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
%%* {{Hunk}}
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
%%* MasterSwordsman
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Pellinore or the nephew of the Fisher King.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
* AdaptationalBadass: In the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
%%* {{Hunk}}
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
%%* MasterSwordsman
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Pellinore or the nephew of the Fisher King.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
to:
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen
*
*
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger:
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
%%* {{Hunk}}
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
%%* MasterSwordsman
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Pellinore or the nephew of the Fisher King.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
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!!!Other Knights
[[folder:Owain]]
!!Owain
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kyle Redmond-Jones
A knight who was the first to accept the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
[[folder:Owain]]
!!Owain
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kyle Redmond-Jones
A knight who was the first to accept the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
to:
[[folder:Owain]]
!!Owain
[[folder:Nimueh]]
!!Nimueh
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/nimueh_7083.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
A knight
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
The sorceress who
Changed line(s) 368,370 (click to see context) from:
* AgeLift: He's seemingly the same age as Arthur.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]]. Noticeably he's killed several episodes before the appearance of the Questing Beast, which in the Legend is responsible for him and Arthur meeting.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morgana or the nephew of Arthur in this version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and no connection was made between the two prior to this.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]]. Noticeably he's killed several episodes before the appearance of the Questing Beast, which in the Legend is responsible for him and Arthur meeting.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morgana or the nephew of Arthur in this version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and no connection was made between the two prior to this.
to:
* AgeLift: He's seemingly ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover asArthur.
a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
*DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in theArthurian Legend, Owain ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it is reduced the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for aminor character face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed bythe [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]]. Noticeably he's killed several episodes before the appearance of the Questing Beast, which in the Legend is responsible for him and Arthur meeting.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morganamagic or the nephew of Arthur in this version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and no connection was made between the two prior to this.magical weapons.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as
*
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed by
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morgana
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[[folder:Pellinore]]
!!Pellinore
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sean Francis
A knight who accepted the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
!!Pellinore
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sean Francis
A knight who accepted the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
to:
!!Pellinore
!!Mordred
[[quoteright:229:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Senza_titolo-3_7351.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
A knight
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
Mordred is a young Druid boy who
Changed line(s) 379,383 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Has been changed from a king and ally of Arthur to just a knight of Camelot.
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with Arthur in the Legend, but here he is simply one of his knights.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* RaceLift: Is played by a black actor.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the father of Percival in this version and he isn't the brother of the Fisher King.
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with Arthur in the Legend, but here he is simply one of his knights.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* RaceLift: Is played by a black actor.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the father of Percival in this version and he isn't the brother of the Fisher King.
to:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Has AdaptationalBaddass: He has magic powers in this version, while in most versions of the Legend he's just an ordinary knight.
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
* BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's beenchanged recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from aking and ally of Arthur small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to just a knight of Camelot.
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with ArthurCamelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the Legend, but here future, he is simply the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
* HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
* InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
* [[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with hisknights.
magic in 2x03 and 2x11.
*DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in theArthurian Legend, Owain [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he go from Iseldir's care to Aglaine's care to Alvarr's care to working with bandits?
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred isreduced glad to a minor character take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights and the[[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain second was a ManipulativeBastard who wants to use him and Morgana to bring Uther down.
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of theWeek]].
same character.
*RaceLift: Is played by TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a black actor.
SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation:He's not the father of Percival in this version and he Morded isn't the brother son of Arthur and Morgause in this version, meaning he has no relation to Morgana or Uther. He also isn't the half-brother of Gwaine.
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of theFisher King.prophesy, resulting in him being left for dead on several occasions. While this frustrates him, it doesn't break him to turn into a villain until...(see this is unforgivable).
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust the only other two magic users on the show.
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
* BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with Arthur
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
* HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
* InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
* [[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with his
*
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights and the
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the
*
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation:
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of the
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust the only other two magic users on the show.
Changed line(s) 386,390 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Bedivere]]
!!Bedivere
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Unknown
A knight killed by the Questing Beast.
!!Bedivere
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Unknown
A knight killed by the Questing Beast.
to:
!!Bedivere
!!Morgause
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/morgause_9619.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The battle for your soul is about to begin."-]
A
Changed line(s) 392,393 (click to see context) from:
* DecompositeCharacter: His role of [[spoiler:throwing Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death is given to Merlin]].
* DemotedToExtra: The Knight of the Round Table responsible for returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death, here he's reduced to a victim of the MonsterOfTheWeek.
* DemotedToExtra: The Knight of the Round Table responsible for returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death, here he's reduced to a victim of the MonsterOfTheWeek.
to:
* DecompositeCharacter: His ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's one of only four villains in the series to be more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeuh, Cornealius Sigan and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of[[spoiler:throwing Excalibur the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to theLady of land, to the Lake after point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur'sdeath half-sister nor is given she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to Merlin]].
be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn't the mother of Mordred or Gwaine either.
*DemotedToExtra: The Knight TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the Round Table responsible for returning Excalibur to latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is theLady of truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the Lake lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only afterArthur's death, here he's reduced to those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a victim of the MonsterOfTheWeek.full-scale war on Camelot.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to the
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's
*
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after
Changed line(s) 396,404 (click to see context) from:
!!!Other
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
!!!'''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
!!!'''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
to:
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.
!!Cenred
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The
Changed line(s) 406,428 (click to see context) from:
* AndroclesLion: {{Inverted}} - he befriends Merlin and guides him.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason to despise Uther.
* BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to Merlin's rescue in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'', then again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]''.]]
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week. When Mordred showed up around episode 8, he became a more darker and complex character.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason to despise Uther.
* BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to Merlin's rescue in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'', then again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]''.]]
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week. When Mordred showed up around episode 8, he became a more darker and complex character.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
to:
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
*AndroclesLion: {{Inverted}} - he befriends Merlin EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause andguides him.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reasonCenred seem to despise be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
*BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a comearmy die and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave withdraws the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows battle against Camelot once he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
*BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to Merlin's rescue in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'', then again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]''.]]
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week.OhCrap: When Mordred showed up around episode 8, he became a more darker and complex character.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as herealizes[[spoiler: Morgause is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’sgoing to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You kill him]], and there's nothing he can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his propheciesdo about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.it.
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
*
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason
*
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come
%%* KilledOffForReal
*
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
Changed line(s) 430,441 (click to see context) from:
* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Can talk perform magic, have incredibly long life spans and be controlled by Dragonlords.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's about to die of old age when the series end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's about to die of old age when the series end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
to:
* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Can talk perform magic, have incredibly long life spans ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and be controlled by Dragonlords.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claimsMorgause. According to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's about Morgause, Cenred only wishes to die of old age please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of theseries end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind,good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's outin The Kindness a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom,Fyrien'' and then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind,
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom,
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
Changed line(s) 444,449 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Geoffrey of Monmouth]]
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michael Cronin
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michael Cronin
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
to:
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.
!!Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a
Changed line(s) 451,459 (click to see context) from:
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
to:
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically acrosscast refer to the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
*ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes acrossBreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person;a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.defence weapon.
*SpookySilentLibrary: CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). Heworks seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained inone.5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
*
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person;
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
*
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He
** Finally explained in
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
Changed line(s) 462,470 (click to see context) from:
!!Villains
[[folder:Nimueh]]
!!Nimueh
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/nimueh_7083.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michelle Ryan
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
The sorceress who cast the spell that allowed Uther and Ygraine to conceive Arthur. After Ygraine died in childbirth as per the conditions of the magic, it served as a catalyst for Uther's hatred of magic and the massacre that followed. Throughout the first season, Nimueh works against Uther from a distance in order to undermine his rule. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
[[folder:Nimueh]]
!!Nimueh
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/nimueh_7083.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michelle Ryan
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
The sorceress who cast the spell that allowed Uther and Ygraine to conceive Arthur. After Ygraine died in childbirth as per the conditions of the magic, it served as a catalyst for Uther's hatred of magic and the massacre that followed. Throughout the first season, Nimueh works against Uther from a distance in order to undermine his rule. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
to:
[[folder:Nimueh]]
!!Nimueh
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Helios
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn.
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
Changed line(s) 472,500 (click to see context) from:
* ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it is the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed by magic or magical weapons.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it is the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed by magic or magical weapons.
to:
* ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them offAffablyEvil: He can demonstrate manners and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
decorum when he feels like it.
*BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at BadassNormal: He's a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
*BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
*BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems tobe a one-shot villain but the production team like the character become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to give note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in hera bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulativeBackStory and cunning in nature, best demonstrated lets her go without a fuss when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nailstells him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same agethat Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief butshe's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
*TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like muchan AffablyEvil version of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
this.
*UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only beTakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by magic Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn before dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking ormagical weapons.running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off
*
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
*
*
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
*
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much
*
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
Changed line(s) 503,510 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Mordred]]
!!Mordred
[[quoteright:229:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Senza_titolo-3_7351.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
Mordred is a young Druid boy who Morgana grows instantly attached to. According to the Great Dragon, Mordred will one day kill Arthur. Merlin's desire to help Mordred becomes heavily strained because of this. Also, another prophecy states that [[spoiler:Mordred and Morgana will be united in evil]]. He appears in the first, second and fifth series.
!!Mordred
[[quoteright:229:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Senza_titolo-3_7351.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
Mordred is a young Druid boy who Morgana grows instantly attached to. According to the Great Dragon, Mordred will one day kill Arthur. Merlin's desire to help Mordred becomes heavily strained because of this. Also, another prophecy states that [[spoiler:Mordred and Morgana will be united in evil]]. He appears in the first, second and fifth series.
to:
!!Mordred
[[quoteright:229:https://static.
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"My name
[-"It is
Mordred
Merlin's
Changed line(s) 512,598 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalBaddass: He has magic powers in this version, while in most versions of the Legend he's just an ordinary knight.
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
* BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to a knight of Camelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the future, he is the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
* HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
* InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
* [[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with his magic in 2x03 and 2x11.
* MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he go from Iseldir's care to Aglaine's care to Alvarr's care to working with bandits?
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights and the second was a ManipulativeBastard who wants to use him and Morgana to bring Uther down.
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morded isn't the son of Arthur and Morgause in this version, meaning he has no relation to Morgana or Uther. He also isn't the half-brother of Gwaine.
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of the prophesy, resulting in him being left for dead on several occasions. While this frustrates him, it doesn't break him to turn into a villain until...(see this is unforgivable).
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust the only other two magic users on the show.
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
* BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to a knight of Camelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the future, he is the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
* HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
* InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
* [[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with his magic in 2x03 and 2x11.
* MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he go from Iseldir's care to Aglaine's care to Alvarr's care to working with bandits?
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights and the second was a ManipulativeBastard who wants to use him and Morgana to bring Uther down.
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morded isn't the son of Arthur and Morgause in this version, meaning he has no relation to Morgana or Uther. He also isn't the half-brother of Gwaine.
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of the prophesy, resulting in him being left for dead on several occasions. While this frustrates him, it doesn't break him to turn into a villain until...(see this is unforgivable).
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust the only other two magic users on the show.
to:
* AdaptationalBaddass: He has magic powers ActionMom: She joins in this version, while in most versions the rest of the Legend Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he'sjust an ordinary knight.
exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
*AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
[[GoodParents Good Parent]]
*BadassCape: LetsGetDangerous: When Mordred became a knight.her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
*BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This TheOjou: Hunith is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angryvery kind, gentle, polite, maternal and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to soft spoken, despite not mess with this kid.coming from wealth.
*BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** ConsideringOnlyOneName: Given that Mordred was originally most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she justanother foe wants him to remain safe from harm.
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything inthe earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:hashis beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: Inpower to save his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered mother by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
*DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly toldoptimistic nature. Seems that Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief inherited that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.trait.
*{{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentencedSeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returnsbuy her as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to a knight of Camelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the future, he is the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.Merlin's mother.
*HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destinedShipperOnDeck: She seems to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He hasbe a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
*InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
*InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has TeamMom: She appears to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens be maternal to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathiceveryone, including Arthur and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.Gwen.
*[[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with his magic in 2x03 and 2x11.
* MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single characterWhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he godisappears abruptly from Iseldir's care to Aglaine's care to Alvarr's care to working with bandits?
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred isthe only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in theepisode; first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knightswhen she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and the second was a ManipulativeBastard who wants to use him and Morgana to bring Uther down.
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forestwhen mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morded isn't the son ofseries four (Merlin, Arthur and Morgause in this version, meaning he has no relation to Morgana or Uther. He also isn't Gwen lead the half-brother of Gwaine.
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because ofattackers into the prophesy, resulting in him being forest, and we're just left for dead on several occasions. While this frustrates him, it doesn't break him to turn into a villain until...(see this is unforgivable).
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the senseassume that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust they left Hunith and the only other two magic users on the show. villagers alone).
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's
*
*
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
*
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry
*
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
*
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
*
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to a knight of Camelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the future, he is the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
*
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined
** [[spoiler:He has
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
*
*
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
*
* MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he go
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morded isn't the son of
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense
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[[folder:Morgause]]
!!Morgause
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/morgause_9619.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EmiliaFox
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The battle for your soul is about to begin."-]
A mysterious sorceress who has a connection to Morgana, Morgause desires the doom of Uther and Camelot. She appears in the second, third and fourth series.
!!Morgause
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/morgause_9619.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EmiliaFox
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The battle for your soul is about to begin."-]
A mysterious sorceress who has a connection to Morgana, Morgause desires the doom of Uther and Camelot. She appears in the second, third and fourth series.
to:
!!Morgause
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The battle for your soul is about
[-"You don't choose to
Changed line(s) 610,657 (click to see context) from:
* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's one of only four villains in the series to be more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeuh, Cornealius Sigan and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to the land, to the point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's half-sister nor is she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn't the mother of Mordred or Gwaine either.
* TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a full-scale war on Camelot.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to the land, to the point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's half-sister nor is she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn't the mother of Mordred or Gwaine either.
* TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a full-scale war on Camelot.
to:
* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In thebest swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one ofonly four villains these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in theseries forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard tobe more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeuh, Cornealius Sigan accentuate his hangdog expression, and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fondlife of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.loneliness that Balinor has led.
*DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in when Balinor died, he passed the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returnedgift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the land, to the point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir[[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.existence.]]
*OnlyOneName: We never find out her ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some lastname.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds timewords to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, andgive her a bracelet things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers thatwould help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...Merlin is his son.]]
*RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified inInTheBlood: Balinor says that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear throughthe Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
*UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to take time to style her hair help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and also dress very nicely.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's half-sister nor is she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn'the empathises with the mother of Mordred or Gwaine either.
dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
*TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong asKilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
life.
*WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor thatshe begins planning he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is afull-scale war on Camelot.loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
* BackForTheFinale: In the
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
*
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.
*
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that
*
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
*
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's half-sister nor is she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn't
*
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as
*
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
Changed line(s) 660,665 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Cenred]]
!!Cenred
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/TomEllis
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
!!Cenred
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/TomEllis
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
to:
!!Cenred
[[quoteright:223:https://static.
!!Freya
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
The ruler of
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the
Changed line(s) 667,674 (click to see context) from:
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
to:
* AdaptationalNameChange: The Lady of the Lake has many names in the Legend, but has never had the name Freya before.
%%*
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%*
*
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
*
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
%%*
*
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
Changed line(s) 676,687 (click to see context) from:
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
to:
%%* PainfulTransformation
*ShipTease: There seems PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya tobe ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted toMorgause, Cenred share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautifulexists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continueshe dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Ofa lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do thishe remembered -- her love of lakes is the only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Ispersonal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew thatso? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
at first.
*TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any SecretKeeper: One of the good guys, few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was ina SwordFight love with Arthur, but Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in aDeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
whisper.
%%*YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulnessUnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
*
* ThePromise: '''Freya to
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
*
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a
%%*
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
Changed line(s) 690,697 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:The White Dragon]]
!!Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' N/A
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this into some doubt. He appears in the fourth and fifth series.
!!Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' N/A
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this into some doubt. He appears in the fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
!!Tom
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for
[-"We're on the
Changed line(s) 699,729 (click to see context) from:
* AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer to the dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
* BreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as a defence weapon.
* CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
* BreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as a defence weapon.
* CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
to:
* AmbiguousGender: At AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Leodegrance was a king that chose to be loyal to Arthur after he pulled the sword from the stone, while Bors was a knight and the son of another king who was loyal to Arthur. Tom is just a blacksmith living in Camelot.
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives hisbirth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer first appearance, only to the dragon as be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a"she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it ispretty evident that Aithusa was tortured darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere andabused when he and Morgana Elyan, who were locked up the children of king Leodegrance and isolated Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable formonths.its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
*BreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as a defence weapon.MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
*CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5.SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun"killed off in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured,second episode he spent the first two years of appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using hislife trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he choseblacksmithing skills to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.experiment with alchemy.
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his
* TheBlacksmith: And a
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
*
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
*
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5.
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun"
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured,
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
Changed line(s) 732,739 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Helios]]
!!Helios
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6400530697_b802a70d97_o-1_1768.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Terence Maynard
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in her crusade against Camelot and whose army attacks it at the end of series four. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
!!Helios
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6400530697_b802a70d97_o-1_1768.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Terence Maynard
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in her crusade against Camelot and whose army attacks it at the end of series four. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Helios
[[quoteright:211:https://static.
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Were
[-"Are you
A womanizing
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord
Changed line(s) 741,757 (click to see context) from:
* AffablyEvil: He can demonstrate manners and decorum when he feels like it.
* BadassNormal: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
* BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn before dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
* BadassNormal: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
* BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn before dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
to:
* AffablyEvil: He can demonstrate manners BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, anddecorum when he feels like it.
the only main character to die by the credits.
*BadassNormal: ForgottenFallenFriend: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes afew other characters bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in theentire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspectnick of this trope.
time.
*BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between HeliosSecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine maywhen Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turnbefore dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referreddying to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
protect said secret.
*TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and
*
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect
*
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred
%%* ScaryBlackMan
*
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
Changed line(s) 760,768 (click to see context) from:
!!Allies
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David DurhamCaroline Faber
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David DurhamCaroline Faber
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
to:
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"It
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is
A gifted healer who supplements her
Merlin's mother, who sends
Changed line(s) 770,787 (click to see context) from:
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
to:
* ActionMom: BittersweetEnding: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Thoughescapes with her life, but she wants this and Gaius are parted - presumably for Merlin, she knows good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated thathe's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage has a gift for his abilities.
healing.
*[[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insistsInformedAbility: Gaius states that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternalmore powerful and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, ifnaturally gifted than he is, but she does have a second name, spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it'snever mentioned.
something of an InformedAbility.
*OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about MindControlEyes: When under the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill atcontrol of the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buyManticore, her eyes appear as Merlin's mother.
totally black.
*ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
*SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} PetMonstrosity: The Moment of Truth]]''.
Manticore
*TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that
*
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's
*
* ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy
*
*
*
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
Changed line(s) 790,797 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Balinor]]
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David DurhamJohn Lynch
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David DurhamJohn Lynch
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
to:
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's
[-"I'm not
A young man with a
Merlin's father
Changed line(s) 799,827 (click to see context) from:
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
to:
* ActionDad: He's quick ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature ofhis magic]].
liking.
*BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Havingfather. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived rough his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in theforest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
*TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his father life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
doesn't approve of his actions.
*ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells{{Foil}}: To Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life -- another young man with Hunith.magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
*DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of Merlin's existence till 2x13.decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
*FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlinabout the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin isdemonstrates his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lordmagical powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.him.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of
*
* BarbarianLonghair: Having
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
*
*
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
*
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
*
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
Changed line(s) 830,837 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Freya]]
!!Freya
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/freya_5160.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Laura Donnelly
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady of the Lake]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} The Diamond of the Day Part II]].'' [[note]]Or at least her arm does[[/note]]
!!Freya
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/freya_5160.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Laura Donnelly
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady of the Lake]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} The Diamond of the Day Part II]].'' [[note]]Or at least her arm does[[/note]]
to:
!!Freya
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady
A HighPriest of the
Changed line(s) 839,913 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him in the trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save Camelot by advising Merlin and giving him Excalibur.
* AdaptationalNameChange: The Lady of the Lake has many names in the Legend, but has never had the name Freya before.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
* AdaptationalNameChange: The Lady of the Lake has many names in the Legend, but has never had the name Freya before.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
to:
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control andeventually traps him psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns inthe trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save Camelot by advising Merlin and giving him Excalibur.
* AdaptationalNameChange:''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Lady Kindness of the Lake has many names Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana inthe Legend, but has never had the name Freya before.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
her schemes right up until her death.
*BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya wasEvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a kind and good-hearted individual.sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
*BeautyToBeast: Played straight due FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the Bastet monster, other world happy in the knowledge that she goes from being will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually afragile, beautiful girl fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bondbelieve that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away soMorgana. On finding out that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freyais the Brooding Girl mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
him.
*CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns atHighPriest: Identifies as the end HighPriest of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so a sect of wizards that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed himspecializes in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
mind control.
*DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a manKneelBeforeFrodo: Or in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appearsthis way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this forcase, Merlin.
*LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t oneMagicStaff: One of the names given to few magical users on the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes show to Freyja, wield a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those staff that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captureddoubles as a slave.
walking stick.
*SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He canbe her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
conjure up magical fireballs.
*SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the fewcharacters who knew about discovers Merlin's magic and secret identity.
and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
*SecretRelationship: With SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin.Nobody knew {{Inverted}} in that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, ithe doesn't last.
mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
*SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was impliedYouAreNotAlone: Says this to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.Merlin.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in
* AdaptationalNameChange:
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
*
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was
*
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya
*
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him
*
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for
*
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured
*
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can
*
* SecretKeeper: One of the few
*
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it
*
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
Changed line(s) 916,922 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tom]]
!!Tom
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Durham
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
!!Tom
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Durham
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
to:
!!Tom
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"We're on
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He
Changed line(s) 924,936 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Leodegrance was a king that chose to be loyal to Arthur after he pulled the sword from the stone, while Bors was a knight and the son of another king who was loyal to Arthur. Tom is just a blacksmith living in Camelot.
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
to:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Leodegrance was ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a king that chose to be loyal to FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthurafter he pulled the sword from the stone, while Bors was a knight and the son Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each ofanother king who was loyal to Arthur. Tom is just a blacksmith living in Camelot.
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important charactersthem have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.rather unsettling smiles.
*MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
TheCynic: Tristan
*SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to get killed off.team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
*SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in thesecond episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, whoshow was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of
* AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
*
*
*
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
Changed line(s) 939,946 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
to:
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.
[[folder:King Bayard]]
!!Bayard
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home.
Changed line(s) 948,959 (click to see context) from:
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
to:
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: IsClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead crime of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence ofpoisoning Arthur's life.
wine goblet.
*ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove hisvillage stands little chance own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see ofwinning him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur againstthe bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).him.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of
*
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
Changed line(s) 962,969 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alice]]
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
to:
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
!!Odin
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is
[-"I want you to kill the
Changed line(s) 971,979 (click to see context) from:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
to:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrallTheBusCameBack: In one of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
*TheMedic: Her chosen career in CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. though It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it'ssomething of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When underthe control of ''villain'' who wants revenge on the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
''hero''.
*NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
*PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
*DecemberDecemberRomance: With GaiusRevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall
*
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's
* MindControlEyes: When under
*
*
*
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
Changed line(s) 982,989 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Gilli]]
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
to:
!!Gilli
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I'm not going
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in
Changed line(s) 991,1001 (click to see context) from:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
to:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunnedArthur attractive, and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve there's rather a lot of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young manSubText with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
court jester.
*IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders hismotivation, in wanting jester to make place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a name LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been forhimself.
Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
*ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. ChessMotif: He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlindemonstrates his magical powers plans to him.Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man
*
* BatmanGambit: He orders his
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for
*
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
Changed line(s) 1004,1009 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alator]]
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
to:
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
A HighPriest
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the
Changed line(s) 1011,1044 (click to see context) from:
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
to:
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic:BoisterousBruiser: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control quick to anger and psychic torture, but fights his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
own battles.
*TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killedBruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}.Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's introduced as a sinister threat also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive toMerlin, only anyone paying untoward attention to reveal himself as loyal her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur toEmrys.one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
*FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to break him and he tells her to her face this indicates that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
she's probably ''not''.
*HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show endsPapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his death.
daughter.
*SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of hisneck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires himlove for his daughter to extract information from Gaius.
cause discord at the peace summit.
*ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot.Creator/GeorgiaMoffett
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
A pair Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of Camelot or its King, but who decide a love spell in an attempt to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic:
*
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
*
*
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends
*
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him
*
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot.
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Changed line(s) 1046,1061 (click to see context) from:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
to:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does thisand a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
on greeting her.
*BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve asKissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
[[LovePotion love spell]].
*[[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
*TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced atLovePotion: Is the end (permanent) victim of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.one.
*{{Expy}}: According MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred towriter Julian Jones, they as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur arebased on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still doesput under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the right thing when called upon.
bafflement of everyone else.
*[[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
*OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearanceStrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in the show was a bit random.Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
*VasquezAlwaysDies: IsoldeWellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this
*
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as
*
*
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at
*
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does
*
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
*
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance
*
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
Changed line(s) 1064,1070 (click to see context) from:
!!Royalty
[[folder:King Bayard]]
!!Bayard
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Clive Russell
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
[[folder:King Bayard]]
!!Bayard
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Clive Russell
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
to:
[[folder:King Bayard]]
!!Bayard
[[quoteright:169:https://static.
!!Elena
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The
Changed line(s) 1072,1081 (click to see context) from:
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the crime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
to:
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for thecrime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
*ColourCodedArmies: He DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of theknights "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator ofMercia wear blue, her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought tocontrast Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the red-cloaked men of narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
*FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like apawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink fromPrincessClassic.
** Though she has a(supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we seegenuine love of him, there's no reason to believe he's not horseback riding, which was never a fair and just ruler.
Sidhe trait.
*OneShotCharacter: Presumably one [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the kings Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the Five Kingdoms; episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attendingcomment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn:Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.To the Sidhe.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the
*
* DisposableFiance: Of the
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to
*
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from
** Though she has a
* TheGoodKing: From what we see
*
* PeaceConference: Attending
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn:
Changed line(s) 1084,1091 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:King Odin]]
!!Odin
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Fintan [=McKeown=]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
!!Odin
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Fintan [=McKeown=]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
to:
!!Odin
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
!!Godwyn
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon.
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The
Changed line(s) 1093,1105 (click to see context) from:
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
to:
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. ItCoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: Howseem too fussed by his son was killed.
daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
*FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' whoDotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants revenge on the ''hero''.best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
*MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
ManHug: With Uther
*MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur andOdin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead becauseElena decide not to get married, he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.respects their decision with no drama.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How
*
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who
*
*
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
Changed line(s) 1108,1115 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:King Alined]]
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
to:
[[folder:King Alined]]
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
Caerleon]]
!!Caerleon
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''David Schofield
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
Steven Hartley
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
Theruler King of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
!!Alined
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
!!Caerleon
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The
Changed line(s) 1117,1128 (click to see context) from:
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
to:
* AmbiguouslyGay: BitPartBadGuy: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and there's rather a lot of SubText with promptly executed for his court jester.
crime.
*BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif:FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This isnot the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sortslightest bit of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Putsfear when Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the percieved insult.
whole thing.
*TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoilHonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between the Five Kingdoms so signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
chooses death.
*WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
*
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif:
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts
*
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil
*
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
Changed line(s) 1131,1138 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:King Olaf]]
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/MarkLewisJones
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/MarkLewisJones
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
to:
!!Olaf
[[quoteright:210:https://static.
!!Annis
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf
[-"There is
The
Changed line(s) 1140,1161 (click to see context) from:
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/GeorgiaMoffett
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/GeorgiaMoffett
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
to:
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
*MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of thisindicates that she's probably ''not''.
trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
*PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
*ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
*UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to cause discord at Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the peace summit.
fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
*YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Princess Mithian]]
!!Mithian
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''Creator/GeorgiaMoffett
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests.Creator/JanetMontgomery
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter The Princess of King Olaf. Accompanying him Nemeth. She comes to the Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace talks hosted at Camelot, settlement between their kingdoms. Though she becomes finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing engagement on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
*
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this
*
*
*
*
[/folder]]
[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
[[quoteright:188:https://static.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Princess Mithian]]
!!Mithian
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests.
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
Changed line(s) 1163,1180 (click to see context) from:
* AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
to:
* AlphaBitch: She AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around hera little finger, as he's bit of a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does thiscrush on greeting her.
Arthur.
*KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.AmicableExes: With Arthur.
*LovePotion: Is BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the(permanent) victim OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front ofone.her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
*MissingMom: Her mother MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is unaccounted that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better forand presumed dead.
a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
*RichBitch: And how! NiceGirl: She's rude friendly with Arthur, and unpleasant kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment atevery possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Thoughthe hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she'sreferred just as nice to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only existsattempt to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
*StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of hermother. Since we never see her, we just parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact haveto take his word for it.a father.
*WellExcuseMePrincess: RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, thebeginning two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and end of set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but theepisode, latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's notunder the love spell, this is just Arthur's attitude toward her.
manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
*WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and beingcarted off by her father. For treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].along. Exit stage left.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this
*
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
*
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
*
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for
*
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at
* RoyalBrat: Though
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
*
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have
*
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not
*
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being
Changed line(s) 1183,1190 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Princess Elena]]
!!Elena
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/GeorgiaKing
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
!!Elena
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/GeorgiaKing
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
to:
!!Elena
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Rodor
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess
Changed line(s) 1192,1210 (click to see context) from:
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
to:
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a great love of horses, chill personality and being an accomplished rider is one able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though thefew things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.unanimous response is "not a chance".
*BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
*MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is broughtReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated leave him behind as a mere impediment to IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see hishappiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.quote.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
*
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
*
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
Changed line(s) 1213,1219 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Lord Godwyn]]
!!Godwyn
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Simon Williams
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
!!Godwyn
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Simon Williams
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
to:
!!Godwyn
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Maybe it's time things changed.
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
Changed line(s) 1221,1225 (click to see context) from:
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
to:
* CoolOldGuy: An ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts herArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.final spell.
*ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind,ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
colourless.
*OpenMindedParent: When CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) andElena decide not the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears toget married, he respects their decision with no drama.''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
*
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind,
*
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
Changed line(s) 1228,1234 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:King Caerleon]]
!!Caerleon
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Steven Hartley
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
!!Caerleon
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Steven Hartley
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
to:
!!Caerleon
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I
A knight who
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
Changed line(s) 1236,1241 (click to see context) from:
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
to:
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in which battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he'scaught trespassing just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes onCamelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fearpretty strongly to Morgana when Arthur meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens toexecute best him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even moreperturbed about the whole thing.
dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
*HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting ShoutOut: Presumably his head cut off, he chooses death.
name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
*IdiotBall: He practically grabs StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
*KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's
* HandsomeLech: He comes on
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more
*
*
*
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
Changed line(s) 1244,1251 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Queen Annis]]
!!Annis
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/LindsayDuncan
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
!!Annis
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/LindsayDuncan
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
to:
!!Annis
[[quoteright:211:https://static.
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"There is something about
[-"I want my face to be the last face you
Changed line(s) 1253,1266 (click to see context) from:
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
to:
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
*BadassNormal: She DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin hasno magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlippedabilitities and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her getting an axe to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur andhis knights.
face.
*CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, givenFriendToBugs: He controls the show's track record with spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evilfemale characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.kind.
*TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers InTheHood: He wears a particularly brutal one deep hood to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morganaand Uther. All things considered, it's with a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir wasprobably only down the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
two-part GrandFinale.
*ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- tobe full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
*
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and
*
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
*
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was
*
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1269,1276 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Princess Mithian]]
!!Mithian
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JanetMontgomery
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
!!Mithian
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JanetMontgomery
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
to:
!!Mithian
[[quoteright:208:https://static.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would
The
Changed line(s) 1278,1321 (click to see context) from:
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
to:
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness:BeautyIsBad: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging agenuinely lovely person.
RescueRomance.
*BigEntrance: She certainly makes TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an impression when exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before shefirst arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrastmagically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outsideget herself into the castle.
*BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: HerGoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns.
gowns to denote her mystical status.
*DecoyDamsel: Though HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she'scoerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculationnot remotely grateful - only bitter that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though moreneeded rescuing in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On herfirst visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
place.
*NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, butTheVamp: There doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn ends up hypnotizing him), but she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness:
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a
*
* FemmeFatale: Even before she
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside
*
* CostumePorn: Her
*
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her
*
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
Changed line(s) 1324,1331 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:King Rodor]]
!!Rodor
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' James Fox
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
!!Rodor
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' James Fox
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
to:
!!Rodor
[[quoteright:185:https://static.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in
[-"It is my
The King
A member of
Changed line(s) 1333,1340 (click to see context) from:
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
to:
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in years, but has a chill personality and able order to crack jokes under pressure.
fill the audience in to what they're doing.
*DistressedDude: Morgana takes BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows himhostage to lure Arthur out bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member ofCamelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father inthis case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".race, albeit an exiled one.
*LivingMacGuffin: What EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his role amounts to.EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
*ReasonableAuthorityFigure: KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He'sa NiceGuy who commands respect certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, andat one point orders is prepared to sacrifice himself in the others process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays toleave stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow himbehind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.up.
*
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
*
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
*
* LargeHam: He's
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
Changed line(s) 1343,1351 (click to see context) from:
!!Other Villains
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
to:
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}}
The
Changed line(s) 1353,1368 (click to see context) from:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
to:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the elderly witch body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth andthe young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed inweird growths on their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
faces.
*CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end,FangsAreEvil: Even though she still has enough strength left his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him inher to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minutehis second appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from anutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind few weird facial features and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever sheblue tint) otherwise looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].human.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in
*
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end,
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
Changed line(s) 1371,1376 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Valiant]]
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
to:
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
A knight
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who
Changed line(s) 1378,1391 (click to see context) from:
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
to:
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That heAnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to fight makes bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as acheater; wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant heutilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
of this.
* ShoutOut:Presumably his name His role is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian comic strip).
Legend.
*StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur toface, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?defeat him.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he
* ShoutOut:
*
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
Changed line(s) 1394,1401 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Edwin Muirden]]
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
to:
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me.
A
Changed line(s) 1403,1418 (click to see context) from:
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
to:
* BestServedCold: As AlienBlood: Troll blood is a child, his parents were burnt at strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of thestake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
*{{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spiderBitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done withas a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, kind and pleasant person, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
*DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
*DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities Camelot and getting an axe immediately starts to his face.
raise taxes.
*FriendToBugs: He HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because thespiders that sends Morgana into real Catrina had a coma-like sleep.
rare bone condition.
*GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to killLovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite forexecuting his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the
*
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with
*
*
*
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the
*
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1421,1428 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sophia]]
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like
Changed line(s) 1430,1445 (click to see context) from:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
to:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that thebetter to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard:three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part ofand Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the spell.
closest one of finding true wizards.
*MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: UnlikeManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the usual gold we see chinks in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has aspell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves herwide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
*TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any ''particular'' need of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers toseduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It'shimself as a bit disconcerting.witch ''finder''.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard:
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of
*
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her
*
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's
Changed line(s) 1448,1455 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aulfic]]
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Aulfric
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"It
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is
A member
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the
Changed line(s) 1457,1468 (click to see context) from:
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
to:
* AsYouKnow: AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He relates works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on theplan cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to hisdaughter (which she knew perfectly well) cause, and seems legitimate in order to fill his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audiencein to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.knows he's just manipating her.
*EvilLaugh: Cackles ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, uppress in order to and including cold-blooded murder.
enlist her help.
*LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
*PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything PlayingPossum: What he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr isprepared to sacrifice himself set up as a fairly important figure in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himselfconflict between Druids and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staffCamelot, but is never seen or referred to simply blow him up.again.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
*
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up
*
*
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff
Changed line(s) 1471,1476 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sidhe Elder]]
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
to:
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Michael Jenn
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The
Changed line(s) 1478,1484 (click to see context) from:
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
to:
* ChangelingTale: He initiates {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the oneby sending controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks hissubjects into blow at the body last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sitsleeping curse on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.Camelot).
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
Changed line(s) 1487,1494 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tristan de Bois]]
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
to:
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother,
An old pupil of Gaius who
Changed line(s) 1496,1515 (click to see context) from:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
to:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves himback from to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather thedead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's helptools he returns as needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had awraith.shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
*BigEntrance: TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly)uses Excalibur a slingshot to defeat him.fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
*
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly)
Changed line(s) 1518,1525 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Catrina]]
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of
A
Changed line(s) 1527,1535 (click to see context) from:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
to:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
*BeautyIsBad: BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Herattractiveness is often commented on, and part of powers render the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: Shecomes plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as akind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions weapon, only to seduce and kill Uther.lose control of them.
*ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her trueform, form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive andeveryone manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, butUther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her becausethe real Catrina had creatures developed such a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall inlove of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her withher.
a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
*OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath. fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
*
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a
*
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with
*
Changed line(s) 1538,1545 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aredian]]
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
to:
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"It's all around us,
A shade resurrected from the
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation
Changed line(s) 1547,1557 (click to see context) from:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
to:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she hasone, no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier andit makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival,subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them fromin his victims.
interactions with Guinevere.
*{{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius,ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin and [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morganawere actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on theclosest one Lake of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.Avalon.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival,
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from
*
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius,
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
Changed line(s) 1560,1567 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alvarr]]
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
to:
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and
A powerful druid who
Changed line(s) 1569,1578 (click to see context) from:
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
to:
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: DyingMomentOfAwesome: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses herhas a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: Withentire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his girlfriend, Enmyria.
daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
*BecomingTheMask: Though EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about loves his feelings daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off forher Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All bythe end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
himself.
*GreyAndGreyMorality: TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He'sgenuinely devoted out to his cause, kill Arthur and seems legitimate in his fondness destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.over a decade.
*ManipulativeBastard: YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druidstaking lives, and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.truly loves his daughter.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her
* BattleCouple: With
*
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by
*
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
*
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids
Changed line(s) 1581,1582 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
to:
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in
Changed line(s) 1584,1597 (click to see context) from:
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
to:
* {{BlackKnight}}
ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
*TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to investigate mere rumours that death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as theKnights have reawoken.
reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
*FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similaritiesFaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the Ringwraiths gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
the fall of Arthur.
*SlaveMooks: To Morgause. GreyAndGreyMorality: She reanimates them honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses tohelp die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually killUther while him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelotis under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only wayto stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growlsbe a legitimate target and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly somehas no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy ofCamelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir soldiers that was delivering weapons to action at the command of Camelot, and later kills a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight sparescastle guard that was preventing her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
*
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the
*
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities
*
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares
Changed line(s) 1600,1605 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Julius Borden]]
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
to:
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Portrayed By:'''
An old pupil of Gaius
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who
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* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
to:
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana andcharming.
seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
*DarkAndTroubledPast: Not FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves himuse wiles to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gatherdeceive the tools he needs to find menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.audience.
*TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she usesa slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in theknight's cooking pot.show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and
*
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
*
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
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[[folder:Lamia]]
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
----
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Lancelot du Lac]]
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/SantiagoCabrera
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
----
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Ruadan]]
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/LiamCunningham
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
----
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Kara]]
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
----
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Eira]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
----
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
[[/folder]]
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!!Knights of Camelot
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!!!Knights
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!!Knights of Camelot
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[[header:[-[[center:''Series/{{Merlin|2008}}'' '''[[Series/{{Merlin|2008}} Character Index]]'''\\
[[Characters/MerlinMainCast Main Cast]] ([[Characters/MerlinTheCharacter Merlin]] | [[Characters/MerlinArthurPendragon Arthur Pendragon]] | [[Characters/MerlinMorgana Morgana]]) | '''Others''']]-]]]
[[Characters/MerlinMainCast Main Cast]] ([[Characters/MerlinTheCharacter Merlin]] | [[Characters/MerlinArthurPendragon Arthur Pendragon]] | [[Characters/MerlinMorgana Morgana]]) | '''Others''']]-]]]
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The main character page for the series is [[Characters/{{Merlin|2008}} here]]. For characters of the main cast, go [[Characters/MerlinMainCast here]].
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* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
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* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]]. Noticeably he's killed several episodes before the appearance of the Questing Beast, which in the Legend is responsible for him and Arthur meeting.
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[[folder:Bedivere]]
!!Bedivere
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Unknown
A knight killed by the Questing Beast.
----
* DecompositeCharacter: His role of [[spoiler:throwing Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death is given to Merlin]].
* DemotedToExtra: The Knight of the Round Table responsible for returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death, here he's reduced to a victim of the MonsterOfTheWeek.
[[/folder]]
!!Bedivere
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Unknown
A knight killed by the Questing Beast.
----
* DecompositeCharacter: His role of [[spoiler:throwing Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death is given to Merlin]].
* DemotedToExtra: The Knight of the Round Table responsible for returning Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur's death, here he's reduced to a victim of the MonsterOfTheWeek.
[[/folder]]
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* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Pellinore or the nephew of the Fisher King.
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[[folder:Pellinore]]
!!Pellinore
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sean Francis
A knight who accepted the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
----
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Has been changed from a king and ally of Arthur to just a knight of Camelot.
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with Arthur in the Legend, but here he is simply one of his knights.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* RaceLift: Is played by a black actor.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the father of Percival in this version and he isn't the brother of the Fisher King.
[[/folder]]
!!Pellinore
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Sean Francis
A knight who accepted the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
----
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Has been changed from a king and ally of Arthur to just a knight of Camelot.
* AdaptationalRelationshipOverhaul: He had a rivalry of sorts with Arthur in the Legend, but here he is simply one of his knights.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* RaceLift: Is played by a black actor.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the father of Percival in this version and he isn't the brother of the Fisher King.
[[/folder]]
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[[folder:Owain]]
!!Owain
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kyle Redmond-Jones
A knight who was the first to accept the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
----
* AgeLift: He's seemingly the same age as Arthur.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morgana or the nephew of Arthur in this version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and no connection was made between the two prior to this.
[[/folder]]
!!Owain
!!!'''Portrayed By:''' Kyle Redmond-Jones
A knight who was the first to accept the challenge by Tristan de Bois, which resulted in his death.
----
* AgeLift: He's seemingly the same age as Arthur.
* DemotedToExtra: A fairly significant character in the Arthurian Legend, Owain is reduced to a minor character killed by the [[MonsterOfTheWeek Villain of the Week]].
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: He's not the son of Morgana or the nephew of Arthur in this version. Though this is TruthInTelevision since this relation was first included in ''Le Morte d'Arthur'' and no connection was made between the two prior to this.
[[/folder]]
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* AdaptationalBaddass: He has magic powers in this version, while in most versions of the Legend he's just an ordinary knight.
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* AaptationalBackstoryChange: He's usually raised by the Lady of the Lake after his father king Ban is killed. Here he's a commoner whose family were killed by bandits when he was a child.
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* AaptationalBackstoryChange: AdaptationalBackstoryChange: He's usually raised by the Lady of the Lake after his father king Ban is killed. Here he's a commoner whose family were killed by bandits when he was a child.
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* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend.
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* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend. However by coincidence his name has similarities with King Leodegrance and he has some similarities with Sir Lionel.
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* AdaptationalNameChange: Traditionally his name is Gawain.
* AgeLift: He's the same age as Arthur in this version.
* AgeLift: He's the same age as Arthur in this version.
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* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Gwaine is traditionally the son of Morgause and nephew of Arthur, which isn't the case in this version. This also means him and Mordred aren't half-brothers.
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* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morded isn't the son of Arthur and Morgause in this version, meaning he has no relation to Morgana or Uther. He also isn't the half-brother of Gwaine.
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* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Morgause isn't Arthur's half-sister nor is she Uther's stepdaughter since Morgana was changed to be Uther's daughter from an affair. She isn't the mother of Mordred or Gwaine either.
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* AdaptationJobChangeChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdapationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* AdapationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
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* AdaptationJobChangeChange: AdaptationalJobChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
*AdapationNameChange: AdaptationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
*
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* AdaptationalJobChangeChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdapationalNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* AdapationalNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
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* AdaptationalJobChangeChange: AdaptationJobChangeChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
*AdapationalNameChange: AdapationNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
*
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* AdaptationalNameChange: The Lady of the Lake has many names in the Legend, but has never had the name Freya before.
* DecompositeCharacter:
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
** While Freya takes on the main role of the Lady of the Lake, Nimue and Vivienne (names which are commonly used for the Lady) are instead used by an evil witch seeking revenge against Uther and the mother of Morgana respectively.
** Some versions of the Lady of the Lake have her give Arthur Excalibur after his first sword is broken. While Freya technically returns Excalibur to Merlin, the sword was forged by Tom the blacksmith.
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* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively.
to:
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively. He also takes on some aspects of the Lady of the Lake by being the one to forge Excalibur, since in some versions the Lady is the one to give Excalibur to Arthur.
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* AaptationalBackstoryChange: He's usually raised by the Lady of the Lake after his father king Ban is killed. Here he's a commoner whose family were killed by bandits when he was a child.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Traditionally Lancelot is the adopted son of the Lady of the Lake while Elyan is the son of his cousin. In this version he's not related to Elyan and doesn't have any connection to Freya.
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----
* RelatedInTheAdaptation: He's Guinevere's brother in this version.
* UnrelatedInTheAdaptation: Elyan in the Arthurian Legend was the son of Bors the Younger, who was the cousin of Lancelot. This is not the case in this version.
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* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
to:
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: ParentsInDistress: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
Added DiffLines:
* AdaptationalBackstoryChange: Leodegrance was a king that chose to be loyal to Arthur after he pulled the sword from the stone, while Bors was a knight and the son of another king who was loyal to Arthur. Tom is just a blacksmith living in Camelot.
* AdaptationalJobChangeChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdapationalNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
* AdaptationalJobChangeChange: His inspirations were a king and a knight, while he's nothing more than a blacksmith instead of a king.
* AdapationalNameChange: Guinevere's father is usually named Leodegrance, while in older Welsh legends he's named Ogyruan. Meanwhile Elyan's father is Bors the Younger.
Added DiffLines:
* CompositeCharacter: Tom is the father of Guinevere and Elyan, who were the children of king Leodegrance and Sir Bors the Younger respectively.
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!!Royalty
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!!Other
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 1]]
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 1]]
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
to:
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 1]]
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
[[folder:Nimueh]]
!!Nimueh
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!!!'''Played By:''' Michelle Ryan
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
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----
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!Mordred (Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos)
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
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[[folder:Mordred]]
!!Mordred
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
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----
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[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 2]]
!Morgause (Creator/EmiliaFox)
!Morgause (Creator/EmiliaFox)
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!Morgause (Creator/EmiliaFox)
!!Morgause
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EmiliaFox
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----
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!Freya (Laura Donnelly)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/freya_5160.jpg]]
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady of the Lake]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} The Diamond of the Day Part II]].'' [[note]]Or at least her arm does[[/note]]
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him in the trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save Camelot by advising Merlin and giving him Excalibur.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
to:
[[folder:Cenred]]
!!Cenred
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/TomEllis
The ruler of the
----
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him in the trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save
%%*
*
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events,
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
Changed line(s) 672,690 (click to see context) from:
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
to:
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%*PainfulTransformation
TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
*PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''LadyTheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her,good guys, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares a SwordFight with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the BastetArthur, but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does,it's often in a whisper.
DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%*UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%*
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
*
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her,
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does,
%%*
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
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[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 3]]
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 4]]
! The White Dragon: Aithusa
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 4]]
! The White Dragon: Aithusa
to:
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 4]]
! The
!!Aithusa
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to:
!!!'''Played By:''' N/A
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to:
----
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! Helios (Terence Maynard)
to:
[[folder:Helios]]
!!Helios
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to:
!!!'''Played By:''' Terence Maynard
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to:
----
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[[folder:Minor Characters]]
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
to:
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Vivienne
Morgana
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamCaroline Faber
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological
Merlin's mother, who
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her,
----
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName:
*
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
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[[folder:Kings, Queens, Princesses, and Other Assorted Royals]]
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
to:
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamJohn Lynch
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
----
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Freya]]
!!Freya
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/freya_5160.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Laura Donnelly
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady of the Lake]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} The Diamond of the Day Part II]].'' [[note]]Or at least her arm does[[/note]]
----
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him in the trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save Camelot by advising Merlin and giving him Excalibur.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tom]]
!!Tom
!!!'''Played By:''' David Durham
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
----
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
----
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Alice]]
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
----
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Gilli]]
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
----
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Alator]]
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
----
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
----
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
[[/folder]]
!!Royalty
[[folder:King Bayard]]
!!Bayard
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!!!'''Played By:''' Clive Russell
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----
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!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
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[[folder:King Odin]]
!!Odin
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!!!'''Played By:''' Fintan [=McKeown=]
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----
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!! King Alined (David Schofield)
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[[folder:King Alined]]
!!Alined
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!!!'''Played By:''' David Schofield
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----
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!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
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[[folder:King Olaf]]
!!Olaf
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/MarkLewisJones
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----
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!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
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[[folder:Lady Vivian]]
!!Vivian
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/GeorgiaMoffett
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----
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!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
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[[folder:Princess Elena]]
!!Elena
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/GeorgiaKing
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----
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!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
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[[folder:Lord Godwyn]]
!!Godwyn
!!!'''Played By:''' Simon Williams
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----
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!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
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[[folder:King Caerleon]]
!!Caerleon
!!!'''Played By:''' Steven Hartley
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!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
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[[folder:Queen Annis]]
!!Annis
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/LindsayDuncan
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!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
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[[folder:Princess Mithian]]
!!Mithian
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JanetMontgomery
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!! King Rodor (James Fox)
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[[folder:King Rodor]]
!!Rodor
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!!!'''Played By:''' James Fox
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!!Allies
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamCaroline Faber
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamCaroline Faber
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
to:
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to
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* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
to:
* ActionMom: She joins in ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the rest of elderly witch and the Ealdor villagers young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one whendefending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Thoughshe wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: Whencasts her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.final spell.
*TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
*OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she does have looks into a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the factmirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.realizes that she's an imposter.
*ThePollyanna: Hunith has a NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The veryhopeful and optimistic nature. Seems first foe that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enoughhas to buy face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With heras Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to belast strength, she flings a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatimdagger at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, includingArthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly frombut Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).way]].
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
*
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
*
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
*
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from
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[[folder:Balinor]]
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamJohn Lynch
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' David DurhamJohn Lynch
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
to:
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"You don't choose to become
A knight who enters a
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In
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* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
to:
* ActionDad: TheBrute: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: Instrong and violent and even without the GrandFinale help of magic, a challenge to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is thenature colour of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived roughcowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
tournament.
*BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands:ForTheEvulz: He's able given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly toheal Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur'swound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says thisfirst enemy to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
defeat, mainly through combat.
*InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathisesVillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.door unlocked?
* BackForTheFinale: In
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough
*
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands:
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this
*
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
Changed line(s) 1137,1143 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tom]]
!!Tom
!!!'''Played By:''' David Durham
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
!!Tom
!!!'''Played By:''' David Durham
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
to:
!!Tom
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going
[-"I want my face to be
Changed line(s) 1145,1153 (click to see context) from:
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
to:
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives BestServedCold: As a child, his first appearance, only parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to be killed by castle guards in exact his second.
revenge.
*TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty{{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of other far more important characters have fallen prey Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, butdespite dying in series 1, Tom Edwin's examination of Morgana is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.still creepily intimate.
*MysticalPlague: But is healed DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by Merlin.
anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
*SacrificialLion: DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: Thefirst reoccurring character to get killed off.evil kind.
*SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was usingInTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his blacksmithing skills facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers toexperiment Morgana with alchemy.a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
*
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
*
*
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The
*
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1156,1163 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
to:
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic
[-"For a
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels
Changed line(s) 1165,1176 (click to see context) from:
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
to:
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: IsBeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the only Ealdor villager better to insist they should leave lure men to their homes instead of defending their village, deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into theonly main character castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns todie by the credits.
denote her mystical status.
*ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur afterhis one and only episode.
enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
*HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
*ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: IsRedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
*SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizingUngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back justshe needed rescuing in the nick of time.
first place.
*SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
(since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
*UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to
*
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after
*
*
* MuggleBestFriend: Is
*
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just
*
*
Changed line(s) 1179,1186 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alice]]
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
to:
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the
A gifted healer
Changed line(s) 1188,1196 (click to see context) from:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
to:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, withher life, but she his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to andGaius are parted - presumably for good.
including cold-blooded murder.
*CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
*HealingHands: PetTheDog: It's stated clear by the end that she everything he's done has a gift for healing.
been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
*InformedAbility: RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius states gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits thatshe's more powerful he pays to stage an attack on himself and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
sole survivor.
*TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With GaiusYourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and
*
*
*
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that
*
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
Changed line(s) 1199,1206 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Gilli]]
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
to:
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in
Changed line(s) 1208,1218 (click to see context) from:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
to:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, withkilling someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities topointed teeth and weird growths on their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though hislife.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best knownsize might qualify them as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
CuteLittleFangs.
*DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin doesn't approve of kills him in his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: Thesecond half of his motivation, appearance in wanting to make a name for himself.
[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
*ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. WingedHumanoid: He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known
*
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The
*
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
Changed line(s) 1221,1226 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alator]]
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
to:
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who
Changed line(s) 1228,1251 (click to see context) from:
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
to:
* TheAtoner: He refers AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
bring him back from the dead.
*BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. OverlapsBackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with ChromeDomePsi because Nimueh's help he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: Hereturns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introducedas a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.wraith.
*FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in theknowledge that she will middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeatedno matter what she does.
by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
*HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He'sactually a fairly neutral character, risen as this via necromancy, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty referred to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doublesas a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire:wraith. He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secretambulate perfectly and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearanceis driven by desire for revenge on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying consideringUther, but he's really a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
*WarriorMonk: {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He'sa deeply religious man who also knows how finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.defeat him.
*
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps
* TheBusCameBack: He
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced
*
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated
*
* RevenantZombie: He's
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire:
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering
*
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1254,1261 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They
Changed line(s) 1263,1278 (click to see context) from:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
to:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, anda FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They gopart of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into battle together Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind andfight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthurpleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.kill Uther.
*TheCynic: Tristan
ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
*[[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because theend of season four, chose real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther toteam up make him fall in love with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
her.
*{{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde,have an outlaw appetite for rotten food and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isoldesubsequently have stinking breath.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
*
*
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to
*
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde,
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
Changed line(s) 1281,1289 (click to see context) from:
!!Other Villains
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
to:
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A
Changed line(s) 1291,1306 (click to see context) from:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
to:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that theelderly three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding theyoung woman she disguises herself as.
chinks in their armour.
*CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
*ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end,TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though she still has enough strength left in her he refers to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving themhimself as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].witch ''finder''.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the
*
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
*
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end,
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
Changed line(s) 1309,1314 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Valiant]]
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
to:
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
A knight who enters a tournament at
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot
The leader of a
Changed line(s) 1316,1329 (click to see context) from:
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
to:
* TheBrute: AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He'sstrong genuinely devoted to his cause, and violent seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: YellowMordred, but is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivationobviously not above manipulating everyone for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
his own ends.
* HandsomeLech:He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best himHe's good looking, but rather skeevy in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes onhis shield
pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
*PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is ManipulativeBastard: He clearly even more dishonourable knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlinorder to face, Valiant is Arthur's enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the firstenemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
time we see him.
*VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the door unlocked?conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation
* HandsomeLech:
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on
*
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first
*
Changed line(s) 1332,1339 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Edwin Muirden]]
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
to:
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A
Changed line(s) 1341,1356 (click to see context) from:
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
to:
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They wereburnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to exact his revenge.
TheDarkSide.
*{{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
*CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
*CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more thanmost examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana witha deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the titlefew similarities to the two-part GrandFinale.
Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
*PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation --SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther for executing while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks hisparents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes acrossblow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries thisthe source of the sleeping curse on Merlin.Camelot).
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were
*
*
*
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title
*
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation --
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this
Changed line(s) 1359,1366 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sophia]]
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a
Changed line(s) 1368,1383 (click to see context) from:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
to:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: SheAffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and her father get themselves charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin intoCamelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthurhelping him gather the tools he needs to get herself find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into thecastle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.knight's cooking pot.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
Changed line(s) 1386,1393 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aulfic]]
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It is my fate to live
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a
A
Changed line(s) 1395,1406 (click to see context) from:
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
to:
* AsYouKnow: He relates AdaptationalVillainy: In the plan myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending tohis daughter (which devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, sheknew perfectly well) in order uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to fill charm the audience in Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only towhat they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a memberlose control of this race, albeit an exiled one.them.
*EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
*KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form isfor his daughter, up a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- toand including cold-blooded murder.seduce, then destroy.
*LargeHam: He's certainly not TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear bymore time she spends with the end that everything he's done has been Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia tosave his daughter's life, be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness andis prepared to sacrifice himself fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.forest.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member
*
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
*
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to
*
* PetTheDog: It's clear by
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
Changed line(s) 1409,1414 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sidhe Elder]]
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
to:
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
The ruler of
A shade resurrected from the
Changed line(s) 1416,1422 (click to see context) from:
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
to:
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that hissubjects into friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his bodyof the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organisedfor a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit cremation on the throne waters of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk ofLake Avalon.
*OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome:DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin kills cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him inhis second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
matching black.
*WingedHumanoid: RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: Hehas wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of
*
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome:
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in
*
* SoullessShell: He
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
Changed line(s) 1425,1432 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tristan de Bois]]
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
to:
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother,
A powerful druid who
Changed line(s) 1434,1453 (click to see context) from:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
to:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring himback from the dead.
information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
*BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with Nimueh's help he returns as his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up awraith.line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
*BigEntrance: YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window inseems genuine about the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subjectnobility of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owainecause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target oftruly loves his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.daughter.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
*
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
*
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
Changed line(s) 1456,1463 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Catrina]]
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls
[-"It is not a crime to fight for
A
Changed line(s) 1465,1473 (click to see context) from:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
to:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
*BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentionson both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to seduce and kill Uther.death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
*ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that shereverts back into doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to hertrue form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
*GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How shebecomes Queen of sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target andimmediately starts has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: Howbe unforgiveable.
*** Though technically shecontrols Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspectsnever actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
*
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions
*
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
*
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and
* HypnoTrinket: How
*** Though technically she
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
Changed line(s) 1476,1483 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aredian]]
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
to:
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A
Changed line(s) 1485,1495 (click to see context) from:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
to:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
*DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowersDistressedDamsel in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
*FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
*{{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin andFemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the closest one seat of finding true wizards.
power.
*ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and finding after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expectmenfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.the audience.
*TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to himself gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's awitch ''finder''.DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
*
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers
*
*
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and
*
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
*
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
Deleted line(s) 1497,1680 (click to see context) :
[[folder:Alvarr]]
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
----
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
----
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Julius Borden]]
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
----
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Lamia]]
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
----
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Lancelot du Lac]]
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/SantiagoCabrera
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
----
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Ruadan]]
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/LiamCunningham
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
----
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Kara]]
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
----
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Eira]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
----
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
[[/folder]]
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!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
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!!Other Allies
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
to:
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.
[[folder:Hunith]]
!!Hunith
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it
[-"It is every mother's fate to
Merlin's
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* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
to:
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: IsActionMom: She joins in the only rest of the Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of villagers when defending their village, and the only main character home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or dieby the credits.
trying.
*ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: WithMamaBear: Towards Merlin when he returns of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him toEaldor.
remain safe from harm.
*MuggleBestFriend: Is [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's[[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
mother.
*SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
*ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nickend of time.
''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
*SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur suspects and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from theuse of magic in episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the defence end of Ealdor, he takes series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the blame attackers into the forest, and we're just before dying left to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: Inassume that they left Hunith and the platonic sense. (Maybe).other villagers alone).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die
*
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to
*
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's
*
*
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick
*
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In
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[[folder:Alice]]
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
to:
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
!!Balinor
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known.
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Changed line(s) 1183,1191 (click to see context) from:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
to:
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life withher life, but she Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, andGaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
things happen.
* HealingHands:It's stated He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers thatshe Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has agift good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature forhealing.
his spells.
*InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode under leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in thethrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaiussame episode that he is introduced.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands:
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for
*
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
Changed line(s) 1194,1201 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Gilli]]
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
to:
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!Tom
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"I'm not
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over
Guinevere's father, the
Changed line(s) 1203,1213 (click to see context) from:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
to:
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to thisdelusion. When he actually goes through trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As withkilling someone, he finds it's Guinevere, he's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him asgiven a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.second name.
*DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this MysticalPlague: But is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
healed by Merlin.
*{{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial:SacrificialLion: The second half of his motivation, in wanting first reoccurring character to make a name for himself.get killed off.
*ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
second episode he appears in.
*MagicRing: This is the source of UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powersblacksmithing skills to him.experiment with alchemy.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
*
*
* IJustWantToBeSpecial:
*
*
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers
Changed line(s) 1216,1221 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alator]]
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
to:
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
A HighPriest of
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the
Changed line(s) 1223,1246 (click to see context) from:
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
to:
* TheAtoner: He refers BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager tohis days as a torturer as "not something insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to be proud of" in his second appearance.
die by the credits.
*BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic:ForgottenFallenFriend: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control never mentioned again after his one and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, aninnate psychic power.
arrow) meant for Arthur.
*TheBusCameBack: He ManHug: With Merlin when he returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... onlyto be killed by Morgana.
Ealdor.
*DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana,MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing thatno matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to his village stands little chance of winning against the other world happy bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in theknowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriestnick of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
time.
* SecretKeeper:One of the few who discovers He knows all about Merlin's secret secret, and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance onwhen Arthur suspects the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires himuse of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to extract information from Gaius.
protect said secret.
*ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to
*
* BaldMystic:
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an
*
** BackForTheDead: ... only
*
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana,
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper:
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him
*
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1249,1256 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A
Changed line(s) 1258,1273 (click to see context) from:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
to:
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team upBittersweetEnding: She escapes with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, theyher life, but she and Gaius are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
parted - presumably for good.
*GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still does adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends theright thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outsideentire episode under the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance inthrall of the show was a bit random.
Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
*VasquezAlwaysDies: IsoldeTheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they
*
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in
*
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
Changed line(s) 1276,1284 (click to see context) from:
!!Other Villains
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EveMyles
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
to:
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides
[-"I'm not going to
A young man with a
Changed line(s) 1286,1301 (click to see context) from:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
to:
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in theelderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
*ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally.DudeWheresMyRespect: After murdering a singer being shunned and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearancebullied all his life, this is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her his key motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther -- and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep awhirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she stepssecret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in front very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half ofa mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appearshis motivation, in wanting to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as make a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.name for himself.
*TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This ishow Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
*NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
*RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe thatTearsOfRemorse: When Merlin has demonstrates his magical powers to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].him.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
*
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of
* LifeDrinker: She appears
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
*
* MagicRing: This is
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
*
*
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
Changed line(s) 1304,1309 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Valiant]]
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Will Mellor
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
to:
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
A
Changed line(s) 1311,1324 (click to see context) from:
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
to:
* TheBrute: TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He'sstrong a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and violent and even without the help psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness ofmagic, a challenge Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only todefeat be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana inbattle.
her schemes right up until her death.
*CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz:EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's given introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that nodiscernable motivation for matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he does... will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he'sjust an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of ajerk, basically.
sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
*HandsomeLech: He comes KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users onpretty strongly the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morganawhen meeting her kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead atcourt.
least until his second appearance]]).
*KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent:SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him tolife and attack anyone extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man whothreatens also knows how to best him defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} incombat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater;that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Justdoesn't mean it as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this toface, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?Merlin.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of
** BackForTheDead: ... only to
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in
*
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz:
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a
*
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on
* NeckSnap: How Morgana
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at
*
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent:
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater;
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
Changed line(s) 1327,1334 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Edwin Muirden]]
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
to:
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"I want my face to be
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the
A
Changed line(s) 1336,1351 (click to see context) from:
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
to:
* BestServedCold: As ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands;FauxActionGirl before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
*CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each ofthis trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.them have rather unsettling smiles.
*DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose toMorgana team up with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe toArthur after he's proven his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.worth to them.
*InTheHood: He wears a deep hood {{Expy}}: According to hide his facial scarring.
writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
*ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give thisaffliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.vibe.
*VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as OutlawCouple: They're a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
*WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands;
*
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of
*
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
*
*
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
*
*
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
Changed line(s) 1354,1361 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sophia]]
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon
Changed line(s) 1363,1378 (click to see context) from:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
to:
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Beforeelderly witch and the young woman she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to getdisguises herself into the castle.
as.
*GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow redCobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur savesher from a stray bolt from a crossbow, final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she'snot remotely grateful - only bitter that breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so sheneeded rescuing can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in thefirst place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seemend, though she still has enough strength left in her to be any ''particular'' need make a last attempt to seduce kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur(since by proxy) and the magical implements she ends up hypnotizing him), but uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever shedoes it anyway.
steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
*YourHeadAsplode: LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlinblows realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for herup. It's own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings abit disconcerting.dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
* BigNo: Before
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get
*
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she
*
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a
Changed line(s) 1381,1388 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aulfic]]
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Kenneth Cranham
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
to:
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Valiant
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A
Changed line(s) 1390,1401 (click to see context) from:
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
to:
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam:TheBrute: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, strong and violent and even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear bywithout the end that everything help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he'sdone just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield hasbeen three poisonous snakes upon it that come to save life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on hisdaughter's life, and is prepared shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic tosacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius getsfight makes him a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The banditscheater; that he pays to stage an attack on himself and utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably hisdaughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
*YourHeadAsplode: StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam:
* PetTheDog: It's clear by
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits
* ShoutOut: Presumably his
*
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
Changed line(s) 1404,1409 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sidhe Elder]]
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Jenn
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
to:
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.
!!Edwin Muirden
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
The ruler of
[-"I want my face to be the
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and
Changed line(s) 1411,1417 (click to see context) from:
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
to:
* ChangelingTale: BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: Heinitiates one gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sendingone of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidheflowers to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue,Morgana with pointed teeth a deadly beetle concealed inside, and weird growths on their faces.
then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
*FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome:DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin kills him in has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: TheChangeling]].
evil kind.
*WingedHumanoid: InTheHood: He has wings but (apart from wears a few weird deep hood to hide his facial features and scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with ablue tint) otherwise looks human.sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
* {{Blackmail}}: He
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue,
*
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome:
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The
*
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
Changed line(s) 1420,1427 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Tristan de Bois]]
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
to:
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.
!!Sophia
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to
[-"For a
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to
Changed line(s) 1429,1448 (click to see context) from:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
to:
* AnimateDead: Nimueh BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic tobring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouringhypnotize Arthur.
*BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challengingRedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the Knights of Camelot to this until either usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthuror Uther face him.
** He diedsaves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
first place.
*DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shownTheVamp: There doesn't seem to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once bringsany ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther,hypnotizing him), but he's really she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's aa dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.bit disconcerting.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring
*
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur
** He died
*
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther,
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
Changed line(s) 1451,1458 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Catrina]]
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.
!!Aulfric
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only
[-"It is my fate to live a
A member of
A hideous troll that takes on
Changed line(s) 1460,1468 (click to see context) from:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
to:
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part ofAsYouKnow: He relates the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentionsplan to seduce and kill Uther.his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
*ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to andeveryone but Uther can clearly see it.
including cold-blooded murder.
*GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, andimmediately starts is prepared to raise taxes.
sacrifice himself in the process.
*HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail:RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius suspects her because gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills thereal Catrina had a rare bone condition.
sole survivor.
*LovePotion: She YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses on Uther his own staff to make simply blow him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.up.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
*
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and
*
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and
*
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail:
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the
*
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
Changed line(s) 1471,1478 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Aredian]]
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
to:
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.
!!Sidhe Elder
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one
The ruler of the
Changed line(s) 1480,1490 (click to see context) from:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
to:
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath:ChangelingTale: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learninitiates one by sending one of his arrival, especially Morgana.
subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
*FalseConfession: He extracts {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify themfrom his victims.
as CuteLittleFangs.
*{{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius,SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinkskills him in their armour.
his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
*SignatureHeadgear: WingedHumanoid: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect wings but (apart from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself asa witch ''finder''. few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
* DisneyVillainDeath:
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn
*
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them
*
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius,
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks
*
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as
Changed line(s) 1493,1500 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Alvarr]]
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
to:
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!!Tristan de Bois
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"To be an enemy of
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot
The leader of a group of Druids
Changed line(s) 1502,1511 (click to see context) from:
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
to:
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her onAnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the cheek.
dead.
*BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quiteBackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.a wraith.
*ManipulativeBastard: BigEntrance: He clearly knows which leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon ofMorgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarrchoice is set up as a fairly important figure greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in theconflict between Druids middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day andCamelot, but is wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine neverseen or once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred toagain.as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on
*
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
*
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
Changed line(s) 1514,1515 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:The Knights of Medhir]]
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
to:
!!Catrina
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming
Changed line(s) 1517,1530 (click to see context) from:
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
to:
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputationAlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed sofearsome that warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediatelyorders Arthur starts to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
raise taxes.
*FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
*MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight sparesImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses onCamelot).Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
* TheDreaded: Their reputation
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately
*
*
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares
* LovePotion: She uses on
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
Changed line(s) 1533,1538 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Julius Borden]]
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
to:
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.
!!Aredian
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
An old pupil
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who
Changed line(s) 1540,1548 (click to see context) from:
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
to:
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and charming.
it makes him look badass.
*DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learnmuch about it.
of his arrival, especially Morgana.
*DeceptiveDisciple: To FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
*LeftForDead: FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlinleaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard:Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shavechinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has awhile.
wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
*SufferTheSlings: His main weapon TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of choice.his actions whether past or present.
*TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to fire himself as a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.witch ''finder''.
*
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn
*
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
*
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin
* ManipulativeBastard:
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a
*
*
Changed line(s) 1551,1558 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Lamia]]
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
to:
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.
!!Alvarr
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind
[-"To be an enemy of
Changed line(s) 1560,1576 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
to:
* AdaptationalVillainy: In AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on themyths, not all lamia were evil.
cheek.
*BloodMagic: How BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on thelamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers renderDVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the partend of the innocent victim, all episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as thewhile fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.audience knows he's just manipating her.
*HatePlague: Her magic infects ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing theknights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the morefirst time she spends with the Knights.
we see him.
*TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon herfairly important figure in the forest.conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the
*
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
*
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more
*
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her
Changed line(s) 1579,1584 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Lancelot du Lac]]
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/SantiagoCabrera
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/SantiagoCabrera
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
to:
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/SantiagoCabrera
A
Changed line(s) 1586,1606 (click to see context) from:
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
to:
* BackFromTheDead: {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morganauses a magical coin to raise him from but checks his blow at the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's onelast glimpse of moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is whatKnight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he wasas himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift onthe Lake source of Avalon.the sleeping curse on Camelot).
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on
Changed line(s) 1609,1614 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Ruadan]]
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/LiamCunningham
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/LiamCunningham
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
to:
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.
!!Julius Borden
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
A powerful druid
An old pupil of Gaius who
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* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
to:
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: AffablyEvil: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefacomes to bring across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves himinformation.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
to die in a CollapsingLair.
*PetTheDog: ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: Hiscold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a linemain weapon of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.choice.
*YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He seems genuine about uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.knight's cooking pot.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
*
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
*
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[[folder:Kara]]
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
to:
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.
!!Lamia
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.
!!!'''Played By:'''
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the
A
Changed line(s) 1637,1655 (click to see context) from:
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
to:
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
*DefiantToTheEnd: BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: Sherefuses plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, sherejoices in his own impending doom.uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
*DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as HatePlague: Her magic infects the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.knights like this.
*YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though shesees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelotcan take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such alegitimate target and has no remorse over love of killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this they became impossible to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technicallycontrol.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, shenever actually harms transforms in a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness andlater kills a castle guard that was preventing fatigue when the Knights chance upon her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.in the forest.
*
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
*
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
*
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a
*** Though technically
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and
Changed line(s) 1658,1662 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Eira]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
to:
!!Eira
!!Lancelot du Lac
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:'''
A
Changed line(s) 1664,1674 (click to see context) from:
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
to:
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the whole time.
dead.
*BitchInSheepsClothing: She {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made aDistressedDamsel in order HeroicSacrifice to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access tosave Camelot.
*FemmeFataleSpy: She's DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as aspy traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier andseduces Gwaine subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in order his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him toget closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's givenstating that he has no motivation or depth whatsoever, and idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, afterfive solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
his tryst with Gwen.
*HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introducedPaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
matching black.
*PublicExecution: She's hanged on RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
*RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable GwaineSoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles. under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
*
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to
*
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to
* FlatCharacter: She's given
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after
*
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced
*
*
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
Added DiffLines:
[[folder:Ruadan]]
!!Ruadan
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/LiamCunningham
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
----
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Kara]]
!!Kara
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/AlexandraDowling
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
----
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Eira]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
----
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
[[/folder]]
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Changed line(s) 11,18 (click to see context) from:
!!!Knights
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' SantiagoCabrera
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' SantiagoCabrera
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
to:
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[folder:Queen Ygraine]]
!!Ygraine Pendragon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"I would die for
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you
A commoner who desires to become a knight
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot.
Changed line(s) 20,86 (click to see context) from:
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
%%* WhiteStallion
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
%%* WhiteStallion
to:
* ActionHero: He's AdaptationalConsent: In the most skilled of the knights, original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped asidewas conceived when he saw the love beteween her [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemiesslept with just his sword.
her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead:[[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
Very temporarily.
*BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to be highly protective of conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
*BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
*BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
*BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was thispertains more during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance tothe original Arthurian legend although it can also apply Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to the series.secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
*[[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: InMysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, two instances she ''does'' appear, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', whichunclear whether her spirit is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is suchtruly manifesting, or whether it's just a gentleman and so noble.spell or hallucination.
*{{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to OjouRinglets: She has the same knightly code two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of honour but is unfailingly nice her face, denoting both innocence and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is theseries). And he's reason for the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helpsGreat Purge, which informs practically everything that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.follows.
*IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the promise]].
start of the show.
*IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Season 2 after realizing that Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is in love with Gwen, clearly still grieving for her, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preservethe Arthur/Gwen relationship.
exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
*KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.feminine.
*LongingLook: His expression RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part ofchoice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commonerdeal Uther made with no title Nimeuh to his name to a Knight of Camelot in season three.
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue toensure Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and compassionate, birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur ismore passionate, impulsive and hot-headed.
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due tothe life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' spitting image of them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar onhis cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
%%* WhiteStallionmother.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies
* BackFromTheDead:
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
*
*
*
*
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
*
* CatchPhrase: In
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such
*
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
*
*
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve
*
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
*
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%* PuppyDogEyes
* RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner
* RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is
* RescueRomance: Played straight and then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
* ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the Sensitive Guy to Gwaine and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
%%* WhiteStallion
Changed line(s) 89,94 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sir Leon]]
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/leon-1_3351.jpg]]
-> ''Played By:''' Rupert Young
A Knight of Camelot seen throughout series 2 and made a semi-regular in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/leon-1_3351.jpg]]
-> ''Played By:''' Rupert Young
A Knight of Camelot seen throughout series 2 and made a semi-regular in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.
!!Agravaine de Bois
[[quoteright:199:https://static.tvtropes.
A Knight of Camelot seen throughout series 2 and made
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems."-]
Arthur's uncle on his mother's side, Agravaine has been helping his nephew run the kingdom during Uther's sickness. It soon becomes clear that he's not a
Changed line(s) 96,119 (click to see context) from:
* ActionHero: He's a Knight of Camelot who uses combat to solve missions.
* AscendedExtra: Goes from being a background Knight to one of Arthur's closest friends.
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning of the next. Later seemed to have died during an attack on his patrol but survived certain death by drinking from a magical cup given to him by the druids and returned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. He's even in one of the last shots.]]
* AscendedExtra: Goes from being a background Knight to one of Arthur's closest friends.
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.
* CanonForeigner: On account of him starting as a BitCharacter and becoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* TheLancer: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
* OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position as a major cast member.
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by a dragon at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning of the next. Later seemed to have died during an attack on his patrol but survived certain death by drinking from a magical cup given to him by the druids and returned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. He's even in one of the last shots.]]
to:
* ActionHero: He's AffablyEvil: He can put up a Knight veneer of Camelot who uses combat courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems tosolve missions.have a thing for Morgana. She couldn't care less.
*AscendedExtra: Goes from ArcVillain: Agravaine has a huge influence in season four due to being a background Knight to the uncle of Arthur. He's pretty much one of the main villains alongside Morgana throughout season four.
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur'sclosest friends.loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
*BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in theend of season 3 eye and swear on his dead sister's life that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and [[LikeBrotherAndSister the two of them grew up together]].
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.he isn't betraying him. (He is).
*CanonForeigner: On account of CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him starting as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway asa BitCharacter to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court andbecoming an AscendedExtra thanks to the actor's popularity among the rest of the cast, Sir Leon is the only knight of the Round Table that has no basis in Arthurian legend.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottlesgoes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and overturning tables. It's difficult to imagine the later, more gentler, Leon doing such a thing.
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: WithGuinevere.
*DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him as a woman DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in order to smuggle him out of Camelot after Morgana's coup.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
case.
*TheLancer: TheDragon: To Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.Morgana during season four.
*NumberTwo: He seems to be EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthuramong the Knights.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
*OlderAndWiser: Among the Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur haveHiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been friends for ages, but he barely shows up in Season 1, if at all.led to expect.
*ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his position HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a major manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
*UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being"immortal". Got fried by a dragon introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of one series, was completely fine at the beginning of the next. Later seemed to have died that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during an attack on his patrol but survived certain run. Even [[spoiler:his death by drinking from a magical cup given to scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting himby the druids so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, andreturned to Camelot more or less unharmed. [[spoiler: And now, contrary to all reasonable expectations, he has actually survived the whole series. Something ''Arthur'' didn't manage to do. He's even in one [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of the last shots.]]FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to
*
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
*
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: It really shines in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon]]''.
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, Leon is seen to be protective of Merlin.
*
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: In one of his first appearances (''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]'') he is shown tearing apart Gaius's study in an attempt to find evidence of magic, smashing bottles
** Though in fairness, it was during a WitchHunt that [[OOCIsSeriousBusiness left tensions running high]]. After all, if he hadn't have searched ''everything'' and it later turned out that Gaius ''was'' a sorcerer, Leon could have been burnt at the stake as a collaborator.
* ChildhoodFriends: With
*
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
*
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
*
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MauveShirt
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
*
%%* OnlyOneName
* RememberTheNewGuy: Supposedly, he and Arthur have
*
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
*
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
Changed line(s) 122,129 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Gwaine]]
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/gwaine_4553.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Creator/EoinMacken
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside that counts".-]
A man who saves Arthur during a brawl at a town tavern, Gwaine is given hospitality at Camelot until his injuries heal. He resents nobles and is secretly the son of a knight. He helps Merlin in protecting Arthur from danger during the melee. He is a future [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gawain Knight of the Round Table]]. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/gwaine_4553.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Creator/EoinMacken
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life is that titles don't mean anything. It's what's inside that counts".-]
A man who saves Arthur during a brawl at a town tavern, Gwaine is given hospitality at Camelot until his injuries heal. He resents nobles and is secretly the son of a knight. He helps Merlin in protecting Arthur from danger during the melee. He is a future [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gawain Knight of the Round Table]]. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!Gwaine
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"If there's
[-"I would die for you one
A
Changed line(s) 131,136 (click to see context) from:
%%* ActionHero
* TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most of the time.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Seems to have adopted this stance toward Merlin and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
* TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most of the time.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal: So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Seems to have adopted this stance toward Merlin and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
to:
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal:
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct:
Changed line(s) 138,157 (click to see context) from:
* BigDamnHeroes: [[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
* BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the beginning.
* BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and fun-loving.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
* BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the beginning.
* BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and fun-loving.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
to:
* BigDamnHeroes: [[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
With Percival.
*BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although Gwaine never acknowledges it in can also apply to the beginning.series.
*BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name isfriendly, extroverted, charming Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants andfun-loving.what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According He adheres to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and same knightly code of honour but is genuinely unfailingly nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt polite as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: Intemper tantrums (especially early on in the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin'sTheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close themediator between door to the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
spirit world]].
%%*HeroesPreferSwords
HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners:He's often seen with Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hintsWith Merlin. It helps that he is something they both think the world of a womanizer.
each other.
* HonourBeforeReason:Refuses to expose his identity as Rejects the son offer of becoming a real knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king Camelot in their land refused favour of first being true to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.himself.
%%* HumbleHero
*
*
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* FreudianTrio: In
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%*
* HeterosexualLifePartners:
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints
* HonourBeforeReason:
%%* HumbleHero
Changed line(s) 159,169 (click to see context) from:
* KilledOffForReal: As of ''The Diamond of the Day Part 2.''
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
* TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
* TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
to:
* KilledOffForReal: As of ''The Diamond of the Day Part 2.''
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from aIncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bitof a drifter.all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour:Gwaine becomes knight He's the best of Camelot the knights in season three.both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
*KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. LongingLook: His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trioexpression of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlinchoice whenever in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
vicinity of Guinevere.
*TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock. MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour:
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
*
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
%%* MasterSwordsman
*
Changed line(s) 171,174 (click to see context) from:
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
to:
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
*NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and Arthur with Gwaine as noblest person in the Roguish Male entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.Lancelot.
*
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
Changed line(s) 176,181 (click to see context) from:
%%* PermaStubble
* PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the most humorous characters in the series, especially alongside Merlin.
* ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the collar of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and snark.
* PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the most humorous characters in the series, especially alongside Merlin.
* ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the collar of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and snark.
to:
* PermaStubble: His five o' clock shadow is a feature of his character design.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%*PermaStubble
PuppyDogEyes
*PluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one RagsToRiches: Sort of. He goes from a poor commoner with no title to his name to a Knight of the most humorous characters Camelot in the series, especially alongside Merlin.season three.
*ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing RedOniBlueOni: Lancelot is the Blue to Arthur's Red. While Lancelot is more sensitive, calm, and playing jokes on Merlin compassionate, Arthur is more passionate, impulsive and the other knights.hot-headed.
*ShirtlessScene: At least three in his introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- RescueRomance: Played straight and if he is wearing a shirt, then {{subverted}} in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E04LancelotAndGuinevere}} Lancelot and Guinevere]]''. The two of them bond extremely quickly due to the collar life-or-death situation they find themselves in, but it is actually Arthur who ends up saving ''both'' of said shirt is at least hanging open enough to give them.
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In theaudience [[MrFanservice something love triangle between himself, Arthur and Gwen. Lancelot is a commoner (Poor Suitor) and Arthur is a wealthy royal (Rich Suitor).
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict tolook at.]]
the Arthur/Gwen romance.
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
*TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, ScarsAreForever: Subverted. In 2x04 he's given a scar on his cheek which has disappeared by his next appearance in series 3.
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also theone most likely Sensitive Guy to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight:Gwaine is and Percival's Manly Man.
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In theking of sarcasm and snark.Arthurian legends, their love affair is just, if not, even more tragic.
* PrettyBoy: Manages to be this ''and'' a {{Hunk}}. How is that even possible?
%%*
*
*
*
* RichSuitorPoorSuitor: In the
%%* TheRival
* RomanticFalseLead: His reappearance causes some conflict to
%%* RomanticRunnerUp
%%* [[spoiler:SacrificialLion]]
*
* SecretKeeper: One of only two regular characters that knows Merlin's secret.
* SelfMadeMan: Born a commoner.
%%* SelfProclaimedKnight
* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: The Sensitive Guy to Arthur's Manly Man.
** Also the
* TheSnarkKnight:
* SoullessShell: In 4x09, thanks to Morgana.
* SpannerInTheWorks: To Arthur and Guinevere's relationship.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Gwen oh so much. In the
Changed line(s) 183 (click to see context) from:
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
to:
* TrueCompanions: With Merlin, Arthur and the Knights at the Round Table.
%%*TallDarkAndSnarkyWhiteStallion
%%*
Changed line(s) 186,197 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Elyan]]
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/elyan_8791.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Adetomiwa Edun
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one of those people, never settled down, never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him".-]
Guinevere's estranged brother and only sibling. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
%%* ActionHero
* [[AloofOlderBrother Aloof Younger Brother]]: Often away traveling from one place to another and never even visited Gwen when their father died.
%%* BackForTheFinale
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/elyan_8791.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Adetomiwa Edun
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one of those people, never settled down, never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him".-]
Guinevere's estranged brother and only sibling. He appears in the third, fourth and fifth series.
%%* ActionHero
* [[AloofOlderBrother Aloof Younger Brother]]: Often away traveling from one place to another and never even visited Gwen when their father died.
%%* BackForTheFinale
to:
!!Elyan
!!Leon
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one
A Knight of
Guinevere's estranged brother
%%* ActionHero
----
*
* AscendedExtra: Goes from being a background Knight to one
* BackStory: Is linked with Gwen. We find out at the end of season 3 that her mother was a maid in his family's household, and
%%* BackForTheFinale
Changed line(s) 199,208 (click to see context) from:
%%* BadassNormal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
* BlackDudeDiesFirst: {{Averted}}.
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur has brought them to, he comments: "It's gotta be better than that cave."
* DeathInTheLimelight: In the "The Dark Tower". In series 3, Elyan is introduced and knighted. The writers went on to do absolutely nothing with his character until mid-series 5, in an episode which explored his relationship to his sister, made him the key figure in a rescue mission, and gave him more lines than in any previous episodes. Any viewer could see the giant bullseye on his head from the very first scene. Elyan did get a DayInTheLimelight episode in season 4 (that revolved around him being BrainwashedAndCrazy and trying to murder Arthur) but he's still an excellent example of this trope.
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* InTheHood
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
* BlackDudeDiesFirst: {{Averted}}.
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur has brought them to, he comments: "It's gotta be better than that cave."
* DeathInTheLimelight: In the "The Dark Tower". In series 3, Elyan is introduced and knighted. The writers went on to do absolutely nothing with his character until mid-series 5, in an episode which explored his relationship to his sister, made him the key figure in a rescue mission, and gave him more lines than in any previous episodes. Any viewer could see the giant bullseye on his head from the very first scene. Elyan did get a DayInTheLimelight episode in season 4 (that revolved around him being BrainwashedAndCrazy and trying to murder Arthur) but he's still an excellent example of this trope.
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* InTheHood
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
to:
* BearerOfBadNews: It's usually his job to inform people that evil forces are advancing on Camelot.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights,
*
* DeadpanSnarker:
*
** Though in
* ChildhoodFriends: With Guinevere.
* DisguisedInDrag: Guinevere disguises him
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%*
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
Changed line(s) 210 (click to see context) from:
* LongLostSibling: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother.
to:
* LongLostSibling: TheLancer: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother. Arthur.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
* LikeBrotherAndSister: With Gwen. See ChildhoodFriends.
* NumberTwo: He seems to be this to Arthur among the Knights.
Changed line(s) 212,213 (click to see context) from:
%%* MrFanservice
* NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.
* NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.
to:
%%* MrFanservice
MauveShirt
*NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for OlderAndWiser: Among the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.Knights. And it shows, as he is often calm, collected and sensible.
*
Changed line(s) 215,218 (click to see context) from:
* RaceLift: The legendary Elyan was known as "Elyan the White". In the series, he's played by a black actor. Granted, "the White" would have referred to his pure soul, but it's still pretty funny.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that he and Guinevere were estranged for years.
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' to his sister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that he and Guinevere were estranged for years.
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' to his sister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
to:
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least,
* ShirtlessScene: Which cemented his
* UnexplainedRecovery: Known amongst fans for being "immortal". Got fried by
%%* TokenMinority
Changed line(s) 221,228 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Percival]]
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/percival_7190.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Creator/TomHopper
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
A warrior who arrives with Lancelot in order to help Arthur and his loyalists take back Camelot. Having showed up in the very last episode of the third season, we learn very little about him. He appeared in the third, fourth and fifth series.
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/percival_7190.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' Creator/TomHopper
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
A warrior who arrives with Lancelot in order to help Arthur and his loyalists take back Camelot. Having showed up in the very last episode of the third season, we learn very little about him. He appeared in the third, fourth and fifth series.
to:
!!Percival
!Gwaine
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"Your enemies are
[-"If there's one thing that I learned from my
A
Changed line(s) 231,244 (click to see context) from:
* AdaptationalBadass: In the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
to:
* AdaptationalBadass: In TheAlcoholic: Though not, by any means, in a bad way. Most of the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
time.
%%*BadassCape:
BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal:Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
So, so badass.
* BigBrotherInstinct:Was seen Seems to be very gentle and caring towards have adopted this stance toward Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.and Elyan, the youngest of the new knights.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes:With Lancelot.
[[RuleOfThree Three times]] no less.
*TheBigGuy: Percival is BlueBlood: Gwaine comes from a noble family, although Gwaine never acknowledges it in the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.beginning.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3BoisterousBruiser: Gwaine is friendly, extroverted, charming and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.fun-loving.
%%* GentleGiant* CharacterDevelopment: He started off as resenting all nobles, thanks to his history, and wanting nothing to do with them while [[WalkingTheEarth he drifts from town to town looking for adventure.]] Then he comes across Merlin and Arthur who he saves in a bar fight. After coming to Camelot for his injuries to heal, he quickly make friends with Merlin who through some [[MonsterOfTheWeek shenanigans]] comes to realize Aurthur isn't like the rest of the nobles. Fast forward sometime and you can see Gwaine slowly warming up to Arthur and eventually becoming a royal knight of Camelot under Arthur. You know, turning into the thing he use to hate most.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
%%*
%%* BadassCape
* BadassNormal:
* BigBrotherInstinct:
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes:
*
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
* TheCharmer: Flirts with Gwen in a playful manner, but when he notices Gwen's feelings for Arthur, the two remain good friends. In fact, their "friendliness" is enough to rile Arthur's [[GreenEyedMonster jealousy]] (and Merlin's amusement of said jealousy).
* DeadpanSnarker: He loves his SnarkToSnarkCombat with Arthur and Merlin.
* DemotedToExtra: He became this in series four and five - oddly enough, he got more screen-time and characterization as a guest star than as a series regular.
* DisappearedDad: Which gives Merlin and Gwaine something to [[BirdsOfAFeather bond]] [[CommonalityConnection about]].
* TheDrifter: At least until he's knighted.
* DualWielding: And he makes it Badass.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. According to the creators, Gwaine shows the possible friendship between Arthur and Merlin had Arthur not been royalty and is genuinely nice to Merlin ([[http://zahrawithaz.livejournal.com/25983.html this review says it best]]). He's also defiant to Camelot's elitism as opposed to Arthur, who upholds it. Last but not least, he's fun-loving, casual and a flirt as opposed to Arthur's formality.
* FreudianTrio: In the team of three consisting of himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy/Id (Fun-loving, roguish, carefree, rebellious, daredevil) to Arthur's TheSpock/Superego (Stoic, serious, strategic, noble, courageous) and Merlin's TheKirk/Ego (Balanced, neutral, peacemaker, the mediator between the opposing personalities of Arthur and Gwaine, friends with both Arthur and Gwaine). See TheMcCoy.
* GuestStarPartyMember: Throughout series three, before becoming a regular recurring character in series four.
* HairFlip: Reached MemeticMutation status by the end of his first episode.
Changed line(s) 246 (click to see context) from:
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
to:
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, Percival, the two implied to have become close friends.friends.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
** His friendship with Merlin.
* HiddenDepths: He seems like an alcoholic PrettyBoy, but he's an expert swordsman and smarter than he looks.
* HoneyTrap: Falls into one at the hands of Eira in a subversion of the RescueRomance. He does figure it out pretty quickly, though, and is able to use her to feed Morgana false information. He seems pretty shaken by the whole thing despite previous hints that he is something of a womanizer.
* HonourBeforeReason: Refuses to expose his identity as the son of a knight out of his resentment towards nobles -- when Gwaine's father, a knight, died, Gwaine and his mother were left penniless, and the king in their land refused to give them any compensation. Gwaine would later change his opinion of Arthur after Arthur defends him.
Changed line(s) 248,249 (click to see context) from:
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
to:
* KingIncognito: Gwaine isn't royalty, but secretly comes from a noble family, seeing as his father was a knight.
* KnightErrant: Gwaine is a knight but he's also a bit of a drifter.
* KnightInShiningArmour: Gwaine becomes knight of Camelot in season three.
* KnightInSourArmour: A minor example. His friendship with Merlin seems to be wearing down his cynicism.
* KnightKnaveAndSquire: Gwaine is The Knave to Merlin's The Squire and Arthur's The Knight. They are also a trio of Magic (Merlin), Courage (Arthur) and Strength (Gwaine), according to Grettir.
%%* LoveableRogue
* ManHug: Gives one to Merlin in 3x08, being the first one to hug Merlin.
** And again in 4x02 when [[spoiler: Merlin comes back, healed and alive after the Dorocha attack.]]
Changed line(s) 251 (click to see context) from:
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
to:
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over TheMcCoy/'''Id''' (FreudianTrio): In the rest of trio between himself (Strength), Merlin (Magic) and Arthur (Courage), Gwaine is TheMcCoy to Merlin's TheKirk and Arthur's TheSpock.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as thecharacters.Roguish Male to Arthur's Noble Male.
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin.
* NobleMaleRoguishMale: Gwaine and Arthur with Gwaine as the
** Interestingly enough, both Merlin and Gwaine are Roguish Males in comparison to Arthur who is a Noble Male.
* OddFriendship: With Merlin. The two seem to have absolutely nothing in common, but bond fairly quickly.
Changed line(s) 253,257 (click to see context) from:
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
to:
%%* PermaStubble
*PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, mostPluckyComicRelief: Gwaine is one of the time his armour is sleeveless, most humorous characters in the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.series, especially alongside Merlin.
*TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking ThePrankster: Enjoys teasing and playing jokes on Merlin and the other knights to join him knights.
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in[[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it'shis introductory episode ([[SarcasmMode oddly enough]], titled ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E04Gwaine}} Gwaine]]'') -- and if he is wearing a shirt, the last episode, but Percival collar of said shirt is last seen tracking Arthur at least hanging open enough to give the audience [[MrFanservice something to look at.]]
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm andMerlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].snark.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
*
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most
*
* ShirtlessScene: At least three in
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's
* TheSlacker: Even after becoming a Knight of Camelot, he's the one most likely to be goofing off.
* TheSnarkKnight: Gwaine is the king of sarcasm and
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
Changed line(s) 260,268 (click to see context) from:
!!!Other
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
-> '''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
-> '''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
to:
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.
!!Elyan
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is
[-'''Gwen''': "He's just one of those people, never settled down, never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him".-]
Guinevere's estranged brother and
%%* ActionHero
* [[AloofOlderBrother Aloof Younger Brother]]: Often away traveling from one place to another and never even visited Gwen when their father died.
%%* BackForTheFinale
%%* BadassCape
%%* BadassNormal
* BigBrotherInstinct: Like the other knights, he is protective of Merlin.
* BlackDudeDiesFirst: {{Averted}}.
* DeadpanSnarker: On seeing the ruined castle that Arthur has brought them to, he comments: "It's gotta be better than that cave."
* DeathInTheLimelight: In the "The Dark Tower". In series 3, Elyan is introduced and knighted. The writers went on to do absolutely nothing with his character until mid-series 5, in an episode which explored his relationship to his sister, made him the key figure in a rescue mission, and gave him more lines than in any previous episodes. Any viewer could see the giant bullseye on his head from the very first scene. Elyan did get a DayInTheLimelight episode in season 4 (that revolved around him being BrainwashedAndCrazy and trying to murder Arthur) but he's still an excellent example of this trope.
* DemonicPossession: In 4x10
* HeroesPreferSwords
%%* InTheHood
* ISeeDeadPeople: In 4x10
%%* KilledOffForReal
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LongLostSibling: To Guinevere. Elyan is Gwen's younger brother.
%%* MasterSwordsman
%%* MrFanservice
* NowLetMeCarryYou: He pledges his fealty to Arthur in repayment for the rescue Arthur undertakes in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]''.
%%* OnlyOneName
* RaceLift: The legendary Elyan was known as "Elyan the White". In the series, he's played by a black actor. Granted, "the White" would have referred to his pure soul, but it's still pretty funny.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that he and Guinevere were estranged for years.
* ShipperOnDeck: At the very least, he certainly isn't ''opposed'' to his sister Gwen dating the Prince of Camelot, judging by the smile on his face when they kiss at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]''.
%%* TokenMinority
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Percival]]
!!Percival
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/percival_7190.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/TomHopper
[-"Your enemies are my enemies."-]
%%* ActionHero
* AdaptationalBadass: In the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
%%* {{Hunk}}
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
%%* MasterSwordsman
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
[[/folder]]
!!!Other
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
!!!'''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
----
* AdaptationalBadass: In the original legends he is the epitome of GoodIsDumb and IdiotHero; here, he is the strong, silent type and more than capable of holding his own.
%%* BadassCape:
* BadassNormal: Percival is a knight of Camelot and a skilled swordsman. Bordering on SuperStrength.
* BigBrotherInstinct: Was seen to be very gentle and caring towards Merlin in 4x02 when he carried him.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Lancelot.
* TheBigGuy: Percival is the tallest of the knights. Tom is also the tallest member of the Merlin cast.
%%* BruiserWithASoftCentr
* TheDiseaseThatShallNotBeNamed: Gaius offstage cures him of something that was NOT “palsy”. “I was being polite.”
* DogPileOfDoom: Though he throws it off pretty quickly.
* EleventhHourRanger: He turns up in the last episode of series 3 and throws his lot in with Arthur.
%%* EmotionalBruiser
* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Bradley James has freely admitted to having a man-crush on Tom Hopper.
* FriendToAllChildren: His EstablishingCharacterMoment in the first episode of season 4 is to endanger his own life to save three frightened children by carrying them all to safety in his arms.
%%* GentleGiant
%%* HeroesPreferSwords
* HeterosexualLifePartners: He's often seen with Gwaine, the two implied to have become close friends.
%%* {{Hunk}}
%%* KnightInShiningArmour
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: He's introduced in the last episode of series 3, and made a regular for the rest of the show's duration.
%%* MasterSwordsman
* OneHeadTaller: He towers over the rest of the characters.
%%* OnlyOneName
* PietaPlagiarism: In 4x02 he carries Merlin in this manner.
* ShirtlessScene: He finally gets [[WalkingShirtlessScene an extended one]] in 5x01 and 5x02.
* SleevesAreForWimps: As seen above, most of the time his armour is sleeveless, the better to show off Tom Hopper's rather extraordinary biceps.
* TheQuietOne: Rarely says more than he needs to. For example, when Arthur is asking the other knights to join him in [[spoiler: retaking Camelot]], Percival's simple response? "My enemies are your enemies."
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: A mild one, since it's the last episode, but Percival is last seen tracking Arthur and Merlin. He's back at [[spoiler: Gwen's coronation, though]].
[[/folder]]
!!!Other
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
!!!'''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
----
[[folder:Geoffrey of Monmouth]]
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Cronin
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
----
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
[[/folder]]
!!Geoffrey
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Cronin
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
----
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
[[/folder]]
Deleted line(s) 616,675 (click to see context) :
! Lord Agravaine de Bois (Creator/NathanielParker)
[[quoteright:199:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Agravaineblackclothes_pic_9130_9699.jpg]]
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems."-]
Arthur's uncle on his mother's side, Agravaine has been helping his nephew run the kingdom during Uther's sickness. It soon becomes clear that he's not a man to be trusted. He appears only in the fourth series.
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer of courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to have a thing for Morgana. She couldn't care less.
* ArcVillain: Agravaine has a huge influence in season four due to being the uncle of Arthur. He's pretty much one of the main villains alongside Morgana throughout season four.
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that he isn't betraying him. (He is).
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and goes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and Guinevere.
* DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in Morgana's case.
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been led to expect.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during his run. Even [[spoiler:his death scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
[[quoteright:199:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Agravaineblackclothes_pic_9130_9699.jpg]]
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems."-]
Arthur's uncle on his mother's side, Agravaine has been helping his nephew run the kingdom during Uther's sickness. It soon becomes clear that he's not a man to be trusted. He appears only in the fourth series.
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer of courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to have a thing for Morgana. She couldn't care less.
* ArcVillain: Agravaine has a huge influence in season four due to being the uncle of Arthur. He's pretty much one of the main villains alongside Morgana throughout season four.
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that he isn't betraying him. (He is).
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and goes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and Guinevere.
* DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in Morgana's case.
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been led to expect.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during his run. Even [[spoiler:his death scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
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! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
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!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
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[[folder:Other Villains]]
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
to:
! Mary
[[folder:Will]]
!!Will
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JoeDempsie)
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
----
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Alice]]
!!Alice
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Pauline Collins
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
----
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Gilli]]
!!Gilli
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Harry Melling
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
----
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Alator]]
!!Alator
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Gary Lewis
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
----
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Tristan and Isolde]]
!!Tristan and Isolde
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
----
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
[[/folder]]
!!Other Villains
[[folder:Mary Collins]]
!!Mary Collins
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/EveMyles
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----
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! Valiant (Will Mellor)
to:
[[folder:Valiant]]
!!Valiant
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!!!'''Played By:''' Will Mellor
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----
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! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
to:
[[folder:Edwin Muirden]]
!!Edwin Muirden
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!!!'''Played By:''' Julian Rhind-Tutt
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----
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! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
to:
[[folder:Sophia]]
!!Sophia
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/HollidayGrainger
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----
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! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
to:
[[folder:Aulfic]]
!!Aulfric
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!!!'''Played By:''' Kenneth Cranham
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----
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! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
to:
[[folder:Sidhe Elder]]
!!Sidhe Elder
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!!!'''Played By:''' Michael Jenn
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----
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! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
to:
[[folder:Tristan de
!!Tristan de Bois
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!!!'''Played By:''' Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank
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----
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! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
to:
[[folder:Catrina]]
!!Catrina
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!!!'''Played By:''' Sarah Parish
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----
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! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
to:
[[folder:Aredian]]
!!Aredian
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/CharlesDance
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----
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! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
to:
[[folder:Alvarr]]
!!Alvarr
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JosephMawle
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----
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! The Knights of Medhir
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[[folder:The Knights of
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! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
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[[folder:Julius Borden]]
!!Julius Borden
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!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/JamesCallis
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! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
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[[folder:Lamia]]
!!Lamia
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!!!'''Played By:''' Charlenne [=McKenna=])
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! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
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[[folder:Lancelot du
!!Lancelot du Lac
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! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
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[[folder:Ruadan]]
!!Ruadan
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! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
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[[folder:Kara]]
!!Kara
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! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
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[[folder:Eira]]
!!Eira
!!!'''Played By:''' Creator/ErinRichards
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[[folder:Other Allies]]
! Will (Creator/JoeDempsie)
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
! Alator (Gary Lewis)
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
[[/folder]]
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[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 1]]
!The Great Dragon: Kilgharrah (Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
* AndroclesLion: {{Inverted}} - he befriends Merlin and guides him.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason to despise Uther.
* BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to Merlin's rescue in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'', then again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]''.]]
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week. When Mordred showed up around episode 8, he became a more darker and complex character.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
!The Great Dragon: Kilgharrah (Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bigger_dragon_9908.jpg]]
The last of the dragons who was captured during the time of the Great Purge and imprisoned in the dungeons under Camelot as an example of Uther's victory over magic. With an extensive knowledge of future events, the dragon introduces Merlin to his destiny and provides guidance over the course of his life.
* AndroclesLion: {{Inverted}} - he befriends Merlin and guides him.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason to despise Uther.
* BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only one talking dragon to draw references from, this could have been a normal big brother relationship among dragons.
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to Merlin's rescue in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'', then again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]''.]]
* BreathWeapon: He shoots fire from his mouth, mostly as a defence weapon.
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles to defeat the monster of the week. When Mordred showed up around episode 8, he became a more darker and complex character.
* DemotedToExtra: In Series 5. [[spoiler: With good reason, as he is dying of old age.]]
* EccentricMentor: For the first few episodes he would always talk to Merlin in riddles.
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.]]
%%* ManipulativeBastard
* [[EvilMentor Morally Ambiguous Mentor]]: Often counsels Merlin to ShootTheDog. Also see TreacherousAdvisor.
* MrExposition: Shares this trope with Gaius
* NoNameGiven: For the first two series at least. In the last episode of series 2, he was identified as "Kilgharrah" for the first time.
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his pieces of advice to Merlin have severely adverse consequences - including causing the FaceHeelTurn of both Morgana and Mordred.
to:
!The Great Dragon: Kilgharrah (Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right
!!!Knights
[[folder:Lancelot]]
!!Lancelot
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
-> '''Played By:''' SantiagoCabrera
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or
The last of the dragons
* AndroclesLion: {{Inverted}} - he befriends Merlin and guides him.
* AntiVillain: Until his HeelFaceTurn, as he has ''very'' good reason to despise Uther.
* BecauseDestinySaysSo: Practically his motto.
* BigBad: The final episode of series two.
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the cave until he's fully recovered, and allows him to ride him despite the fact that the series 3 finale shows he detests being used as a horse. He still occasionally treats him like an idiot, but given that we have only
* BigDamnHeroes: [[spoiler:Comes to
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* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
*
* CharacterizationMarchesOn: He started out as rather flat character giving Merlin cryptic hints in riddles
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more
*
*
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free
* KarmaHoudini: He was never really punished for his rampage on Camelot: merely banished on pain of death by Merlin.
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to the hatching of Aithusa.
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
*
*
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll,
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* OurDragonsAreDifferent: Can talk perform magic, have incredibly long life spans and be controlled by Dragonlords.
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's about to die of old age when the series end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/nimueh_7083.jpg]]
The sorceress who cast the spell that allowed Uther and Ygraine to conceive Arthur. After Ygraine died in childbirth as per the conditions of the magic, it served as a catalyst for Uther's hatred of magic and the massacre that followed. Throughout the first season, Nimueh works against Uther from a distance in order to undermine his rule. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it is the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed by magic or magical weapons.
!Lancelot (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to have seen civilizations rise and fall. [[spoiler: Although he's about to die of old age when the series end.]]
* RoaringRampageOfRevenge: His attack on Camelot. Uther slaughtered his entire kind, and in response he attempts to raze the city to the ground, leaving Uther untouched as his subjects die. Well, it's the exact same thing that Uther did to him, but he was still killing innocents.
* SapientSteed: Whenever Merlin hitches a ride.
* SecretlyDying: [[spoiler: Although the secret's out in The Kindness of Strangers.]]
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Mixed with UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom. Some of his prophecies have a distinct flavour of this - it's debatable whether Mordred or Morgana would have gone as bad as they did if he hadn't created or fuelled Merlin's mistrust.
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in nature, personal problems not so much. Justified in that he's at least a thousand years old.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and then attacking Camelot after he was freed.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his morally questionable decisions.
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to divulge a spell to heal Morgana by using his Dragonlord powers, considering it a serious breach of trust.
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he tries to prevent Merlin from saving Mordred, when Mordred was a little kid and still ''very'' innocent.
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is your turn."-]
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/nimueh_7083.jpg]]
The sorceress who cast the spell that allowed Uther and Ygraine to conceive Arthur. After Ygraine died in childbirth as per the conditions of the magic, it served as a catalyst for Uther's hatred of magic and the massacre that followed. Throughout the first season, Nimueh works against Uther from a distance in order to undermine his rule. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and let them know just how powerful she truly is.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the present, though the end of the first series implies that, at least by this point, she has absolute control.
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to take her revenge on Uther.
* BigBad: In Season 1.
* BlackMagic: Seemed to practice dark magic the most.
* BreakoutVillain: She was only suppose to be a one-shot villain but the production team like the character enough to give her a bigger role.
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is rather manipulative and cunning in nature, best demonstrated when she attempts to destroy two warring kingdoms' chances at a peaceful treaty while simultaneously giving Merlin a fatal dose of poison.
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second fireball. Round 2, when he taps into his full strength, is even more one-sided, but in the other direction.
* DealWithTheDevil: Merlin makes a deal with her in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to Uther's court before Arthur and Merlin were born. Twenty years later, she looks more or less the same age that Merlin does, enough to flirt with him while undercover as a servant. Whether this is achieved via illusions or the semi-immortality of the High Priestesses of the Old Religion is unknown - either way, Gaius isn't particularly surprised at her appearance.
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his life in exchange for Merlin's.
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to her successors.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: {{Inverted}} in the ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]'', in that it is the ''chalice'' that is poisoned, not the drink.
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin can't seem like much of a threat. But she decided that, rather than avoid angering Merlin by choosing a victim he would not know, she would go for his mother which she knows is a BerserkButton of his. And then she lures him to the Isle of the Blessed for a face-off. And when he gets up unscathed from a ''fireball to the chest'', she just smirks at him patronizingly. The worst part? Unlike most villains, she actually knew she was fighting the greatest wizard of all time, and it doesn't even occur to her that this might be a really bad idea - though, granted, she ''had'' just effortlessly curbstomped him. Merlin proceeds to show the audience just why this was a bad idea: by exploding her with lightning in what some fans consider the best [[Awesome/{{Merlin|2008}} Crowning Moment of Awesome]] in the entire show.
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
* WaterSourceTampering: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' to create a MysticalPlague.
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
* VainSorceress: Quite possibly, since she's very young looking considering she's roughly Uther's age. That, or it's just another oddity surrounding the High Priestesses of the Old Religion, who can only be killed by magic or magical weapons.
!Lancelot (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/lancelot_729.jpg]]
[-"I would die for you one hundred times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been for nothing."-]
A commoner who desires to become a knight of Camelot. He shares a brief romance with Gwen and becomes one of Merlin's long-term [[SecretKeeper Secret Keepers]]. He appeared in the first, second, third and fourth series.
* ActionHero: He's the most skilled of the knights, and the most textbook example of this bar Arthur himself.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: For Guinevere. He stepped aside when he saw the love beteween her and Arthur.
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three. [[spoiler: And then he died at the start of series four]].
* BadassCape: Standard red for the Knights of Camelot.
* BadassNormal: Even more than Arthur, standing up to magical enemies with just his sword.
* BackFromTheDead: [[spoiler: In season four by Morgana. Although, Lancelot came back as a shade.]]
%%zce* BettyAndVeronica: To Arthur's [[BettyAndVeronica Veronica]].
* BigBrotherInstinct: Towards Merlin. Lancelot is seen to be highly protective of him.
* BigBrotherMentor: To Merlin.
* BigDamnHeroes: With Percival.
* BodyguardCrush: With Gwen. But this pertains more to the original Arthurian legend although it can also apply to the series.
* [[spoiler:CameBackWrong]]: [[spoiler:Deliberately so on Morgana's part.]]
* CatchPhrase: In the three episodes named after him he utters the phrase: "My name is Lancelot". In all three cases, it's his first line of the episode.
* ConflictingLoyalty: Always between what he wants and what he thinks he deserves. In his first appearance it was between becoming a knight of Camelot and staying true to his ideals by not taking credit for something Merlin achieved; in later episodes it exists between his fealty to Arthur and his desire for Guinevere.
* DidNotGetTheGirl: Guinevere. He accepted it.
* [[spoiler:DyingAsYourself: When he dies the second time, he thanks Merlin for freeing him from Morgana's spell.]]
* EverythingButTheGirl
* [[spoiler:EvilCostumeSwitch]]: When he [[spoiler:comes BackFromTheDead as Morgana's UnwittingPawn, he's dressed in black. It's a wonder the good guys didn't notice...]]
* {{Expy}}: Of [[Series/{{Smallville}} Oliver Queen]].
* FailedASpotCheck: He did ''not'', which is the reason he is aware of Merlin’s magic. He clearly overheard Merlin’s incantation that helped him kill the Griffin. Worthy of noticing that he has been the ''only'' character to come to this logical conclusion.
* TheFettered: Lancelot is such a gentleman and so noble.
* {{Foil}}: To Arthur. He adheres to the same knightly code of honour but is unfailingly nice and polite as opposed to Arthur's temper tantrums (especially early on in the series). And he's the accessible with open admiration suitor to Gwen in contrast to Arthur's UptownGirl and hot-cold attitude.
* GoodIsNotDumb: Lancelot distinguishes himself as the sole knight in Camelot observant enough to notice Merlin's magic.
* HeroesPreferSwords: As a very skilled knight.
* [[spoiler: HeroicSacrifice]]: Took Merlin's place to [[spoiler: close the door to the spirit world]].
%%* HeroicSelfDeprecation
* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Merlin. It helps that they both think the world of each other.
* HonourBeforeReason: Rejects the offer of becoming a real knight of Camelot in favour of first being true to himself.
%%* HumbleHero
%%* {{Hunk}}
* IncorruptiblePurePureness: The kindest, nicest and most noble of all the knights.
* IGaveMyWord: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' he promises Gwen that he'll protect Arthur, no matter what. [[spoiler: He sacrifices himself to uphold the promise]].
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Leaves in Season 2 after realizing that Arthur is in love with Gwen, and he doesn't want to come in between them.
** And again in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E01TheDarkestHourPartI}} The Darkest Hour]]'' in which he [[spoiler:sacrifices himself]] to preserve the Arthur/Gwen relationship.
* KilledOffForReal: The writers have confirmed that his story arc is finished, and he won't return to life again.
* KnightErrant: After he leaves Camelot.
* KnightInShiningArmour: He's the best of the knights in both skill and nobility.
* LadyAndKnight: With Gwen.
* LongingLook: His expression of choice whenever in the vicinity of Guinevere.
* MasterSwordsman: He's better than Arthur, which takes some doing.
%%* MrFanservice
* MuggleBestFriend: To Merlin. He was also the first person outside of Gauis that discovered Merlin's magic.
* NiceGuy: Is he ever. Perhaps the nicest, kindest and noblest person in the entire series. Even Kilgharrah mentions this to Lancelot.
%%* OnlyOneName
Deleted line(s) 170,264 (click to see context) :
!Mordred (Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos)
[-"My name is Mordred."-]
[[quoteright:229:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Senza_titolo-3_7351.jpg]]
Mordred is a young Druid boy who Morgana grows instantly attached to. According to the Great Dragon, Mordred will one day kill Arthur. Merlin's desire to help Mordred becomes heavily strained because of this. Also, another prophecy states that [[spoiler:Mordred and Morgana will be united in evil]]. He appears in the first, second and fifth series.
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
* BecauseYouWereNiceToMe: This is most likely the cause of Mordred's loyalty towards Morgana.
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon bluntly told Merlin to leave him to his death. Later Merlin himself adopts the belief that Mordred will be up to no good, which ends up driving him to evil.
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
* {{Evil Costume Switch}}: Like when Lancelot comes back as a shade and wears all black. When Mordred runs away from Camelot and join Morgana his costume changes to a darker colour scheme. At Wales Comic Con in 2017 Alexander Vlahos, Rupert Young, and Tom Hopper joked about Mordred going into the dark chain mail store on his way to Morgana.
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur in hope to find acceptance]]. [[spoiler: Their love interests die by Arthur's hand]]. Merlin forgives Arthur for failing to live up to expectation. Mordred does not.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: He will someday kill Arthur.
** Right now there is a proper vision of him killing/wounding Arthur.
* FreudianExcuse: Mordred's storyline starts with him seriously injured by Camelot's guards and his father executed by Uther; then he is imprisoned and sentenced to death. He returned to his people only to have his mentor killed, his village destroyed by Arthur and he's forced to leave Morgana to save himself. After that he's openly hostile to the Pendragons, plus his caretaker is [[ManipulativeBastard Alvarr]]; then Merlin, someone he considers sort of an ally, sides with Camelot instead. Three episodes, and he already has a hell of a FreudianExcuse for the day he will be the BigBad.
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's orders]].
* FromNobodyToNightmare: In his first appearance he was just a helpless kid. With each subsequent episode he displays considerably more power, until he returns as an adult, and is one of the few villains who not only unnerves Merlin, but genuinely terrifies him.
* FutureBadass: Mordred goes from a small, unknown Druid boy from a small village, to a knight of Camelot under King Arthur's rule. [[spoiler: Not only that, but in the future, he is the ultimate demise of King Arthur.]]
* GlassShatteringSound: Mordred's screaming is so powerful that it has literally broken and shattered a glass mirror.
* HeartwarmingOrphan: {{Subverted}}. He did have traces of it at the start, but at the same time he was ''also'' a CreepyChild from Day One.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to kill Arthur, his loyalties are hard to determine, especially when he [[spoiler:turns on Morgana and stabs her InTheBack, saving Arthur's life in the process.]]
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
* HiddenAgendaVillain: No one is quite sure what he's up to (if anything), least of all Merlin.
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin as "Emrys"; in fact, he's the first person in the show to mention that name to Merlin.
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
* InnocentBlueEyes: When he first appears.
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from a [[TheWoobie scared little boy]] to a [[EnfanteTerrible vindictive kid]].
* KickTheSonOfABitch: Whenever Mordred kills knights. It's sociopathic and TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour, especially for a kid that was raised by pacifists, but the people he was killing were intent on either killing a boy who was, from their perspective, a defenceless child, or dragging him off to Uther, who has [[WouldHurtAChild had children drowned in the past.]]
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
* [[LittleMissBadass Little Mister Badass]]: As demonstrated when he kicked the asses of a bunch of Camelot's guards with his magic in 2x03 and 2x11.
* MageSpecies: Mordred is a Druid with magical abilities.
%%* MagicIsEvil
* MagicKnight: In 5x01, we see a prophetic vision of Mordred on the battlefield, wearing chainmail and wielding a {{BFS}}.
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the former case and [[spoiler: breaks the prison door]] in the latter.
* MirrorCharacter: To a lesser extent than Morgana, to Merlin himself. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people.
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to Morgana in season five, as the single character she hesitates before attacking and forgives for betraying her.
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
* MysteriousPast: Particularly in the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]]. How'd he go from Iseldir's care to Aglaine's care to Alvarr's care to working with bandits?
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and have to hide their talents to non-magical people. Lampshaded by Mordred himself.
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
* ParentalAbandonment: His father died and his mother was [[MissingMom never mentioned in the first place]].
* ParentalSubstitute: Not very lucky with them: the first one was killed by Camelot's knights and the second was a ManipulativeBastard who wants to use him and Morgana to bring Uther down.
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in Season 3 and 4 because of scheduled filming conflicts. He ran off into the forest at the end of season two and isn't seen until season 5.
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
* SchiffOneLiner[=/=]WhamLine: 1x08 when he reveals his identity -- the above quote.
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he only defected to Morgana in the end because Merlin's inability to trust him drove him to turn against Camelot as a whole]].
* SonicScream: His most distinctive attack as a child, using it against the knights attacking him.
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is forced to kill some soldiers in self-defence, but shows absolutely no remorse.
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
* {{Telepathy}}: Has contacted several characters -- including Merlin and Morgana -- with his thoughts.
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and warning Merlin telepathically that he will not forgive Merlin nor will he forget this betrayal. Averted when it looks like he did forgive him eventually though: some things he said seems to imply that Mordred considers his old attitude a result of being a child, not fully understanding what was going on and all the implications.
** Harming his beloved is an entirely different thing. To be more specific [[spoiler: his lover is sentenced to death for (repeated) murder of Camelot's guards and attempted regicide.]]
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with a SonicScream - even worse is the kid's reaction - he looks around at the bodies with a small smile and casually runs away.
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in 1x08, where Morgana start to wonder if he's too afraid to speak or he can't. In later episodes Mordred is more verbal, but still seems to prefer telepathy over voice.
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an adult, Merlin (and some of his allies) distrust him because of the prophesy, resulting in him being left for dead on several occasions. While this frustrates him, it doesn't break him to turn into a villain until...(see this is unforgivable).
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana in the back, joins the knights, shows kindness to the prisoners, doesn't use his magic, and doesn't reveal Merlin's identity to either Arthur or Morgana.]] The show's been doing a very good job not letting us know if he's heel or face until [[spoiler: his FaceHeelTurn in 2x11.]]
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from Morgana. One gets the sense that he [[spoiler:chose Arthur]] not just because [[IOweYouMyLife I Owe Him My Life]] but because he doesn't fully trust the only other two magic users on the show.
Changed line(s) 267,270 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 2]]
!Sir Leon (Rupert Young)
!Sir Leon (Rupert Young)
to:
!Sir Leon (Rupert Young)
!!Leon
Changed line(s) 272 (click to see context) from:
to:
-> ''Played By:''' Rupert Young
Changed line(s) 274 (click to see context) from:
to:
----
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!Morgause (Creator/EmiliaFox)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/morgause_9619.jpg]]
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The battle for your soul is about to begin."-]
A mysterious sorceress who has a connection to Morgana, Morgause desires the doom of Uther and Camelot. She appears in the second, third and fourth series.
* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's one of only four villains in the series to be more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeuh, Cornealius Sigan and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of caressing Morgana's face. Morgana doesn't seem to mind. At all.
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall."
* TheBaroness: The Rosa Klebb type.
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was only going to be around for a couple of episodes until the writers released how important she was to Morgana's StoryArc.
* ChainmailBikini: Averted. She gears up for combat appropriately.
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in her lair, like Nimue.
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* DarkActionGirl: A formidable fighter, military and political strategist and powerful magic-user, who is portrayed as an antagonist and doesn't care if innocent people are killed in the pursuit of her goals.
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to the land, to the point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
* GirlyBruiser: Morgause is reasonably feminine and she can kick some major ass.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
* HotWitch: Is played by the very good-looking Emilia Fox and is depicted as very attractive to most people who meet her. Katie [=McGrath=] on the audio commentary remarks on Emilia's attractiveness.
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for the people who get in the way of her revenge.
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a full-scale war on Camelot.
!Freya (Laura Donnelly)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/freya_5160.jpg]]
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
Freya is a young Druid woman with a dark secret who Merlin protects from captivity. They develop a strong bond in the process. Freya becomes Merlin's first love. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E09TheLadyOfTheLake}} The Lady of the Lake]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E13TheComingOfArthurPartII}} The Coming of Arthur Part II]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} The Diamond of the Day Part II]].'' [[note]]Or at least her arm does[[/note]]
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him in the trunk of a tree. Here, she helps save Camelot by advising Merlin and giving him Excalibur.
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
* BeautyToBeast: Played straight due to her being cursed. When Freya transforms into the Bastet monster, she goes from being a fragile, beautiful girl to a huge, flying, and unattractive beast.
* BirdsOfAFeather: Merlin is able to develop such a strong bond with newcomer Freya because of the fact that they are both born of magic and must keep it a secret. In the process, they fall in love.
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his chance at a good life in Camelot.
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the Brooding Girl to Merlin's Gentle Boy. Merlin manages to make brooding, isolated and cursed Freya feel happy and loved.
* CannotSpitItOut: Freya has a hard time expressing how she's feeling about everything basically.
* ChekhovsGunman: She [[spoiler:returns at the end of Season 3 in order to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands so that he can defeat the immortal army.]]
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Freya was attacked and almost raped by a man and she killed him in self defence. After the man's mother, who was a sorceress found out what Freya had done to her son, she cursed Freya to become the Bastet so that she was cursed to kill forever against her will.
* DarkSecret: Freya is cursed and is a Bastet, which is a winged panther.
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
* DisproportionateRetribution: Perhaps. Freya turns into a Bastet because she killed a man in self-defence and was subsequently cursed by his vengeful mother. That's Freya's version of events, and there's no in-show reason to disbelieve her.
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
* TheDulcineaEffect: Merlin is immediately besotted by her, helps her at considerable personal risk to himself, and even decides to run away from Camelot with her before disaster strikes.
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
* EmotionlessGirl: Freya appears this way at first, but it turns out the reason for this is because Freya is hiding a deep, dark secret.
* EnigmaticEmpoweringEntity: In her second appearance. Freya becomes the Lady of The Lake and returns as a spirit to deliver Excalibur into Merlin's hands.
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her and choose her over his destiny.
* GiantFlyer: In her winged panther form.
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his journey and his quests by retrieving Excalibur for Merlin whenever he or Arthur needs it.
* HiddenDepths: Freya appears as a regular girl but she actually suffered a lot of trauma due to her dark and troubled past. She is also cursed with being a Bastet.
%%* TheIngenue
* InvoluntaryShapeshifting: She transforms into a giant winged panther at the stroke of midnight.
* IAmAMonster: Freya thinks of herself as this.
* IJustWantToBeNormal: Which is understandable considering that she had her free will and her humanity taken away from her against her will.
* IJustWantToHaveFriends: It was pretty obvious that Freya was lonely and yearned for love and friendship. Merlin gave that to her.
* KillTheCutie: She's nice, sweet, and gentle. Guess what happens?
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
* TheLostLenore: She's this for Merlin.
* LoveAtFirstSight: With Merlin.
* LoveInterest: For Merlin. Turns out that Freya is [[SingleTargetSexuality the first and last girl that Merlin was ever in love with for the entire series.]] Since Freya died, Merlin hasn't shown that much romantic interest in another girl. Heartbreaking.
%%* LoveHurts
* LoveRedeems: She's not ''evil'', but Freya says that Merlin's love for her saved her in more than one way.
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with Merlin.
* MeaningfulName: Even though "Freya" isn´t one of the names given to the Lady of the Lake in the Arthurian legend, her name is Old Norse for "Lady", and alludes to Freyja, a goddess associated with love who rules over the fields of Fólkvangr, [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon ''where half of those that die in battle go upon death]].''
* MixAndMatchCritter: Freya in her Bastet form has a panther's body and bat wings.
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is known about her background.
* OneShotCharacter: With the exception of a cameo in Season 3.
* TheOneThatGotAway: She represents this for Merlin.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
* PantheraAwesome: The Bastet form.
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a slave.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who knew about Merlin's magic and secret identity.
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one episode
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the Lake.
Changed line(s) 438,469 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 3]]
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
!Gwaine (Creator/EoinMacken)
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
!Gwaine (Creator/EoinMacken)
to:
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Cenred-merlin-on-bbc-16891208-1600-12001211_2858.jpg]]
The ruler of the rivaling kingdom of Cenred (named after himself), Cenred seeks the downfall of Uther and Camelot by becoming an accomplice of Morgause's. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E07TheCastleOfFyrien}} The Castle of Fyrien]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E12TheComingOfArthurPartI}} The Coming of Arthur Part I]]''.
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
* EarlyBirdCameo: Was first mentioned in ''1x10''.
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He refuses to let his army die and withdraws the battle against Camelot once he realizes they can't win.
%%* KilledOffForReal
* OhCrap: When he realizes[[spoiler: Morgause is going to kill him]], and there's nothing he can do about it.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's in a DeletedScene for ''The Castle of Fyrien'' and occurs off-screen).
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
!Gwaine (Creator/EoinMacken)
!Gwaine
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-> '''Played By:''' Creator/EoinMacken
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----
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!Elyan (Adetomiwa Edun)
to:
[[folder:Elyan]]
!!Elyan
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-> '''Played By:''' Adetomiwa Edun
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!Percival (Creator/TomHopper)
to:
[[folder:Percival]]
!!Percival
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-> '''Played By:''' Creator/TomHopper
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----
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[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 4]]
! Lord Agravaine de Bois (Creator/NathanielParker)
[[quoteright:199:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Agravaineblackclothes_pic_9130_9699.jpg]]
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems."-]
Arthur's uncle on his mother's side, Agravaine has been helping his nephew run the kingdom during Uther's sickness. It soon becomes clear that he's not a man to be trusted. He appears only in the fourth series.
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer of courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to have a thing for Morgana. She couldn't care less.
* ArcVillain: Agravaine has a huge influence in season four due to being the uncle of Arthur. He's pretty much one of the main villains alongside Morgana throughout season four.
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that he isn't betraying him. (He is).
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and goes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and Guinevere.
* DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in Morgana's case.
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been led to expect.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during his run. Even [[spoiler:his death scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
! The White Dragon: Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this into some doubt. He appears in the fourth and fifth series.
* AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer to the dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
* BreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as a defence weapon.
* CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
! Lord Agravaine de Bois (Creator/NathanielParker)
[[quoteright:199:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Agravaineblackclothes_pic_9130_9699.jpg]]
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems."-]
Arthur's uncle on his mother's side, Agravaine has been helping his nephew run the kingdom during Uther's sickness. It soon becomes clear that he's not a man to be trusted. He appears only in the fourth series.
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer of courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to have a thing for Morgana. She couldn't care less.
* ArcVillain: Agravaine has a huge influence in season four due to being the uncle of Arthur. He's pretty much one of the main villains alongside Morgana throughout season four.
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played ''very'' straight.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that he isn't betraying him. (He is).
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and goes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and Guinevere.
* DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in Morgana's case.
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been led to expect.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she holds him in utter contempt.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during his run. Even [[spoiler:his death scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
! The White Dragon: Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this into some doubt. He appears in the fourth and fifth series.
* AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer to the dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
* BreathWeapon: Aithusa shoots fire from his/her mouth as a defence weapon.
* CharacterTitle: The episode in which he first appears is named after him.
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin and an inability to speak seem to indicate he's not all there.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his prison. According to his captor, his screams were even ''worse'' than Morgana's.]]
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
to:
! Lord Agravaine de Bois (Creator/NathanielParker)
[[quoteright:199:https://static.
[[folder:The Great Dragon]]
!!Kilgharrah
[[quoteright:256:https://static.tvtropes.
[-'''Gaius''': "I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems.
-> '''Voiced By:''' Creator/JohnHurt)
[-"There is no right or wrong. Only what is and what isn't."-]
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer
----
*
*
* AristocratsAreEvil: Played
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends
*
*
* BigBrotherInstinct: To Merlin. Kilgharrah's treatment of Merlin in Series 2 is best described as a come and go fondness. In Series 3, after becoming spiritual brothers, Kilgharrah burns up Serkets trying to kill Merlin, doesn't want him to leave the
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that he isn't betraying him. (He is).
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court
* DirtyOldMan: Seems
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous
*
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths:
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more capable that Morgana as a manipulator and user of XanatosSpeedChess. In fact, if it where not for devotion towards Morgana, he would be a much better villain.
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the bloopers.
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode 3, he's written out permanently at the end of that same season without really doing anything particularly memorable or important during his run. Even [[spoiler:his death scene is all about Merlin]].
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
* ThickerThanWater: Arthur's reason for trusting him so implicitly.
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of FacelessMooks.
* XanatosSpeedChess: Especially throughout 4x6.
! The White Dragon: Aithusa
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/big_dragon_3903.jpg]]
[-"The white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land you will build together."-]
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this into some doubt. He appears in the fourth and fifth series.
* AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer to the dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
*
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the very last scene of series four in order to save Morgana's life.
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the beginning.
* DiabolusExNihilo: In the series four finale.
* EggMacGuffin: When he's introduced as an egg.
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin
*
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot
* FigureItOutYourself: In the first few episodes of Series One, when Merlin came to him for help, the Dragon would often tell the answer in a riddle, that Merlin would have to figure out.
%%* GiantFlyer
* HeelFaceTurn: When Merlin spares him despite his rampage on Camelot, the Dragon becomes a nicer though still cynical person.
* ItHasBeenAnHonour: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E02TheDarkestHourPartII}} The Darkest Hour Part II]]'' this is his reaction to Merlin stating that he’s going to sacrifice himself to seal off the spirit world. You can clearly hear the fondness and grief in his voice at the notion of Merlin dying, but it’s also obvious that Kilgharrah is incredibly proud of Merlin’s conviction and good nature.
* ItsAllAboutMe: Originally his main motivation for helping Merlin was so that he would be free from his imprisonment. Later he developed a genuine fondness for the warlock.
* KarmaHoudini: He was
* LastOfHisKind: [[spoiler:Not anymore due to
%%* ManipulativeBastard
*
* MrExposition: Shares this
*
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent
* NotSoOmniscientAfterAll: Remember all his prophecies about how Arthur would legalize magic and unite Albion and rule over the Golden Age, with the white dragon Aithusa as a symbol of the world that he and Merlin would build together? [[spoiler:Never happened]].
* OmniscientMoralityLicence: He's advised/ordered Merlin to do some ''incredibly'' dodgy stuff, including letting a child die and killing a terrified woman. Given that he's NotSoOmniscientAfterAll, this is not entirely a surprise; more than a few of his
* MoralityPet: For
Changed line(s) 694,730 (click to see context) from:
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
! Helios (Terence Maynard)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6400530697_b802a70d97_o-1_1768.jpg]]
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in her crusade against Camelot and whose army attacks it at the end of series four. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* AffablyEvil: He can demonstrate manners and decorum when he feels like it.
* BadassNormal: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
* BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn before dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
! Helios (Terence Maynard)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6400530697_b802a70d97_o-1_1768.jpg]]
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in her crusade against Camelot and whose army attacks it at the end of series four. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* AffablyEvil: He can demonstrate manners and decorum when he feels like it.
* BadassNormal: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
* BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe: [[spoiler: Gets killed by Isolde, but uses his last energy to kill her in turn before dying.]]
* TheSavageSouth: His mercenaries are referred to as "Southrons".
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
to:
* Really700YearsOld: He's at least a thousand years old, and claims to
*
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt
*
! Helios (Terence Maynard)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6400530697_b802a70d97_o-1_1768.jpg]]
[-"Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat."-]
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in her crusade against Camelot and whose army attacks it at the end of series four. He appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
*
* BadassNormal: He's a MasterSwordsman who defeats ''Arthur'' in a one-on-one duel. There's only a few other characters in the entire ''series'' who could claim that honour.
* BaldOfAuthority: He's a warlord who fulfils every aspect of this trope.
* BarbarianTribe: {{Subverted}}. When he wants to, he can be borderline WickedCultured.
* BatheHerAndBringHerToMe: Implied between Helios and Guinevere.
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the RapeIsASpecialKindOfEvil trope. Instead he seemed genuinely interested in her BackStory and lets her go without a fuss when she tells him that she's tired.
%%* EvilOverlord
* ItAmusedMe: Unlike Morgana's PsychoticSmirk or Agravine's SmugSmiler attitude when things are going their way, Helios' smiles and chuckles are more of genuine amusement. There are hints of him being a bit of a {{Troll}}.
%%* OnlyOneName
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Helios is an AffablyEvil version of this.
* TakingYouWithMe:
*
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to
* SeenItAll: There's very little he ''can't'' give Merlin a spell or solution for. As long as the threat or problem is magical in
* TreacherousAdvisor: Betrays Merlin twice, both by having him almost kill his mom, and
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: His prophecies sometimes have a self-fulfilling element to them, arguably causing/accelerating the falls of Morgana and Mordred to evil.
* WhatTheHellHero: Merlin calls him out on some of his
** In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E05TheCrystalCave}} The Crystal Cave]]'' he’s enraged at the fact that Merlin forces him to
* WouldHurtAChild: At least by omission: he
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
Changed line(s) 733,873 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Minor Characters]]
! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
to:
! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian,
[[folder:Characters Introduced in Season 1]]
!Nimueh (Michelle Ryan)
[-"I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son
* ArcVillain: In Series 1, where she would cook up various plans to get revenge of Uther.
* BadassBoast: She uses threats towards her opponents to scare them off and
* BalancingDeathsBooks: She mastered this decades before the show, and it's how she ensured Arthur was conceived - she warned Uther it would come at a price, and Uther confirms that she was telling the truth. However, as she also points out, she had no way of knowing that Ygraine would be the one to die or what Uther would do, for if she had, she'd never have gone through with. It's still not entirely clear how much control she has over who'll die in the
* ActionMom: She joins in
* BackForTheFinale: In
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants
* BestServedCold: She waits twenty years to
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When
*
*
*
* TheChessmaster: Nimueh is
* CurbstompBattle: Her 'duel' with Merlin is ridiculously one-sided - she {{No Sell}}s an energy blast, mocks him, then nails him with her second
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about
*
* DecoyDamsel: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* TheDreaded: Uther hates sorcerers with a passion - but he ''fears'' Nimueh. And with good reason, as it turns out.
* EvilSorceress: She's an exceptionally powerful one at that, curbstomping Merlin before he taps into the full depth of his powers.
%%zce* HighPriestess: Of the Old Religion.
* IceQueen: Nimueh is very icy, and doesn't show emotion most of the time - though she does in episode 9.
* InTheHood: In ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, [[ShockAndAwe in the most badass way ever.]]]]
* LadyOfBlackMagic: A very elegant witch.
* OlderThanTheyLook: She was a HighPriestess and adviser to
* PlayingWithFire: She throws a fireball in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]''.
* SeenItAll: Her response when Gaius comes to her to offer his
* StarterVillain: Quite powerful and gives Merlin quite a bit of grief but she's dispatched quite quickly compared to
*
* TooDumbToLive: Granted, Merlin
* UnknownRival: Though she is a formidable opponent, most of her evil plans are done from a distance, and Prince Arthur never discovers who she truly is after she pulls a DecoyDamsel on him. She interacts only once with King Uther (who would be her major foe) but then dies in the season finale without having any sort of confrontation with either Uther or Arthur. In fact, it's unclear whether they even know that she's dead.
*
* WeCanRuleTogether: She tries this with Merlin. It doesn't work.
* WeUsedToBeFriends: With Uther, believe it or not.
*
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether
* OjouRinglets: She has
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther
!Mordred (Creator/AsaButterfield & Creator/AlexanderVlahos)
[-"My name is
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son.
[[quoteright:229:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Senza_titolo-3_7351.jpg]]
Mordred is a young Druid boy who Morgana grows instantly attached to. According to the Great Dragon, Mordred will one day kill Arthur. Merlin's
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat:
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression,
* AmbiguouslyEvil: As a child. Later, he becomes more heroic, then falls into darkness.
* BadassCape: When Mordred became a knight.
*
** He also wants to save Arthur 'cause Arthur saved him when he was a child.
* BewareTheQuietOnes: When Mordred was a child, he didn't talk much, if ever. But he smashed a mirror with his powers when he was angry and upset over one of his kind being executed. That was a clear sign to not mess with this kid.
* BigBad: Eventually.
* BigBrotherWorship: Towards Arthur. Ironic, considering Mordred is his son in the legends.
** Considering that Mordred was originally just another foe of Arthur's in the earliest tellings (who was upgraded to major villain and Arthur's incestuous spawn in later tellings - ''Le Morte D'Arthur'' by Sir Thomas Mallory can probably be credited for this), one can argue that this is Mordred's character being brother full-circle.
* BrokenPedestal: All the time. He idolized Merlin, who's like the magic world's greatest rockstar, but who keeps trying to kill him for no reason. He has a special bond with Morgana, who was sweet and caring, and she became a vengeful woman driven by hate. He worships Arthur, and he [[spoiler:has his beloved hanged]]. He considers the knights friends, and they [[spoiler:let him down when he needed them the most]].
* TheBusCameBack: He's been recast for series five.
* ChildMage: He's about eight when he first turns up.
* ChildProdigy: He's a very powerful mage even as a child.
* ChildrenForcedToKill: In his second appearance - though he doesn't seem all that bothered by it.
* CreepyBlueEyes: His unblinking gray-blue eyes when he is a child can be quite unsettling.
* CreepyChild: As a child, he kills with a disquieting smirk.
* CuteBruiser: As a child, he was a Druid with great strength and power.
%%zce* CuteWitch: When he was a young child.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: His father was killed; he was injured and sentenced to death; he saw his [[DoomedHometown village destroyed]]; he was hunted down and forced to kill and after the TimeSkip he said he learned to keep a low profile to not be burned to the stake or sold out. Also, considering how clueless he is about the Old Religion, he probably didn't meet other sorcerers after leaving Alvarr.
* DeliberatelyCuteChild: Cultivates this impression.
* DesignatedVillain: ''[[invoked]]'' He is prophesied to be the one who will kill Arthur. When he was still a child and apparently did no harm, the Great Dragon
* TheDreaded: To Merlin, who believes that he'll one day kill Arthur. [[spoiler:Which he does, but only because the entire situation was a twisted SelfFulfillingProphecy.]]
%%zce* {{Druid}}
%%* EnfanteTerrible
*
* EvilSorcerer: A very young one.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin. They are both born having powerful magic with grand destinies. Both [[DesperatelyLookingForAPurposeInLife serve Arthur
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells
*
** Right now there is a proper vision of
*
* FunctionalMagic: Of
* HealingHands: He's able to heal
** And now [[spoiler:the girl he loved gets killed on Arthur's
*
*
*
*
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Though he's supposedly destined to
* KilledOffForReal: He dies
** [[spoiler:He has a FaceHeelTurn in 5x11]].
*
* IKnowYourTrueName: He constantly (but telepathically) refers to Merlin
* InTheHood: Often wore hoods both as a child and as an adult.
*
* InnocenceLost: Probably [[BecauseDestinySaysSo because destiny says so]]: he has to [[BigBad kill Arthur]], so a lot happens to make him change from
*
%%* [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]]
* KillerRabbit: As a child, he was cute, adorable but very creepy and dangerous.
*
*
%%* MagicIsEvil
*
* MakeMeWannaShout: When his father in Series 1 and [[spoiler: girlfriend]] in Series 5 are killed, his scream shatters a mirror in the
*
* MoralityPet: Serves as one to
* MySignificanceSenseIsTingling: He seems able to sense Merlin/Emrys' presence. He can also sense the deaths of his father and [[spoiler:girlfriend]].
*
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}[[TheDreaded dred]]
* NowLetMeCarryYou: Mordred is glad to take care of an injured Morgana, in thanks for her previously caring for him.
* NotSoDifferentRemark: To Merlin. Both were born having powerful magic and
--> '''Mordred''': We are not so different. You and I.
%%* OnlyOneName
* OracularUrchin: It would seem so, as Alvarr says Mordred is the only one powerful enough to use the Crystal of Neahtid. Considering even ''Merlin'' had trouble with it, this would suggest great power indeed.
*
*
* PsychicPowers: As a child he communicates almost exclusively through his psychic abilities. It adds to his eerie nature.
* PuppyDogEyes: Oddly, teen-Mordred seems a puppy who's trying to be loved much more than [[CreepyChild child-Mordred]].
* PutOnABus: Unfortunately, Asa Butterfield (Mordred) wasn't in
* ReformedButRejected: Seems the case with Merlin: since his returning Mordred hasn't done anything evil or wrong, [[spoiler:he actually saved Arthur life ''twice'', once almost dying in the process]], but Merlin doesn't trust him and basically wants him dead.
* RuleOfThree: Has appeared three times in the first two seasons.
** With the recasting he is in three seasons.
%%* TheRunaway
* ScarfOfAssKicking: And it's ''bigger than Merlin's''.
*
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in
* SelfFulfillingProphecy: Suggested in Season 5; [[spoiler:looking at how his storyline ended, it's not hard to argue that he
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance,
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given
*
* StartOfDarkness: In 2x03 Mordred is
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character
* TheTeamWannabe: Looks like Mordred really wants to be part of ''something'', and he's trying really hard to gain Merlin's trust and friendship.
*
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
!! Vivienne
* ThisIsUnforgivable:
** When Merlin attempts to prevent Mordred from escaping the Camelot knights in 2x11, Mordred ends up killing the knights and
** Harming his beloved is an
* TimeShiftedActor: Thanks to the [[TimeSkip Time Skips]] between seasons, it's been seven years since Mordred was last seen, thus allowing Alexander Vlahos to step in as an older version of the same character.
* TroublingUnchildlikeBehaviour: Merlin is shocked when he witnesses Mordred killing several knights with
* TheVoiceless: Played straight in
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little
* VillainBallMagnet: Despite his attempts to do good as an
* WildCard: Season 5. [[spoiler: Stabs Morgana
* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Or so it would seem.
* YouAreNotAlone: He tries this on Merlin ''and'' Morgana in 5x02, only to be cold-shouldered by Merlin and on the receiving end of a crazy rant from
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
Changed line(s) 876,1131 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Kings, Queens, Princesses, and Other Assorted Royals]]
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the crime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
!! King Alined (David Schofield)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
!! King Rodor (James Fox)
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the crime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
!! King Alined (David Schofield)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
!! King Rodor (James Fox)
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
to:
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
[[quoteright:169:https://static.
!Morgause (Creator/EmiliaFox)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits you. The
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon.
* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel.
* TheBusCameBack: In
* AffectionateGestureToTheHead: Is fond of
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It
* BadassBoast: "The tears of Uther Pendragon have
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
*
* BeautyIsBad: Very beautiful and very, very dangerous.
* BigBad: Of season three, after being built up some during season two.
* BigSisterInstinct[=/=]CoolBigSis: Towards Morgana. Seriously, what sister would [[spoiler:give you a kingdom to reign over?]]
* BreakoutVillain: She was
* FeudingFamilies: With
*
* TheChessmaster: Is shown repeatedly to be a master manipulator, examining her pawns through a crystal ball in
* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
*
* TheDeterminator: She won't rest until Uther and Camelot are overthrown and magic is returned to the land, to the point that she's willing to sacrifice her life to tear the veil between worlds. She passes her ruthless determination onto the decidedly less competent Morgana.
* EnemyMine: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EyeColourChange: When Morgause uses magic, her eyes become golden-coloured.
*
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
%%* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
%%* HeterosexualLifePartners: With Morgana.
%%* HighPriest: Of the Old Religion.
*
* KickTheDog: Putting a spell on Morgana to make her the vessel to summon the Knights of Medhir in order to destroy Camelot ''without'' telling Morgana probably wasn't Morgause's best idea in the world...
* KilledOffForReal: By ''Morgana'' in the series 4 premiere. It's a MercyKill, with Morgause's full consent.
* KnightTemplarBigSister: Morgause is ruthless toward her enemies, but if you threaten Morgana she'll make your death ''painful''.
* LackOfEmpathy: Morgause shows no guilt or remorse for
* LadyInRed: Wears a pretty slinky red dress at times.
%%* LadyOfBlackMagic: Well, duh!
* LongLostRelative: To Morgana, who doesn't know of her half-sisters existence until she turns up in Camelot and challenges Arthur to a duel.
* MagicKnight: She's a witch and also a very skilled swordswoman.
* MasterSwordsman: She can give Arthur a run for his money in a sword challenge or duel.
%%* MsFanservice
* NamesToRunAwayFromReallyFast: NamesToRunAwayFrom/{{Mor}}gause.
* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in
* OnlyOneName: We never find out her last name.
* PetTheDog: Morgause finds time to reunite with her half-sister Morgana while and give her a bracelet that would help her sleep. [[spoiler:And help her take over Camelot...]]
* RelatedDifferentlyInTheAdaptation: Morgause is still Morgana's sister, but they're maternal half-sisters rather than full sisters and Morgause has no biological connection to Arthur here (due to Morgana becoming Uther's daughter rather than Gorlois'). Upon learning her sister has a claim to the throne, Morgause plots to make Morgana queen to get rid of Uther and undo his BanOnMagic.
* RememberTheNewGuy: Partially justified in that she and Morgana were deliberately kept apart.
* TheReveal: She is Morgana's [[LongLostRelative half]]-[[SeparatedAtBirth sister]]. Though it's not totally clear through which parent they're related, popular FanWank is that they share a mother: Vivienne.
* SamusIsAGirl: Her badass debut.
* SupernaturalGoldEyes: When using magic.
* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:She ensures that her death furthers Morgana's cause]].
* UndyingLoyalty: To her half sister, Morgana.
* UnkemptBeauty: When fully armoured. Otherwise, she seems to take time to style her hair and also dress very nicely.
* TheVamp: She can be very seductive, especially if Morgana or Cenred are in the room, though it's just a manipulative ruse in the case of the latter.
* VillainsNeverLie: Everything she tells/shows Arthur about his mother is the truth, and it's ''Merlin'' that has to coax Arthur back into believing the lies surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
* WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is
!! King Alined (David Schofield)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.
!Freya (Laura Donnelly)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter.
[-"You already saved me. You made me feel loved."-]
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper:
* AdaptationalHeroism: In some depictions, the Lady of the Lake learns magic from Merlin and eventually traps him
%%* AloofDarkHairedGirl
* BackForTheFinale: Of series three and five.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: Although she was cursed, Freya was a kind and good-hearted individual.
*
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
*
%%* BoyMeetsGirl
* BreakHisHeartToSaveHim: Freya runs away so that Merlin doesn't lose his
%%* BreakTheCutie
%%* BrokenBird
* BroodingBoyGentleGirl: [[GenderInvertedTrope Gender-Inverted]]. Freya is the
*
!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AlphaBitch: She
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur,
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
*
* TheCutie: Freya is very endearing.
*
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that
*
%%* DiedInYourArmsTonight
*
%%* DistressBall
%%* DistressedDamsel
%%* {{Druid}}
*
!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between
%%* EeriePaleSkinnedBrunette
*
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds''
*
* FirstLove: For Merlin. Merlin fell hard for Freya, so much so that he wanted to run away with her
*
%%* TheGwenStacy
* HerosMuse: For Merlin. Freya eventually becomes The Lady Of The Lake and assists Merlin, her FirstLove and TheHero, on his
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
*
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind,
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision
!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
%%* TheIngenue
*
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given
*
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
*
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
*
* KillTheCutie: She's
%%* LadyInRed
%%* LittleDeadRidingHood
*
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect:
*
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
*
* MysteriousVeil: On her
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur,
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back
%%* LoveHurts
*
%%* MadeASlave
%%* MagicalGirl
* MeaningfulLook[=/=]LongingLook: Shares these with
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
*
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen,
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles,
*
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian
* MysteriousWaif: Very little is
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
*
!! King Rodor (James Fox)
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
*
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* PainfulTransformation
*
* ThePromise: '''Freya to Merlin:''' "Someday I will repay you." [[spoiler: She does once she becomes the ''Lady of the Lake''.]]
* RescueRomance: With Merlin. Merlin rescues Freya from being captured as a
* SatelliteLoveInterest: She gets ''one'' scene in which she's permitted to share details of her past (and even that is more of a MythologyGag that establishes her affinity for lakes), the rest of the time she only exists so that Merlin can be her [[TheCaretaker Caretaker]], enjoy openly using his magic in front of her, and experience manpain when she dies. It's especially glaring when he takes her to a lakeside in order to [[LetThemDieHappy Let Her Die Happy]] and she mutters: "you remembered..." Well of course he remembered -- her love of lakes is the only personal detail she ever shares with him!
* SecretIdentity: Freya was the Bastet but nobody knew that at first.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few characters who
* SecretRelationship: With Merlin. Nobody knew that Merlin was in love with Freya, not even Gaius.
* ShrinkingViolet: Freya comes off as really shy and introverted.
* SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan: Her relationship with Merlin. Although, she didn't seek to fall in love with Merlin. Merlin sought her out and fell HARD and she reciprocated.
* SoHappyTogether: With Merlin. Sadly, it doesn't last.
* SpiritAdvisor: For Merlin. Freya becomes the ''Lady of the Lake'' who will help Merlin.
* StarcrossedLovers: With Merlin
** Her romance with Merlin was implied to have been known or destined according to the FisherKing in 3x08.
* TheQuietOne: Doesn't talk very much, and when it does, it's often in a whisper.
%%* UnkemptBeauty
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Dies after one
* WhenTheClockStrikesTwelve: Freya turns into a Bastet.
* TheXOfY: Freya as The Lady of the
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
Changed line(s) 1134,1501 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Other Villains]]
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
! Valiant (Will Mellor)
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
! The Knights of Medhir
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
! Valiant (Will Mellor)
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
! The Knights of Medhir
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
to:
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
[[quoteright:171:https://static.
!Cenred (Creator/TomEllis)
[[quoteright:223:https://static.tvtropes.
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
! Valiant (Will Mellor)
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier,
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
! The Knights of Medhir
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the
%%** BadassNormal
%%* BarbarianLonghair
%%* CurtainsMatchTheWindow
*
* EnemyMine[=/=]FireForgedFriends: Morgause and Cenred seem to be allies over their mutual hatred for Uther.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: He
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%*
*
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out
%%* OnlyOneName
* ShipTease: There seems to be ''something'' going on between Cenred and Morgause. According to Morgause, Cenred only wishes to please her.
-->'''Cenred:''' You are very beautiful when you're angry.
-->'''Morgause:''' Is that why you continue to defy me?
-->'''Cenred:''' You wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
** And this:
--->'''Morgause''': Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
--->'''Cenred''': I don't deny it. But I'm rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
--->'''Morgause''': (with a seductive look) Is that so? Then please me.
%%* TallDarkAndHandsome
%%* TallDarkAndSnarky
* TheUnfought: He barely interacts with any of the good guys, and is ultimately [[spoiler:killed by Morgause]]. (He does briefly get in a SwordFight with Arthur, but it's
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility
! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
%%* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness
Changed line(s) 1504,1621 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Other Allies]]
! Will (Creator/JoeDempsie)
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
! Alator (Gary Lewis)
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
! Will (Creator/JoeDempsie)
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
! Alator (Gary Lewis)
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
to:
!
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[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
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[-'''Gaius''':
* AffablyEvil: He can put up a veneer of courtly manners when required.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: He seems to
*
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she
*
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He pretends to be Arthur's loving uncle while secretly plotting against him.
* BlackCloak: He frequently wears one ([[EvilWearsBlack which you think would be a giveaway as to his true allegiences]]).
* BridalCarry: Carries Morgana like this when he finds her injured in the forest in 4x05.
* TheChessmaster: Agravaine is very scheming and cunning.
* ColourCodedForYourConvenience: He wears black, as does [[spoiler: Morgana]]. That pretty much sums it up.
* ConsummateLiar: He can look his nephew in the eye and swear on his dead sister's life that
* CoolUncle: What Arthur sees him as.
%%* CorruptPolitician
%%* CreepyUncle
* DarkIsEvil: His dark clothes are pretty much a dead giveaway as to who he's really loyal to.
* DevilInPlainSight: He's managed to ingratiate himself at court and goes completely unsuspected by everyone except Merlin and Guinevere.
* DirtyOldMan: Seems to be creepily fascinated by both Morgana and Guinevere, and enjoys standing behind their chairs with his hands close to their necks. Overlaps with {{UST}}, especially in Morgana's case.
* TheDragon: To Morgana during season four.
* EvilChancellor: Plays this role to Arthur, giving him bad advice concealed as genuine concern.
* EvilIsNotWellLit: He is first introduced stepping out of the shadows.
* EvilUncle: To Arthur, as the treacherous brother of Arthur's mother Ygraine.
* GoodAngelBadAngel: The Bad to Merlin's Good.
* HandsomeLech: A sinister version.
* HiddenAgendaVillain: He wants to sabotage Arthur's reign, but as of yet, we're not really sure ''why''. Unless his hatred of Uther extends to Arthur by proxy.
** A DeletedScene reveals that he's [[spoiler:in love with Morgana]].
* HiddenDepths: The end of 4x06 reveals that his feelings for Morgana run deeper than than we'd been led to expect.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Agravine is much more
* IgnoredEnamouredUnderling: He's besotted with Morgana, who treats him with thinly-veiled contempt.
%%* {{Jerkass}}
%%* JerkWithAHeartOfJerk
* KarmicDeath: Especially since no one really cares that [[spoiler:he's dead]].
* KilledOffForReal: [[spoiler: By Merlin, in a rather badass fashion.]]
* LoveMartyr: His devotion to Morgana is rather inexplicable considering she
* ManipulativeBastard: Oh so much.
* MeanCharacterNiceActor: While Agravaine is a bad guy, Nathaniel Parker is just absolutely adorable. Just listen to his laugh in the
* TheMole: He plays the role of Morgana's spy in Arthur's court.
* ObviouslyEvil: Painfully so.
* OhCrap: A fairly priceless one when Gwaine catches him about to slit Gaius's throat.
* TreacherousAdvisor: Often feeds Arthur bad intel and even worse advice on the orders of Morgana.
* PromotionToOpeningTitles: As of 4x04 [[spoiler: after Uther's death in 4x03]], he's credited as a main cast member.
* RegentForLife: Played with. Though Arthur is more or less running Camelot, he appoints his uncle regent in his absence.
* RememberTheNewGuy: The writers take advantage of a year's TimeSkip between series three and four to introduce him as though he's been present in the kingdom all along. Even though he's never been mentioned before, there are lines like: "I promised your mother I'd always be there for you," and "I've known him since I was a child," though there's no indication where he's been all this time.
* RewardedAsATraitorDeserves: [[spoiler:Dies unmourned and unburied in an underground cavern]].
* ShooOutTheNewGuy: After being introduced at the start of series 4 and [[PromotionToOpeningTitles promoted to the opening titles]] in episode
%%* {{Slimeball}}
%%* SmugSmiler
%%* SmugSnake
*
* ToxicFriendInfluence: On Arthur
%%* VillainWithGoodPublicity
* WhatMeasureIsAMook: His PlotArmour eventually fails him, and he [[spoiler:is killed]] alongside a bunch of
*
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity:
! The
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
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[-"I'm not going to apologize
[-"The white dragon bodes well for
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers
A white baby dragon that Merlin hatches from a long-dormant egg, and said to be a good omen for the coming Golden Age of Arthur's reign. The events of the series four finale throw this
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle
* AmbiguousGender: At his birth Kilgharrah identifies Aithusa as a "he", yet later interviews with the cast refer to the dragon as a "she". It's either a RetCon or a GenderFlip.
* BreakTheCutie: From season five, it is pretty evident that Aithusa was tortured and abused when he and Morgana were locked up and isolated for months.
*
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
*
* ChekhovsGunman: Appears in the
* CutenessProximity: Merlin is moved to tears.
* TheCutie: Oh so cute in the
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
*
*
* FaceHeelTurn: Aithusa joined the dark side with Morgana.
* GiantFlyer: Later on, when he grows up.
* GoMadFromTheIsolation: Not as much insane as very severely rattled, but at an attempt to attack Merlin
* HiddenAgendaVillain: We're never given any clear idea why he sides with Morgana over Merlin and Kilgharrah.
%%* IntellectualAnimal
* KickTheDog: [[spoiler:By all appearances, he went through a lot of crap between series 4 and 5. He's emaciated, limping, and can't talk (either because he was never taught or because of some injury). He seems pretty loyal to Morgana, so it seems unlikely that she's responsible.]]
** Finally explained in 5x08. [[spoiler: He was trapped in a oubliette with Morgana for over 2 years and was left horribly crippled when he eventually outgrew his
* LickedByTheDog: Aithusa's affection toward Morgana performs this function.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: To Morgana. As of series 5, Aithusa seems to be the only thing keeping her tenuously sane.
* MeaningfulName: Means "light of the sun" in the language of dragons.
** IronicName: [[spoiler: Due to Morgana being captured, he spent the first two years of his life trapped in a dark pit]].
* MoralityPet: For Morgana in season four and five.
%%* OnlyOneName
%%* OurDragonsAreDifferent
* OutsideContextProblem: No one yet knows why he chose to heal Morgana. [[spoiler:And since he can't talk, he'll never be able to tell.]]
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: As a newborn dragon, he elicits plenty of "aww"s.
* ShoulderSizedDragon: In series 4. In series 5, not so much.
* TeamPet: For Morgana and her army.
* ThereIsAnother: His birth means that Kilgharrah is no longer TheLastOfHisKind.
* UndyingLoyalty: To Morgana.
* TheVoiceless: Because apparently he's never learnt to speak.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Merlin sends Aithusa away from the battle in the GrandFinale, never to be seen or mentioned again for the rest of the episode.
!
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A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.
A womanizing warlord that Morgana enlists in
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of
*
* BadassNormal: He's a
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight
* BetaCouple: They serve as
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
*
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end
*
*
%%* TheBrute
* TheDragon: Seems to become this towards Morgana. Agravaine is smart enough to note that there is a big possibility that he's much more a DragonWithAnAgenda. Then again, Agravaine may just be worried that he'll get replaced.
* EvenEvilHasStandards: Although his intentions toward Guinevere were hardly pure, he avoids the
%%* EvilOverlord
*
%%* OnlyOneName
*
*
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance
*
%%* ScaryBlackMan
* TheUnfettered: Devoted to Morgana in this sense, although we don't see much of him, and gives her his army. When [[spoiler: she ends up not being able to use magic]] he calmly steps in to defend her without panicking or running.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: He's only around for three episodes before Arthur kills him.
Added DiffLines:
[[folder:Minor Characters]]
! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
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[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Kings, Queens, Princesses, and Other Assorted Royals]]
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the crime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
!! King Alined (David Schofield)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
!! King Rodor (James Fox)
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Other Villains]]
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
! Valiant (Will Mellor)
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
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[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
! The Knights of Medhir
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
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An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
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A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Other Allies]]
! Will (Creator/JoeDempsie)
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
! Alator (Gary Lewis)
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
[[/folder]]
! Geoffrey of Monmouth (Michael Cronin)
[[quoteright:213:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/geoffofmonmouth_8674.jpg]]
Camelot's court genealogist, though he also works as a librarian, is a member of the royal council, and officiates over weddings and coronations. He appeared in the first four series, but not the fifth.
* AwesomeMomentOfCrowning: He's usually present, considering he's the one who officiates over them.
* BitCharacter: He turns up sporadically across the first four seasons, usually to drop some minor exposition.
* ChuckCunninghamSyndrome: He disappears completely after 4x02.
* CoolOldGuy: In all his appearances he comes across as reasonable and helpful.
* ErmineCapeEffect: He's nicely dressed in expensive fur-lined robes.
* MrExposition: Usually when Gaius is unavailable for some reason.
* MythologyGag: Geoffrey of Monmouth was real person; a 12th century bishop who was one of the earliest writers of tales of King Arthur and his father Uther.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a nice enough guy, who is important enough to sit on a council of the kingdom's decison-makers.
* SpookySilentLibrary: He works in one.
! Parents of the Main Cast
!! Hunith (Caroline Faber)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/hunith-1_8152.jpg]]
[-"It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin were not so."-]
Merlin's mother, who sends her only son to Camelot at the start of the series in the hopes that he will learn to control his magical abilities under the guidance of her (much) [[WordOfGod older brother Gaius]]. She appears in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]'', ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E13LeMortdArthur}} Le Mort d'Arthur]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]''.
* ActionMom: She joins in the rest of the Ealdor villagers when defending their home from bandits.
* BackForTheFinale: In series four.
* BerserkButton: To Merlin. Nothing gets him more riled or dangerous than if someone threatens his mother.
* BringHelpBack: In 1x10.
* GiveHimANormalLife: {{Inverted}}. Though she wants this for Merlin, she knows that he's exceptionally gifted. Rather than hide him away in Ealdor she sends him to Camelot to get tutelage for his abilities.
* [[GoodParents Good Parent]]
* LetsGetDangerous: When her village is attacked by bandits, she insists that she's going to fight or die trying.
* MamaBear: Towards Merlin of course. She's highly protective of him.
* TheOjou: Hunith is very kind, gentle, polite, maternal and soft spoken, despite not coming from wealth.
* OnlyOneName: Given that most non-royalty only had one name, this is TruthInTelevision. Certainly, if she does have a second name, it's never mentioned.
* OpenMindedParent: She's very easy-going about the fact Merlin has magic, she just wants him to remain safe from harm.
* [[ParentsInDistress Parent In Distress]]: Hunith becomes gravely ill at the end of season one after Merlin makes a deal with Nimueh to save Arthur's life. Merlin does everything in his power to save his mother by sacrificing himself to Nimueh again.
* ThePollyanna: Hunith has a very hopeful and optimistic nature. Seems that Merlin inherited that trait.
* SeparatedAtBirthCasting: It's easy enough to buy her as Merlin's mother.
* ShipperOnDeck: She seems to be a huge Arthur/Merlin shipper.
* SoProudOfYou: Says this ad verbatim at the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* TeamMom: She appears to be maternal to everyone, including Arthur and Gwen.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: On two occasions she disappears abruptly from the episode; first when she falls sick (we're told that she recovers, but it happens off-screen) and second when mercenaries attack Ealdor at the end of series four (Merlin, Arthur and Gwen lead the attackers into the forest, and we're just left to assume that they left Hunith and the other villagers alone).
!! Queen Ygraine Pendragon (Alice Patten)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygraine_1865.jpg]]
[-"He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less my son, nor me any less proud of you."-]
Arthur's mother, Agravaine's sister, the late wife of Uther, and the former Queen of Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E08SinsOfTheFather}} Sins of the Father]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E01TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartI}} The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E02TheTearsOfUtherPendragonPartII}} II]]''.
* AdaptationalConsent: In the original story Ygraine was originally married to Gorlois, and Arthur was conceived when [[BedTrick Uther magically disguised himself as Gorlois]] and slept with her. Here there's no indication that happened or that Ygraine was ever married to anyone except Uther.
* BackFromTheDead: Very temporarily.
* BalancingDeathsBooks: The cause of her death; in order to conceive Arthur, Ygraine was doomed to die in giving birth to him.
* DeadPersonConversation: Thanks to Morgause's spell, Ygraine appears to Arthur to tell him the truth of his birth.
* DeathByChildbirth: This was the price she had to pay in order to bring Arthur into the world.
* DeceasedParentsAreTheBest: Arthur idolizes his mother; so much that he even attacks his father when he finds out that he (Uther) is the cause of her death.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: She has gold hair, and a kind, caring nature.
* TheHighQueen: Was this during her lifetime, as Queen of Camelot.
* InnocentBlueEyes: She has a pair of these, and in her appearance to Arthur claims that she had no idea that her husband had made a deal with Nimeuh to secure Arthur's birth.
* TheLostLenore: To Uther, whose death triggered his hatred of magic.
* MysteriousParent: Arthur often voices regret that he never knew her, and even in the two instances she ''does'' appear, it's unclear whether her spirit is truly manifesting, or whether it's just a spell or hallucination.
* OjouRinglets: She has the two prerequisite ringlets, one on either side of her face, denoting both innocence and social status.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: Her death is the reason for the Great Purge, which informs practically everything that follows.
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead long before the start of the show.
* PresentAbsence: Her death casts a long pall over Camelot, especially in Series 1. Arthur thinks of her often, Uther is clearly still grieving for her, and the exact circumstances of her death are a big plot-point.
* ProperLady: What little we see of her, she comes across as very soft-spoken and feminine.
* RegalRinglets: She has ringlets curled over her forehead, demonstrating her high status.
* SacrificialLamb: She dies as part of the deal Uther made with Nimeuh to ensure Arthur's birth.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: The casting nailed this one. Arthur is the spitting image of his mother.
!! Balinor (John Lynch)
[[quoteright:280:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/balinor_9634.jpg]]
[-"You don't choose to become a Dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son."-]
Merlin's father and the last of the Dragon Lords. In his youth he helped subdue the Great Dragon before Uther betrayed him and tried to have him executed. With Gaius's help he escaped to Ealdor where he was taken in by Hunith, only for Uther's men pursue him into the wilderness. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E13TheLastDragonlord}} The Last Dragonlord]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]''.
* ActionDad: He's quick to jump into combat situations if necessary.
* BackForTheFinale: In the GrandFinale to [[spoiler: instruct Merlin about the nature of his magic]].
* BadassLongcoat: He wears one of these, which also has a practical purpose given his rough lifestyle.
* BarbarianLonghair: Having lived rough in the forest for many years, his hair has grown long.
* BeardOfSorrow: As is often seen on characters played by John Lynch, he wears a beard to accentuate his hangdog expression, and the life of loneliness that Balinor has led.
* TheBeastmaster: Balinor was a Dragon Lord who could command dragons. The gift was passed down from his father and when Balinor died, he passed the gift down to Merlin. Merlin then became the [[LastOfHisKind last Dragon Lord in existence.]]
* ChangedMyMindKid: After first rejecting Merlin's claims, he ends up following him and Arthur and trying to help.
* DaddyHadAGoodReasonForAbandoningYou: Balinor tells Merlin that he left Ealdor and Hunith because he wanted Hunith to be safe. Balinor says that he had too much danger and too many enemies surrounding him for him to stay in Ealdor and live a normal life with Hunith.
* DisappearedDad: Balinor was not aware of Merlin's existence till 2x13.
* FinalSpeech: He manages to impart some last words to Merlin about the nature of dragons.
* FunctionalMagic: Of the LanguageOfMagic type -- he chants a spell, and things happen.
* HealingHands: He's able to heal Arthur's wound, even when Merlin himself couldn't.
* TheHermit: He'd been living by himself when Merlin and Arthur found him.
* IHaveNoSon: Balinor says this to Merlin almost word for word in 2x13. [[spoiler: He later discovers that Merlin is his son.]]
* InTheBlood: Balinor says that the Dragon Lord powers are a sacred gift which are passed down in the lineage from father to son.
* JerkassHasAPoint: He initially refuses to help stop Kilgharragh's rampage on Camelot because Uther deceived him and he empathises with the dragon's fury after being incarcerated for decades.
* KilledOffForReal: He dies saving Merlin's life.
* TheLastOfHisKind: At least until he dies, at which point Merlin inherits his powers.
* LineageComesFromTheFather: Merlin's Dragon Lord abilities have been passed onto him from Balinor.
* LongLostRelative: To Merlin, who is his long lost son.
* LukeYouAreMyFather: Merlin has to tell Balinor that he's his son. He had no idea that Hunith was even pregnant when he left Ealdor.
* MisunderstoodLonerWithAHeartOfGold: He is a loner and isolated from others but Balinor essentially has a good heart and good intentions.
* NatureHero: He lives as [[TheHermit a hermit]] in the wilderness and gathers ingredients from nature for his spells.
* NegatedMomentOfAwesome: His entire episode leads up to him deciding to return to Camelot to stop Kilgharrah with his Dragonlord abilities. Then he dies before he gets there.
* NoSocialSkills: Before he met Merlin, Balinor was very anti-social and hated everyone.
* OnlyOneName: Like Merlin, we never learn of any last name.
* SummonMagic: Balinor was a Dragon Lord, therefore, summoning dragons was needed in order to tame them.
* TakingTheBullet: For Merlin
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Balinor ends up dying in the same episode that he is introduced.
!! Tom (David Durham)
[-"We're on the up now. Things are going to be different."-]
Guinevere's father, the local blacksmith. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E03TheMarkOfNimueh}} The Mark of Nimueh]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* BlackGuyDiesFirst: {{Averted}} and then played straight. He survives his first appearance, only to be killed by castle guards in his second.
* TheBlacksmith: And a pretty darn cool one, since he forged ''Excalibur.''
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Notable for its {{aversion}}. Plenty of other far more important characters have fallen prey to this trope, but despite dying in series 1, Tom is consistently mentioned all the way into series 5.
* KilledOffForReal: Is executed on Uther's orders in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E12ToKillTheKing}} To Kill The King]]''.
* OnlyOneName: As with Guinevere, he's not given a second name.
* MysticalPlague: But is healed by Merlin.
* SacrificialLion: The first reoccurring character to get killed off.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: He's killed off in the second episode he appears in.
* UnwittingPawn: To Tauren, who was using his blacksmithing skills to experiment with alchemy.
!! Vivienne
Morgana and Morgause's mother. Very little is known about her beyond the fact that she was married to Gorlois and had an affair with King Uther (which resulted in Morgana).
* MementoMacGuffin: The bracelet that Morgause gives to Morgana when they first meet belonged to Vivienne.
* MissingMom: Morgana's biological mother, who died long ago.
* MysteriousParent: Very little is known about her, only that she was Gorlois's wife and had an affair with Uther. Whether or not Morgana inherited her magical abilities from her is never explored.
* OnlyOneName: There's no indication of a second name, not even "Le Fay" (as you might have expected from Morgana's mother).
* PosthumousCharacter: She's dead before the show even begins.
* ShoutOut: Her name pops up frequently in Arthurian mythology, usually in connection to the Lady of the Lake.
* UnknownCharacter: We know nothing about her except her relationships to other characters.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: She gave birth to ''Morgana''!
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Kings, Queens, Princesses, and Other Assorted Royals]]
!! King Bayard (Clive Russell)
[[quoteright:169:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/bayard11_1470.bmp]]
The King of Mercia. He is falsely accused of trying to poison Arthur as part of an EvilPlan devised by Nimueh. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E04ThePoisonedChalice}} The Poisoned Chalice]]''.
* ClearMyName: Nimueh frames him for the crime of poisoning Arthur's wine goblet.
* ColourCodedArmies: He and the knights of Mercia wear blue, to contrast with the red-cloaked men of Camelot.
* FlatCharacter: We don't really learn much about him; he's just a pawn in Nimueh's plot.
* {{Frameup}}: Thanks to Nimueh.
* HonourBeforeReason: He's prepared to drink from a (supposedly) poisoned goblet in order to prove his own innocence.
* TheGoodKing: From what we see of him, there's no reason to believe he's not a fair and just ruler.
* OneShotCharacter: Presumably one of the kings of the Five Kingdoms; this is his first and only appearance.
* PeaceConference: Attending this is the reason for him being in Camelot.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He defends himself after being framed, but choses not to take the slight too far.
* UnwittingPawn: Nimeuh uses his gesture of presenting matching goblets to Uther and Arthur against him.
!! King Odin (Fintan [=McKeown=])
[[quoteright:168:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ODIN_8393.bmp]]
[-"I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur Pendragon."-]
The King of a land referred to only as "Odin's Kingdom". He has a vendetta against Arthur after his son was killed in a duel. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E02TheOnceAndFutureQueen}} The Once And Future Queen]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* TheBusCameBack: In one of the most surprising displays of [[ContinuityNod Continuity]] this show has ever done, Odin returns ''forty-one'' episodes after he was last seen to finish off a StoryArc that had lay dormant for three seasons.
* CycleOfRevenge: Arthur attempts to stop this when Uther demands retribution from Odin after his attempt on Arthur's life. It doesn't appeared to have worked.
** A truce is finally agreed upon in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* DuelToTheDeath: How his son was killed.
* FeudingFamilies: With the Pendragons.
* ItsPersonal: {{Subverted}} in that it's the ''villain'' who wants revenge on the ''hero''.
* MeaningfulName: Named after the Norse God of War.
* MisplacedRetribution: Perhaps. We know very little about what really happened between Arthur and Odin's son, save that the latter ended up dead at the former's hands.
* RevengeMyopia: Odin wants Arthur dead because he killed his son; but Arthur claims that he was just defending himself.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: He's been on-screen for about two minutes back in series 2. In series 4 he sends an assassin to kill Arthur, who ends up fatally wounding Uther instead. He's also been mentioned frequently throughout the series.
** He returns in series 5 for an expanded role.
* SympatheticMurderer: His motivation is in avenging his son's death, who died at Arthur's hands in a duel gone wrong. He ends up killing Uther by proxy thanks to an assassin.
* YouKilledMyFather: {{Inverted}}. This is a father seeking revenge for his son.
!! King Alined (David Schofield)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alined_9120.bmp]]
[-"If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then ''his'' men will start a war. We cannot lose!"-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms. He comes to Camelot as part of a PeaceConference, determined to stir up enough trouble to drive the kingdoms back into war. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AmbiguouslyGay: He admits that he finds Arthur attractive, and there's rather a lot of SubText with his court jester.
* BadBoss: To Trickler
* BatmanGambit: He orders his jester to place Arthur and Lady Vivian under a LovePotion, betting that the fallout from various factions will inevitably lead to war.
* {{Chessmaster}}: If it hadn't been for Guinevere's TrueLovesKiss, he would have gotten exactly what he wanted.
* ChessMotif: He demonstrates his plans to Trickler using a chess set.
* DiplomaticImpunity: This is the reason he gets away with his schemes, despite relevant parties knowing he was behind the sabotage.
* FauxAffablyEvil: He's relatively charming in an oily sort of way, and never raises his voice.
* KarmaHoudini: He doesn't get what he wants, but he still leaves Camelot scot-free.
* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* TheMatchmaker: Only in the sense that he wants Arthur and Vivian together in order to make trouble.
* PretextForWar: His entire plan is to create turmoil between the Five Kingdoms so he can go back to selling weapons to everyone.
* WarForFunAndProfit: His key motivation; see above.
!! King Olaf (Creator/MarkLewisJones)
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/olaff_9792.bmp]]
[-'''Alined''': "Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on his daughter."-]
The ruler of one of the Five Kingdoms and father to Lady Vivian. He unknowingly [[UnwittingPawn plays into the hands of King Alined]] when his protectiveness of Vivian leads him to challenge Arthur to a duel, having been led to believe she's been seduced by him. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* BoisterousBruiser: He's quick to anger and fights his own battles.
* BruiserWithASoftCentre: On being bested by Arthur, he accepts defeat graciously. He's also clearly wrapped around his daughter's little finger, and demonstrates genuine love for her.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
* DuelToTheDeath: Challenges Arthur to one.
* EasilyForgiven: After spending the entire episode rampaging over his daughter's virtue, Arthur brings their duel to a close and Olaf becomes entirely amiable.
* FlawExploitation: His protectiveness of Vivian is exploited by King Alined.
* HairTriggerTemper: The mere ''suspicion'' of an insult will have him reaching for the nearest weapon.
* MyGirlIsNotASlut: In front of everyone, he calls Vivian "an innocent girl!" His daughter's reaction to this indicates that she's probably ''not''.
* PapaWolf: See above. No one, real or imagined, messes with his daughter.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: Literally.
* UnwittingPawn: Alined takes advantage of his love for his daughter to cause discord at the peace summit.
* YouAreGrounded: A variation. Vivian is being taken home, presumably for good.
!! Lady Vivian (Creator/GeorgiaMoffett)
[[quoteright:188:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/VivianSD_7874.jpg]]
[-"''I'' am not ''most'' of your guests."-]
Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her [[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
* AlphaBitch: She has no problem insulting Guinevere ''to her face''.
* BeautyIsBad: As noted by Arthur, she's very beautiful but her manners are appalling.
* BrattyTeenageDaughter
* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* TheDitz: Whilst under a spell.
* IKissYourHand: Uther does this on greeting her.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: Once she's put under the [[LovePotion love spell]].
* LargeHam: Georgia Moffett chews the scenery like there's no tomorrow.
* LovePotion: Is the (permanent) victim of one.
* MissingMom: Her mother is unaccounted for and presumed dead.
* RichBitch: And how! She's rude and unpleasant at every possible opportunity.
* RoyalBrat: Though she's referred to as a "lady" instead of a "princess", her father is definitely a king, and she's definitely a brat.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Deliberately an InvokedTrope, being a RoyalBrat who only exists to flounce around in pretty clothes. She and Arthur are put under a [[LovePotion Love Spell]] that makes them act like SickeningSweethearts, much to the bafflement of everyone else.
* SickeningSweethearts: With Arthur.
* SpoiledBrat: It's obvious that her father has given her free rein to do whatever she wants.
* StrongFamilyResemblance: InformedAttribute. When she arrives in Camelot, Uther tells Vivian she looks just like her mother. Since we never see her, we just have to take his word for it.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: At the beginning and end of the episode, when he's not under the love spell, this is Arthur's attitude toward her.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Last we see of her, she's being carted off by her father. For all we know, [[FridgeHorror she's still under the love spell, pining for Arthur]].
!! Princess Elena (Creator/GeorgiaKing)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Elenapic_5917.jpg]]
[-"I'm not the perfect princess, am I?"-]
The Princess of Gawant and daughter of Lord Godwyn. Unbeknownst to her, she was possessed by a Sidhe fairy whilst just a baby, causing her to grow up with a variety of embarrassing traits and peculiarities. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* AllGirlsLikePonies: She has a great love of horses, and being an accomplished rider is one of the few things the Sidhe curse ''hasn't'' affected.
* ArrangedMarriage: Godwyn and Uther organize one between her and Arthur.
* BizarreTasteInFood: She eats live frogs and seems to thoroughly enjoy it.
* BondingOverMissingParents: She and Arthur do this over their [[MissingMom Missing Moms]].
* ChangelingTale: {{Averted}}. Despite being in an episode ''called'' ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]'', her condition is more akin to DemonicPossession than SwitchedAtBirth.
* CuteClumsyGirl: As she's introduced to Arthur for the first time, she immediately falls over her own feet.
* DaddysGirl: Her father clearly adores her, and she him.
* DisposableFiance: Of the "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" variety.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold
* IKissYourHand: Arthur does this as they farewell each other.
* JabbaTableManners: Another Sidhe side-effect.
* MeaningfulName: {{Averted}}. Sure it ''sounds'' a lot like Elaine, but she never meets Lancelot.
* MessyHair: As seen in her page image, her unkempt appearance is an indicator of her Sidhe possession.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: {{Subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed character. Her importance to the narrative has less to do with her relationship to Arthur as it does her role as an UnwittingPawn in [[TheFairFolk The Fair Folks']] attempt to take over Camelot.
* SheCleansUpNicely: Once the pesky Sidhe is gone.
* TomboyPrincess: {{Subversion}}. All her tomboyish qualities are brought on by the Sidhe living inside her. Once it's gone, she's more like a PrincessClassic.
** Though she has a genuine love of horseback riding, which was never a Sidhe trait.
* [[invoked]] UnnecessaryMakeover: With the banishment of the Sidhe inside her, she's become a more refined and elegant princess by the end of the episode. Most people preferred her clumsy, messy persona, [[https://thebookluvrr1816.tumblr.com/post/660933588505821184/princess-elena-tumblr-tags-for-merlinbingo as in this comment]]: "honestly turning her into a dainty princess at the end of the ep was the greatest crime this show ever committed."
* UnwittingPawn: To the Sidhe.
!! Lord Godwyn (Simon Williams)
[-"Maybe it's time things changed."-]
The ruler of Gawant and father of Princess Elena. Due to his old friendship with Uther, the two have organized an ArrangedMarriage between their children. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: An elderly man who doesn't seem too fussed by his daughter calling off her ArrangedMarriage.
* DotingParent: Obviously cares very much about his daughter, and wants the best for her, even if he's somewhat annoyed by her less-than-ladylike qualities.
* ManHug: With Uther
* NiceGuy: He's polite, kind, and just comes across as an all-round decent guy.
* OpenMindedParent: When Arthur and Elena decide not to get married, he respects their decision with no drama.
!! King Caerleon (Steven Hartley)
[-"You did not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone".-]
The King of Caerleon. After being caught trespassing in Camelot's territory he is caught and beheaded by Arthur. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]''.
* BitPartBadGuy: He only gets one scene in which he's caught trespassing on Camelot territory and promptly executed for his crime.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: He demonstrates not the slightest bit of fear when Arthur threatens to execute him -- in fact, ''Arthur'' seems more perturbed about the whole thing.
* HonourBeforeReason: Faced with a choice between signing a peace treaty and getting his head cut off, he chooses death.
* IdiotBall: He practically grabs Arthur's sword and cuts his own head off.
* KingIncognito: For a while, at least until Agravaine notices his medallion.
* OffWithHisHead: How he dies at Arthur's hands.
!! Queen Annis (Creator/LindsayDuncan)
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/AnnisQ_6614.jpg]]
[-"There is something about you Arthur Pendragon. Something that gives me hope for us all."-]
The Queen of Caerleon. After her husband is executed at Arthur's hands, she is goaded by Morgana into seeking revenge. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E05HisFathersSon}} His Father's Son]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI}} Arthur's Bane Part I]]''.
* ApronMatron: A CoolOldLady who commands unquestioning loyalty from her people.
* BadassNormal: She has no magical or sword-fighting abilities whatsoever, but is always in complete control of any given situation.
* BloodKnight: GenderFlipped and {{subverted}} when Arthur convinces her to declare peace.
* TheCameo: Appears briefly in 5x01 to grant safe passage to Arthur and his knights.
* CrusadingWidow: Briefly wanted vengeance for her husband's death at Arthur's hands.
* ErmineCapeEffect: She wears a fur cloak around her shoulders.
* EvilMatriarch: {{Subverted}} despite first appearances (and surprisingly, given the show's track record with evil female characters ''and'' the fact that she shares her name with an evil spirit of English folklore).
* {{Expy}}: Bears more than a passing resemblance to Boudicca.
* FieryRedhead: She is indeed a redhead, and on meeting Arthur for the first time, she doesn't hestitate to slap him around the face for the death of her husband.
* TheHighQueen: After her husband's death, she becomes the embodiment of this trope: regal, calm and commanding (though a bit older than the trope usually implies).
* ModestRoyalty: Despite a fur cloak, she wears relatively practical and non-ornamental clothing.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Played with.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Delivers a particularly brutal one to Morgana, when she gives a NotSoDifferentRemark regarding Morgana and Uther. All things considered, it's a miracle that Annis left that tent alive, and this was probably only down to the fact that she unsettled Morgana so profoundly.
* ProudWarriorRace: Her kingdom seems to be full of staunch, stoic, fur-clad warriors.
!! Princess Mithian (Creator/JanetMontgomery)
[[quoteright:208:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/592px-Mithian_s5_2_5121.jpg]]
[-"I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved."-]
The Princess of Nemeth. She comes to Camelot in order to wed Arthur as part of a peace settlement between their kingdoms. Though she finds herself genuinely falling for Arthur, he breaks off the engagement on realizing that his heart still lies with Guinevere. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* AllLoveIsUnrequited: Even by the end of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', it appears that she still has a little bit of a crush on Arthur.
* AmicableExes: With Arthur.
* BeautyEqualsGoodness: She's a classic beauty with fair skin, and a genuinely lovely person.
* BigEntrance: She certainly makes an impression when she first arrives in Camelot.
* BirdsOfAFeather: With Arthur, a deliberate contrast to the OppositesAttract relationship he has with Guinevere.
* BridalCarry: Leon carries her like this when [[{{Fainting}} she faints]] outside the castle.
* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
* CostumePorn: Her gold and white gowns.
* DecoyDamsel: Though she's coerced into luring Arthur into a trap after her father is taken hostage.
* DieForOurShip: ''[[invoked]]'' Merlin takes an irrational dislike to Mithian simply because he ships Arthur/Guinevere. He's notably much nicer to her when she returns to Camelot three years ''after'' Arthur and Gwen are safely married.
* DisposableFiance: Again, of the "Let's call it off" variety.
* DistressedDamsel: In her second appearance, her kingdom is overthrown and she's taken hostage by Morgana.
* DramaticUnmask: Or rather, "unveil".
* ErmineCapeEffect: She's wearing a ''massive'' white fur coat for her arrival and departure scenes.
* {{Expy}}: There's some speculation that she was based on the more familiar characterization of Guinevere, being both high-born and in a (temporary) ArrangedMarriage with Myth/KingArthur - indeed, even down to the RavenHairIvorySkin.
* {{Fainting}}: Of exhaustion in 5x04.
* GracefulLoser: She handles rejection well.
* HoneyTrap: In 5x04, though more in the capacity of a DistressedDamsel than a FemmeFatale.
* HourglassPlot: A slight one with Guinevere. They completely switch roles between ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* ImpracticallyFancyOutfit: She travels in a white fur coat and goes hunting in a gold silk dress.
* MinorFlawMajorBreakup: Mithian's flaw is that she isn't Guinevere. In breaking off their engagement, Arthur ends up giving her the disputed lands between their kingdoms in order to avoid war.
* MysteriousVeil: On her first visit to Camelot she wears a veil, all the better for a [[DramaticUnmask Dramatic Unmasking]].
* NiceGirl: She's friendly with Arthur, and kind to Merlin despite the fact that he's a servant and the sort that her fellow nobles tend to step over without a thought.
* NiceToTheWaiter: Somewhat ironically considering Merlin often complains about his treatment at the hands of nobles - but when this one ''is'' actually nice to him, [[DieForOurShip he's too busy giving her the cold shoulder to appreciate it]].
** She's not just doing it for Arthur, either; she's just as nice to Merlin when she comes back in 5x04 and is visibly upset when her attempt to warn him about Morgana gets him nearly killed.
* PoliticallyActivePrincess: Despite having a vaguely mentioned father, she's the one who handles the negotiations and arranged marriage thing with Arthur over the disputed lands between their kingdoms.
* PrincessClassic: She looks, sounds and behaves like the quintessential fairytale princess, with one striking {{subversion}}: she [[DidNotGetTheGirl Does Not Get The Guy]].
* PrincessesRule: There's no sign or mention of her parents, yet she's a princess and not a queen.
** Though her second appearance expands on her background and reveals that she does in fact have a father.
* RavenHairIvorySkin: At least in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', in which Mithian's hair seems to be several shades darker than it was in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RequisiteRoyalRegalia: She wears a coronet throughout ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]''.
* RomanticFalseLead: Briefly with Arthur, the two being royalty, BirdsOfAFeather, and set for an ArrangedMarriage. He eventually rejects her for Gwen, though they remain on good terms.
* RomanticRunnerUp: In many ways she's better suited to Arthur than Guinevere, but the latter is his preferred choice.
* PerfectlyArrangedMarriage: {{Subverted}}. She and Arthur would be perfect for each other, were it not for the simple fact that he's in love with someone else.
* PrettyInMink: Wore [[http://oi45.tinypic.com/10e3dat.jpg a long white fur coat]] when she arrived in Camelot.
* ProperLady: She's well-mannered, well-groomed, and always impeccably polite.
* SatelliteLoveInterest: Notably {{subverted}}. She is brought to Camelot to join in an ArrangedMarriage to Arthur, but instead of being treated as a mere impediment to his happiness with Guinevere, she is a likable and developed characters. Though her function ''was'' simply as a LoveInterest to Arthur, she was also a three-dimensional character who ended up being popular enough to return to the show in the next season.
* TheSmartGirl: Unlike most nobles, who tend to ignore him, or regard him as a bumbling idiot, she very quickly catches on to the fact that Merlin is far more than he seems. Not the magic part, that is, but the fact that he's not just Arthur's manservant, being (informally) his closest adviser, whose opinion Arthur greatly values.
* UnknownRival: She and Guinevere never meet.
** They do eventually meet in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]'', but although Mithian can now put a name and face to the mystery woman that she was passed over for, it's unclear if Guinevere knows whether Mithian is anything other than a visiting princess in need of help.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Narrowly {{averted}}. In a bid to impress Arthur, she shoots a young deer in the forest. Unbeknownst to her, the deer is actually Guinevere under an enchantment.
* WhatDoesHeSeeInHer: She's flabbergasted when Arthur forsakes her for the blacksmith's daughter, though also seems rather impressed by his devotion.
* WomanScorned: {{Subverted}}. Despite the snub, she remains on good terms with Camelot. In fact, she seems rather moved by Arthur's devotion to Guinevere - see her page quote.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She knows she's in a love story, but doesn't realize that it's not hers. As such, she spends the first half of ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E11TheHuntersHeart}} The Hunter's Heart]]'' acting like (and being treated as) the sole [[LoveInterest Romantic Love Interest]], only to eventually learn she was the RomanticFalseLead all along. Exit stage left.
!! King Rodor (James Fox)
[[quoteright:185:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/RODOR_9679.bmp]]
[-"Don't look so surprised. I commanded an army in my time."-]
The King of Nemeth and father of Princess Mithian. When his kingdom is invaded by King Odin, he's held hostage and used as bait to lure Arthur into a trap. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E04AnothersSorrow}} Another's Sorrow]]''.
* CoolOldGuy: He's definitely getting on in years, but has a chill personality and able to crack jokes under pressure.
* DistressedDude: Morgana takes him hostage to lure Arthur out of Camelot.
* TheGoodKing: He comes across as kindly and just.
* IHaveYourWife: Father in this case, Morgana uses this ploy on Mithian.
* IWillOnlySlowYouDown: Though the unanimous response is "not a chance".
* LivingMacGuffin: What his role amounts to.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: He's a NiceGuy who commands respect and at one point orders the others to leave him behind as IWillOnlySlowYouDown.
* StillGotIt: A variation; see his quote.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Other Villains]]
! Mary Collins (Creator/EveMyles)
[[quoteright:171:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/MaryMerlin_2534.jpg]]
[-"I promise you, before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears."-]
A witch whose son is executed at Uther's behest. She decides to take her revenge by assassinating Prince Arthur, disguising herself as a singer due to arrive in Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E01TheDragonsCall}} The Dragon's Call]]''.
* ActingForTwo: Eve Myles played the elderly witch and the young woman she disguises herself as.
* CobwebJungle: Creates one when she casts her final spell.
* ColourFailure: What happens to her victims after she's breathed in their life-force -- they're left grey and colourless.
* CompellingVoice: Her singing voice puts the whole court to sleep.
* EvilDiva: Quite literally. After murdering a singer and taking her place at court, Mary uses her voice to lull the entire court into a deep sleep so she can more easily assassinate Arthur.
* FallingChandelierOfDoom: What does for her in the end, though she still has enough strength left in her to make a last attempt to kill Arthur.
* {{Foreshadowing}}: Her forty-five minute appearance is Morgana's entire StoryArc in a nutshell, right down to her motivation (revenge), the focus of her anger (Uther and therefore Arthur by proxy) and the magical implements she uses (glamour, a whirlwind and a VoodooDoll).
* GlamourFailure: Whenever she steps in front of a mirror, her reflection is of her true self.
* LifeDrinker: She appears to ''breath in'' the life-force of others, leaving them as a dissicated corpse.
* MagicMusic: Her song puts the court to sleep.
* MamaBear: Her motivation is to avenge the death of her son, executing at Uther's behest.
* TheMirrorShowsYourTrueSelf: Whenever she looks into a mirror while in her disguise, her true face is revealed. This is how Merlin realizes that she's an imposter.
* NoNameGiven: [[AllThereInTheManual Except in the credits]].
* RevengeByProxy: She goes after Arthur in revenge for her own son's death.
* StarterVillain: The very first foe that Merlin has to face.
* ThrowingYourSwordAlwaysWorks: With her last strength, she flings a dagger at Arthur but Merlin is able to [[DivingSave push him out of the way]].
! Valiant (Will Mellor)
[[quoteright:183:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/valiant_8135.bmp]]
A knight who enters a tournament at Camelot with a magical shield that will ensure his victory.
* TheBrute: He's strong and violent and even without the help of magic, a challenge to defeat in battle.
* CardCarryingVillain
* ColourMotif: Yellow is the colour of cowardice, and he gives himself an unfair advantage in the tournament.
* ForTheEvulz: He's given no discernable motivation for what he does... he's just a jerk, basically.
* HandsomeLech: He comes on pretty strongly to Morgana when meeting her at court.
* KnightInShiningArmour: {{Subverted}}
* IronicName: Valiant, he ain't.
* IKissYourHand: To Morgana
* ReptilesAreAbhorrent: His shield has three poisonous snakes upon it that come to life and attack anyone who threatens to best him in combat.
* RuleOfThree: Three snakes on his shield
* PoisonIsEvil: That he uses magic to fight makes him a cheater; that he utilizes ''poison'' is clearly even more dishonourable in hand-to-hand combat.
* ShoutOut: Presumably his name is derived from ''ComicStrip/PrinceValiant'' (an Arthurian comic strip).
* StarterVillain: Just as Mary Collins was a magical foe for Merlin to face, Valiant is Arthur's first enemy to defeat, mainly through combat.
* VillainBall: Why would you feed your magical snakes with the door unlocked?
! Edwin Muirden (Julian Rhind-Tutt)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Edwin_8776.bmp]]
[-"I want my face to be the last face you ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents' revenge."-]
A physician whose parents were burnt at the stake at Uther's command and who returns to Camelot years later to seek his revenge. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E06ARemedyToCureAllIlls}} A Remedy To Cure All Ills]]''.
* BestServedCold: As a child, his parents were burnt at the stake by Uther. As an adult, he's returned to exact his revenge.
* {{Blackmail}}: He gets rid of Gaius by threatening to reveal Merlin's secret.
* CreepyLongFingers: There's an emphasis on his hands; before we ever see his face, we see his hands creeping like a spider across his desk.
* CreepyPhysical: It's done with a lighter hand than most examples of this trope, but Edwin's examination of Morgana is still creepily intimate.
* DeadlyDoctor: He gains Uther's trust by anonymously sending flowers to Morgana with a deadly beetle concealed inside, and then healing her from the near-fatal haemorrhage it causes.
* DeathBySecretIdentity: It's only a matter of seconds between Edwin learning Merlin has magical abilitities and getting an axe to his face.
* FriendToBugs: He controls the spiders that sends Morgana into a coma-like sleep.
* GoodScarsEvilScars: The evil kind.
* InTheHood: He wears a deep hood to hide his facial scarring.
* ManipulativeBastard: He sends flowers to Morgana with a sleep-inducing spider inside, then turns up to conveniently heal her of this affliction.
* MeaningfulName: Edwin Muir was the author of [[http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/merlin/ this Merlin-centric poem]], one which also lent the title to the two-part GrandFinale.
* PlayingWithFire: Creates a circle of fire around Gaius.
* {{Revenge}}: His entire motivation -- to kill Uther for executing his parents.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin, very briefly.
* VillainWithGoodPublicity: He comes across as a helpful, mild-mannered physician, meaning people are even ''less'' likely than usual to believe Merlin's suspicions.
* WeCanRuleTogether: Tries this on Merlin.
! Sophia (Creator/HollidayGrainger)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/SophiaMerlin_8982.bmp]]
[-"For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal death."-]
The daughter of a renegade Sidhe, Sophia is desperate to gain immortality and return to Avalon by offering up Arthur as a human sacrifice to her people. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's very beautiful, all the better to lure men to their deaths.
* BigNo: Before she dies.
* BitchInSheepsClothing
* BoomStick: Her staff.
* DecoyDamsel: She and her father get themselves into Camelot by staging a RescueRomance.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member, albeit an exiled one.
* FemmeFatale: Even before she magically enchants him, she's using feminine wiles on Arthur to get herself into the castle.
* GoldAndWhiteAreDivine: She wears gold and white gowns to denote her mystical status.
* HoistByHisOwnPetard: Merlin uses her own staff to destroy her.
* IKissYourHand: Arthur when he first meets her.
* KissOfDeath: She kisses Arthur after enchanting him, which may or may not be a necessary part of the spell.
* MindManipulation: She uses magic to hypnotize Arthur.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Unlike the usual gold we see in Merlin's eyes, Sophia's glow red when she casts a spell.
* UngratefulBastard: When Arthur saves her from a stray bolt from a crossbow, she's not remotely grateful - only bitter that she needed rescuing in the first place.
* TheVamp: There doesn't seem to be any ''particular'' need to seduce Arthur (since she ends up hypnotizing him), but she does it anyway.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin blows her up. It's a bit disconcerting.
! Aulfic (Kenneth Cranham)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Aulfic_7595.bmp]]
[-"It is my fate to live a mortal life."-]
A member of the Sidhe who was exiled from Avalon, Aulfric promises his people the blood of Prince Arthur if they agree to return immortality to his daughter. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]''.
* AsYouKnow: He relates the plan to his daughter (which she knew perfectly well) in order to fill the audience in to what they're doing.
* BoomStick: His staff.
* LudicrousGibs: Merlin blows him to bits, for added irony, with his own staff.
* TheFairFolk: Is a member of this race, albeit an exiled one.
* EvilLaugh: Cackles to himself whenever his EvilPlan is going well.
* TheExile: He was banished from Avalon, along with his daughter for killing a fellow Sidhe.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
* LargeHam: He's certainly not the most ''subtle'' villain, even by this show's standards.
* PetTheDog: It's clear by the end that everything he's done has been to save his daughter's life, and is prepared to sacrifice himself in the process.
* RedEyesTakeWarning: Gaius gets a glimpse of these.
* YouHaveOutlivedYourUsefulness: The bandits that he pays to stage an attack on himself and his daughter. After Arthur dispatches them, Aulfric kills the sole survivor.
* YourHeadAsplode: Merlin uses his own staff to simply blow him up.
! Sidhe Elder (Michael Jenn)
[[quoteright:201:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/sidheeld_9177.jpg]]
The ruler of the Sidhe. Appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E07TheGatesOfAvalon}} The Gates Of Avalon]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]]''.
* ChangelingTale: He initiates one by sending one of his subjects into the body of the infant Princess Elena.
* {{Chessmaster}}: Has organised for a Sidhe to possess Princess Elena, thus ensuring that a Sidhe Queen will one day sit on the throne of Camelot. [[FridgeLogic This poses some questions]].
* TheFairFolk: Is the ruler of the Fair Folk of Avalon.
* OurFairiesAreDifferent: Blue, with pointed teeth and weird growths on their faces.
* FangsAreEvil: Even though his size might qualify them as CuteLittleFangs.
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: Merlin kills him in his second appearance in [[{{Recap/MerlinS03E06TheChangeling}} The Changeling]].
* WingedHumanoid: He has wings but (apart from a few weird facial features and a blue tint) otherwise looks human.
! Tristan de Bois (Rick English/Creator/ChristopherFairbank)
[[quoteright:245:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Tristanwraith_7882.jpg]]
[-"Who will take up my challenge?"-]
Queen Ygraine's brother, who blamed Uther for her death and challenged him to a duel. Though he was killed, he swore with his dying breath that he would return to Camelot to have his revenge. Years later, Nimueh resurrects him so that he might fulfil this vow. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E09Excalibur}} Excalibur]]''.
* AnimateDead: Nimueh uses magic to bring him back from the dead.
* BackFromTheDead: Uther killed Tristan years ago; now with Nimueh's help he returns as a wraith.
* BigEntrance: He leaps on horseback through a stained glass window whilst Arthur is undergoing a ceremony to become crown prince.
* {{BFS}}: His weapon of choice is a greatsword.
* DynamicEntry: Rides a black horse through a stained glass window in the middle of a ceremony honouring Arthur.
* BlackKnight
* {{Curse}}: With his dying breath he places a curse on Uther, promising to return.
* DramaticUnmask: Or "unhelmeting".
* DuelToTheDeath: His whole purpose is to keep challenging the Knights of Camelot to this until either Arthur or Uther face him.
** He died in one of these to Uther 20 years earlier, after challenging Uther due to blaming him for the death of Tristan's sister, Ygraine.
* DyingCurse: After being mortally wounded by Uther in their duel, Tristan swore he'd return to one day and wreak his revenge on Camelot. At the time, his words were dismissed as a dying man's ravings.
* TheFaceless: Until TheReveal at the end of the episode. [[FacialHorror Then it's shown to be an eyeless, mummified skull]].
* ForgottenFallenFriend: Three seasons later, Agravaine never once brings up the subject of his dead brother.
* ImplacableMan: Almost effortlessly kills Owaine and Pellinore, and only defeated by Uther due to some secret magical assistance.
* OurZombiesAreDifferent: Tristan is referred to as a wraith; he's impervious to all weapons and can only be killed by a weapon imbued by dragonfire, otherwise, he'll continue killing until he slays the target of his revenge.
* RevenantZombie: He's risen as this via necromancy, though he's referred to as a wraith. He can ambulate perfectly and is driven by desire for revenge on Uther, but he's really a a dessicated corpse underneath that suit of armour.
* {{Revenge}}: His motivation, though as he's working under Nimueh's control, it's impossible to say how cognizant he is of this.
* ShoutOut: His role is highly reminiscent of ''[[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight The Green Knight]]'' in Arthurian Legend.
* ThrowingDownTheGauntlet: This is literally how he issues his challenge.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: He's finally defeated when Uther (unknowingly) uses Excalibur to defeat him.
! Catrina (Sarah Parish)
[[quoteright:182:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/cat_3928.bmp]]
[-"Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my control."-]
A hideous troll that takes on the visage of an old friend of Uther in order to seduce him. On becoming Queen of Camelot, she uses her newfound power to accumulate her deepest desires: riches and dung. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E05BeautyAndTheBeastPartI}} Beauty and the Beast Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E06BeautyAndTheBeastPartII}} II]]''.
* AlienBlood: Troll blood is a strange green hue.
* BeautyIsBad: Her attractiveness is often commented on, and part of the reason she's welcomed so warmly into Camelot.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She comes across as a kind and pleasant person, but has evil intentions to seduce and kill Uther.
* ElephantInTheLivingRoom: Once she reverts back into her true form, and everyone but Uther can clearly see it.
* GodSaveUsFromTheQueen: On marrying Uther she becomes Queen of Camelot and immediately starts to raise taxes.
* HypnoTrinket: How she controls Uther.
* ImpostorForgotOneDetail: Gaius suspects her because the real Catrina had a rare bone condition.
* LovePotion: She uses on Uther to make him fall in love with her.
* OurTrollsAreDifferent: Ugly and preternaturally strong, they have an appetite for rotten food and subsequently have stinking breath.
! Aredian (Creator/CharlesDance)
[[quoteright:173:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/aradien_8359.bmp]]
[-"It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like a contagion."-]
A [[TheWitchHunter Witch Finder]], who comes to Camelot at Uther's invitation in order to root out any witches or wizards in the kingdom. Due to Charles Dance's performance, he ended up being one of the show's most memorable [[OneShotCharacter One Shot Villains]]. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E07TheWitchfinder}} The Witchfinder]]''.
* BadassLongcoat: Fairly self-explanatory -- he has one, and it makes him look badass.
* DisneyVillainDeath: He trips backwards and falls out of a high window.
* TheDreaded: Everyone cowers in fear when they learn of his arrival, especially Morgana.
* FalseConfession: He extracts them from his victims.
* {{Frameup}}: Of Gaius.
* FramingTheGuiltyParty
* {{Irony}}: While he framed his victims, it is quite ironic that the three people he framed, Gaius, Merlin and Morgana were actually wizards. A false witch finder was actually the closest one of finding true wizards.
* ManipulativeBastard: He's an expert at playing on people's fears and finding the chinks in their armour.
* SignatureHeadgear: He has a wide-brimmed and distinctly 17th century-looking hat (as you would expect from this [[TheWitchHunter character type]]).
* TheSociopath: Shows no empathy or remorse for any of his actions whether past or present.
* TheWitchHunter: Almost literally, though he refers to himself as a witch ''finder''.
! Alvarr (Creator/JosephMawle)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alvarr_5043.jpg]]
[-"To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime."-]
The leader of a group of Druids that desires the downfall of Uther and who manipulates Morgana (and Mordred) into joining his cause. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E11TheWitchsQuickening}} The Witch's Quickening]]''.
* AllGirlsWantBadBoys: He works this angle on Morgana.
* AlmostKiss: With Morgana. Later he kisses her on the cheek.
* BattleCouple: With his girlfriend, Enmyria.
* BecomingTheMask: Though he's clearly playing Morgana at first, director Alice Troughton (on the DVDCommentary) insists that Alvarr was genuine about his feelings for her by the end of the episode (though Creator/KatieMcGrath didn't seem quite as convinced).
* GreyAndGreyMorality: He's genuinely devoted to his cause, and seems legitimate in his fondness for Enmyria and Mordred, but is obviously not above manipulating everyone for his own ends.
* HandsomeLech: He's good looking, but rather skeevy in his pursuit of Morgana, especially as the audience knows he's just manipating her.
* ManipulativeBastard: He clearly knows which of Morgana's buttons to press in order to enlist her help.
* ParentalSubstitute: To Mordred.
* PlayingPossum: What he's doing the first time we see him.
* WhatHappenedToTheMouse: Or possible ShooOutTheNewGuy considering Alvarr is set up as a fairly important figure in the conflict between Druids and Camelot, but is never seen or referred to again.
! The Knights of Medhir
A warband of seven dark knights, they were originally Camelot's finest warriors before they were seduced into becoming the minions of a sorceress, wreaking havoc until their mistress was killed. Sleeping in the ruined castle of Idirsholas, Morgause awakes them to serve her. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E12TheFiresOfIdirsholas}} The Fires of Idirsholas]]''.
* {{BlackKnight}}
* TheDreaded: Their reputation is so fearsome that Uther immediately orders Arthur to investigate mere rumours that the Knights have reawoken.
* FallenHero: They were once some of Camelot's finest knights until being seduced to TheDarkSide.
* MadeOfIron: No weapon can harm or even slow them down.
* MalevolentMaskedMen: The Knights wear iron face masks beneath [[InTheHood hooded cloaks]].
* PerpetualMotionMonster: Once awoken, they never stop coming.
* RuleOfSeven: The Knights number seven in total.
* ShoutOut: They bear more than a few similarities to the Ringwraiths in Film/TheLordOfTheRings.
* SlaveMooks: To Morgause. She reanimates them to help her kill Uther while Camelot is under a sleeping spell.
* TinTyrant: They wear full suits of dark armour.
* UndeathAlwaysEnds: The only way to stop the Knights is to either kill the one controlling them or force them to end the spell directing the Knights.
* TheVoiceless: They only speak in growls and snarls.
* WasOnceAMan: Formerly some of Camelot's finest knights, they're now mindless undead warriors who only stir to action at the command of a powerful necromancer.
* WouldHitAGirl: Subverted; one of the Knights is about to kill Morgana but checks his blow at the last moment (though it's left open to discussion whether the Knight spares her because of her connection to Morgause or because he recognizes Morgana as the source of the sleeping curse on Camelot).
! Julius Borden (Creator/JamesCallis)
[[quoteright:186:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/brd_5497.bmp]]
An old pupil of Gaius who left his tutelage under murky circumstances. Since then, he gradually collected the three pieces of a golden triskelion that is said to open the Tomb of Askanar where the final dragon egg was hidden centuries ago.
* AffablyEvil: He comes across as quite friendly and charming.
* DarkAndTroubledPast: Not that we learn much about it.
* DeceptiveDisciple: To Gaius.
* LeftForDead: Merlin leaves him to die in a CollapsingLair.
* ManipulativeBastard: Easily manipulates Merlin into helping him gather the tools he needs to find the tomb.
* NeverFoundTheBody: Thanks to this, there was some speculation that he might return (he doesn't).
* PermaStubble: Clearly hasn't had a shave in a while.
* SufferTheSlings: His main weapon of choice.
* TamperingWithFoodAndDrink: He uses a slingshot to fire a satchet of poison into the knight's cooking pot.
! Lamia (Charlenne [=McKenna=])
[[quoteright:175:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ThisLamia_937.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "They could control the mind of a man, suck the life from him with a single embrace."-]
A creature of dark magic, created by the High Priestesses of the Old Religion as a weapon against the Ancient Kings by mingling the blood of a girl and a serpent together. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''.
* AdaptationalVillainy: In the myths, not all lamia were evil.
* BloodMagic: How the lamia were created.
* BrainwashedAndCrazy: Her powers render the Knights as this.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She plays the part of the innocent victim, all the while fully intending to devour all the Knights.
* CharacterTitle: ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E08Lamia}} Lamia]]''
* CharmPerson: Even without words, she uses some sort of inherent magical enchantment to charm the Knights.
* EldritchAbomination: Lamia's true form.
* DecoyDamsel: She presents herself as a DistressedDamsel when the Knights come across her.
* GoneHorriblyRight: The Priestesses made the lamias as a weapon, only to lose control of them.
* HatePlague: Her magic infects the knights like this.
* OneGenderRace: There are only female lamia.
* ShapeshiftingSeducer: Her true form is a tentacled EldritchAbomination, though she can take on the disguise of a lovely young woman.
* SuccubiAndIncubi: Though nothing graphic happens on-screen (family show!), this is her modus operandi -- to seduce, then destroy.
* TheVamp: Becomes more seductive and manipulative the more time she spends with the Knights.
* TurnedAgainstTheirMasters: The High Priestesses of the Old Religion created the lamia to be [[LivingWeapon living weapons]] in their wars with the ancient kings, but the creatures developed such a love of killing they became impossible to control.
* VoluntaryTransformation: After Merlin injures her with a telekinetically thrown sword, she transforms in a humanoid serpent creature.
* WoundedGazelleGambit: Fakes weakness and fatigue when the Knights chance upon her in the forest.
! Lancelot du Lac (Creator/SantiagoCabrera)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tumblr_lvmli8guq01r16r9jo1_500_1190.jpg]]
A shade resurrected from the dead by Morgana in order to tear Arthur and Guinevere apart. Though it bears an exact resemblance to Lancelot, his will is entirely controlled by Morgana. Appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS04E09LancelotDuLac Lancelot Du Lac]]''.
* BackFromTheDead: Morgana uses a magical coin to raise him from the dead.
* {{Brainwashed}}: He's completely under Morgana's thrall, with no real idea of who he is.
* CameBackWrong: He's BackFromTheDead, but clearly not the same Lancelot that his friends once knew.
* DeadPersonImpersonation: He pretends to be the same Lancelot that once made a HeroicSacrifice to save Camelot.
* DeathEqualsRedemption: InUniverse. Despite having committed treason, him taking his own life reaffirmed him being "a man of honour" in Arthur's eyes.
* DrivenToSuicide: On Morgana's command.
* DueToTheDead: Despite being remembered as a traitor, Merlin takes his body for a cremation on the waters of Lake Avalon.
* DyingAsYourself: There's one last glimpse of the real Lancelot before Merlin cremates his body.
* GoSeduceMyArchnemesis: Is what Morgana commands him to do (though she has no romantic/sexual interest in him herself).
* HandsomeLech: Under Morgana's spell, he's a lot creepier and subtly aggressive than he was as himself, especially in his interactions with Guinevere.
* ImposterForgotOneDetail: Merlin [[BluffTheImposter figures him out]] by framing a sentence that leads him to stating that he has no idea Merlin has magic.
* KissingUnderTheInfluence: With Guinevere.
* LonelyFuneral: Only Merlin attends.
%%* NakedOnArrival: Presumably.
%%* NewOldFlame: To Guinevere.
* NoHoldsBarredBeatdown: With Arthur, after his tryst with Gwen.
* PaintItBlack: Morgana dresses him in matching black.
* RelationshipSabotage: As Guinevere's FirstLove, he's sent by Morgana to undermine her relationship with Arthur.
* SoullessShell: He looks and sounds like Lancelot, but is completely under Morgana's thrall.
%%* SpotTheImposter
* VikingFuneral: Merlin sets his boat adrift on the Lake of Avalon.
! Ruadan (Creator/LiamCunningham)
[[quoteright:195:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/mer_-_Copy_9409.jpg]]
A powerful druid who allies himself with Morgana in order to topple the Pendragon regime, informing her of a mysterious entity called the Diamir that holds the key to all knowledge. He appeared in ''[[Recap/MerlinS05E01ArthursBanePartI Arthur's Bane Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E02ArthursBanePartII}} Part II]]''.
* DyingMomentOfAwesome: He has a magnificent death scene, perhaps one of the best on the entire show, in which he single-handedly rescues his daughter from a guarded citadel before succumbing to his wounds.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}} in that he's motivated by the protection of his own people, and clearly loves his daughter very much.
* FlashStep: Pulls off one of these when Sefa comes to bring him information.
%%* GreatEscape: Pulls one off for Sefa.
* PetTheDog: His cold demeanour slips a bit when he talks with his daughter.
* PlayingWithFire: Conjures up a line of fire to facilitate his escape.
%%* StormingTheCastle: All by himself.
* TravellingAtTheSpeedOfPlot: He gets around quickly.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: He's out to kill Arthur and destroy Camelot, but it's because the Druids have been relentlessly persecuted for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: He seems genuine about the nobility of his cause, clearly isn't taking sadistic enjoyment in taking lives, and truly loves his daughter.
! Kara (Creator/AlexandraDowling)
[[quoteright:193:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/kara_9814.bmp]]
[-"It is not a crime to fight for your freedom. It is not a crime to fight for the right to be who you are."-]
A druid girl who joins forces with Morgana in order to destroy Camelot and free her people. After trying to assassinate Arthur she is sentenced to death, but her history with Mordred complicates matters. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E11TheDrawingOfTheDark}} The Drawing of the Dark]]''.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: With Mordred.
* DefiantToTheEnd: She refuses to repent of her crimes against Camelot, and on both occasions in which Arthur sentences her to death, she rejoices in his own impending doom.
* DisposableWoman: Ultimately, she's used as the reason for Mordred turning against Arthur and Merlin.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: She demonstrates no fear as she's marched to the gallows, but rather considers her death a necessary development in the fall of Arthur.
* GreyAndGreyMorality: She honestly believes that Arthur is a tyrant and that what she's doing is right.
* HeadbuttOfLove: With Mordred.
* HonourBeforeReason: She choses to die rather than repent of actions that she doesn't believe are crimes.
* IKissYourHand: She kisses Mordred's hand before going to her death.
* InTheHood: She initally conceals her identity under a hood.
* LastSecondChance: Arthur offers her one. She rejects it.
* PlotTriggeringDeath: It begins the DisasterDominoes that lead into the two-part GrandFinale.
* PublicExecution: She's hanged in the courtyard outside the castle.
* TheReasonYouSuckSpeech: Gives one to Arthur, reminding him of his maltreatment of her people.
* SmallRoleBigImpact: She appears in one episode, yet is the impetus Mordred needs to turn on Arthur (and [[spoiler:eventually kill him]]).
* WoundedGazelleGambit: To get close enough to Arthur.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: She tries to assassinate Arthur because he's the king of a land that has relentlessly persecuted her people for over a decade.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: How she sees herself.
** WouldNotShootACivilian: Heavily averted. She considers ''everyone'' in Camelot to be a legitimate target and has no remorse over killing them. Arthur, a firm believer in UsefulNotes/TheLawsAndCustomsOfWar considers this to be unforgiveable.
*** Though technically she never actually harms a civilian. She helps attack a convoy of soldiers that was delivering weapons to Camelot, and later kills a castle guard that was preventing her escape. See GreyAndGreyMorality.
! Eira (Creator/ErinRichards)
A devious woman (yeah, another one) who is sent by Morgana to infiltrate Camelot as a spy, using her feminine wiles and a show of helplessness to gather information. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E12TheDiamondOfTheDayPartI}} The Diamond of the Day Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E13TheDiamondOfTheDayPartII}} II]]''.
* BeautyIsBad: She's lovely enough to catch Gwaine's attention, but is working for Morgana the whole time.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: She pretends to be a DistressedDamsel in order to pass on secrets to Morgana.
* DecoyDamsel: Fakes her own distress in order to be granted access to Camelot.
* FemmeFataleSpy: She's a spy for Morgana and seduces Gwaine in order to get closer to the seat of power.
* FlatCharacter: She's given no motivation or depth whatsoever, and after five solid seasons of beautiful, treacherous women that use wiles to deceive the menfolk, she elicited more than few eye-rolls from the audience.
* HoneyTrap: Uses her attractiveness to gain Gwaine's trust.
* InnocentBlueEyes: Which she uses to great effect.
* LastEpisodeNewCharacter: She's introduced in the show's second-to-last episode (which is technically a two-parter).
* PublicExecution: She's hanged on Guinevere's orders in the courtyard outside the castle.
* RescueRomance: With Gwaine. {{Subverted}} as she's a DecoyDamsel.
* TheVamp: The honourable Gwaine completely falls for those no-good feminine wiles.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Other Allies]]
! Will (Creator/JoeDempsie)
[[quoteright:178:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/will_1826.bmp]]
[-"Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use it to protect your friends and family?"-]
Merlin's ChildhoodFriend who remains in Ealdor after Merlin travels to Camelot. He participates in the battle against the local warlord Kanen to defend his home. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS01E10TheMomentOfTruth}} The Moment of Truth]]''.
* BackToBackBadasses: With Merlin
* ChildhoodFriends: With Merlin
* TheComplainerIsAlwaysWrong: Is the only Ealdor villager to insist they should leave their homes instead of defending their village, and the only main character to die by the credits.
* ForgottenFallenFriend: He's never mentioned again after his one and only episode.
* HeroicSacrifice: He takes a bullet (or rather, an arrow) meant for Arthur.
* ManHug: With Merlin when he returns to Ealdor.
* MuggleBestFriend: Is Merlin's [[ChildhoodFriends Childhood Friend]] who knows about his magic despite having none himself.
* SacrificialLamb: A semi-important character who dies heroically in defence of Arthur's life.
* ScrewThisImOuttaHere: On realizing that his village stands little chance of winning against the bandits, only to...
** ChangedMyMindKid: ... inevitably come back just in the nick of time.
* SecretKeeper: He knows all about Merlin's secret, and when Arthur suspects the use of magic in the defence of Ealdor, he takes the blame just before dying to protect said secret.
* UnluckyChildhoodFriend: In the platonic sense. (Maybe).
! Alice (Pauline Collins)
[[quoteright:196:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/alice_2263.bmp]]
[-'''Gaius''': "Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person I've ever known."-]
A gifted healer who supplements her natural talent with magic. She and Gaius were once engaged to be married before the Great Purge forced her to flee Camelot. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E09LoveInTheTimeOfDragons}} Love In The Time of Dragons]]''.
* BittersweetEnding: She escapes with her life, but she and Gaius are parted - presumably for good.
* CuteWitch: So what if she's over sixty? Look at her! She's still adorable.
* HealingHands: It's stated that she has a gift for healing.
* InformedAbility: Gaius states that she's more powerful and naturally gifted than he is, but she spends the entire episode under the thrall of the Manticore. Furthermore, all her renowned healing abilities happen off-screen.
* TheMedic: Her chosen career in life. though it's something of an InformedAbility.
* MindControlEyes: When under the control of the Manticore, her eyes appear as totally black.
* NewOldFlame: To Gaius.
* PetMonstrosity: The Manticore
* DecemberDecemberRomance: With Gaius
! Gilli (Harry Melling)
[[quoteright:209:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/GILLI_428.bmp]]
[-"I'm not going to apologize for who I am!"-]
A young man with a RingOfPower who arrives in Camelot in search of honour and glory. After befriending Merlin, he goes through a surprisingly complex StoryArc over the course of his single episode appearance. He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS03E11TheSorcerersShadow}} The Sorcerer's Shadow]]''.
* ARealManIsAKiller: Suffers from this delusion. When he actually goes through with killing someone, he finds it's not at all to his liking.
* BrokenPedestal: {{Inverted}} in regards to his father. He begins by remembering him as a weak man who never used his abilities to their full extent, but eventually comes to a fuller understanding of how he lived his life.
* CastingGag: Harry Melling is best known as playing a magic-fearing Muggle in the ''Film/HarryPotter'' films.
* DudeWheresMyRespect: After being shunned and bullied all his life, this is his key motivation -- and he can't understand it when Merlin doesn't approve of his actions.
* {{Foil}}: To Merlin -- another young man with magic he's forced to keep a secret, but who choses to utilize his abilties in very different ways.
* IJustWantToBeSpecial: The second half of his motivation, in wanting to make a name for himself.
* ItsAllAboutMe: ZigZaggingTrope. He makes plenty of decisions over the course of the episode, both selfish and unselfish.
* MagicRing: This is the source of his abilities.
* MyGodWhatHaveIDone: After killing Nollar.
* SecretKeeper: To Merlin.
* TearsOfRemorse: When Merlin demonstrates his magical powers to him.
! Alator (Gary Lewis)
[[quoteright:234:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/6_5_7721.jpg]]
A HighPriest of the Catha, a sect of wizards who specialize in mind control and psychic torture. Alator is hired by Morgana to seek out the identity of the mysterious "Emrys." He appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E07TheSecretSharer}} The Secret Sharer]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''.
* TheAtoner: He refers to his days as a torturer as "not something to be proud of" in his second appearance.
* BadassLongRobe: Wears a long robe that swishes dramatically as he walks.
* BaldMystic: He's a bald, powerful wizard. Overlaps with ChromeDomePsi because he specializes in mind control and psychic torture, but his ability is portrayed as more magical than an innate psychic power.
* TheBusCameBack: He returns in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS05E10TheKindnessOfStrangers}} The Kindness of Strangers]]''...
** BackForTheDead: ... only to be killed by Morgana.
* DefiantToTheEnd: Refuses to assist Morgana in her schemes right up until her death.
* EvilSorcerer: {{Subverted}}. He's introduced as a sinister threat to Merlin, only to reveal himself as loyal to Emrys.
* FaceDeathWithDignity: Morgana, despite all her efforts, never does manage to break him and he tells her to her face that no matter what she does, she will never find Emrys and he will pass to the other world happy in the knowledge that she will be defeated no matter what she does.
* HeelFaceTurn: Sort of. He's actually a fairly neutral character, though we're initially led to believe that he's an EvilSorcerer in league with Morgana. On finding out that Merlin is the mysterious Emrys, he declares his loyalty to him.
* HighPriest: Identifies as the HighPriest of a sect of wizards that specializes in mind control.
* KneelBeforeFrodo: Or in this case, Merlin.
* MagicStaff: One of the few magical users on the show to wield a staff that doubles as a walking stick.
* NeckSnap: How Morgana kills him.
* NotAfraidToDie: Explicitly so.
* PlayingWithFire: He can conjure up magical fireballs.
* PurpleIsPowerful: He wears purple robes.
* SecretKeeper: One of the few who discovers Merlin's secret and survives to keep it ([[BackForTheDead at least until his second appearance]]).
* SuddenSequelDeathSyndrome: His second appearance on the show ends with his death.
* SurprisinglySuddenDeath: Morgana unceremoniously snaps his neck with magic.
* TortureTechnician: Morgana hires him to extract information from Gaius.
* ViolentGlaswegian: This goes without saying considering he's a WarriorMonk played by Scotsman Gary Lewis.
* WarriorMonk: He's a deeply religious man who also knows how to defend himself.
* WeWillMeetAgain: To Merlin. {{Inverted}} in that he doesn't mean it as a threat. And then {{subverted}} considering they never do.
* YouAreNotAlone: Says this to Merlin.
! Tristan and Isolde (Creator/BenDaniels and Creator/MirandaRaison)
[[quoteright:216:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/35-1_6632.jpg]]
[-"Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot."-]
A pair of smugglers (and lovers) who don't think highly of Camelot or its King, but who decide to throw in their lot with Arthur after he and Merlin save Isolde's life. They appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E12TheSwordInTheStonePartI}} The Sword in the Stone Part I]]'' and ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS04E13TheSwordInTheStonePartII}} II]]''.
* ActionGirl: Isolde fluctuates between this and a FauxActionGirl before being [[spoiler:KilledOffForReal]].
* BackToBackBadasses: See picture.
* BadassLongcoat: Tristan
* BattleCouple: They go into battle together and fight in tandem.
* BetaCouple: They serve as the catalyst for getting Arthur and Gwen back together..
* [[CheshireCatGrin Cheshire Cat Grins]]: Each of them have rather unsettling smiles.
* TheCynic: Tristan
* [[EleventhHourRanger Eleventh Hour Rangers]]: Introduced at the end of season four, chose to team up with Arthur after he's proven his worth to them.
* {{Expy}}: According to writer Julian Jones, they are based on ''Film/MrAndMrsSmith2005''.
* GoodBadGirl: Isolde, an outlaw and smuggler who still does the right thing when called upon.
* [[LovableRogue Lovable Rogues]]: They give this vibe.
* OutlawCouple: They're a couple of smugglers who live outside the law.
* Literature/TristanAndIseult: InNameOnly
* UglyGuyHotWife: Comparatively speaking.
* [[UnexpectedCharacter Unexpected Characters]]: All things considered, their appearance in the show was a bit random.
* VasquezAlwaysDies: Isolde
[[/folder]]
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* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight the Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
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* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of the [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight the Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
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* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
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* CompositeCharacter: A minor example in her debut. She takes the role of [[Literature/SirGawainAndTheGreenKnight the Green Knight]] of Arthurian legend who challenges the hero to place their head on a chopping block as a SecretTestOfCharacter, though here it is Arthur rather than Gawain.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
* TheCorrupter: Seduces Morgana to her cause.
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* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's one of only four villains in the series to be more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeu, Cornealius Sigan and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
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* ActionGirl: So much that she can best ''Arthur'', the best swordsman in Camelot, in a duel. She's one of only four villains in the series to be more powerful than Merlin, the others being Nimeu, Nimeuh, Cornealius Sigan and the troll who masquerades as Lady Catrina.
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* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
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* OnlyMostlyDead: [[spoiler:Apparently killed in the season 3 finale, but she comes back in season 4. Given her mutated mutilated face, it's clear that she and Morgana went to extreme lengths to keep her alive.]]
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* WellIntentionedExtremist
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* WellIntentionedExtremist
WeakButSkilled: Downplayed, as Gaius mentions that her magic ''is'' very powerful, but her magic is nowhere near as strong as Merlin's or her half-sister Morgana's, who are both some variety of TheChosenOne. However, she has a lifetime of experience and training, and her cunning and political maneuvering make her an enemy who can't be be dealt with through sheer force.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a full-scale war on Camelot.
* WellIntentionedExtremist: In series 2 she's mostly focused on assassinating Uther to end his genocidal regime against magic. It's only after those attempts are repeatedly thwarted by Merlin that she begins planning a full-scale war on Camelot.
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Overprotective Dad is no longer a trope.
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* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her OverprotectiveDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
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* ManipulativeBastard: Puts Arthur and Vivian under a love spell, knowing that her OverprotectiveDad BoyfriendBlockingDad will immediately target Arthur for the percieved insult.
* BoyfriendBlockingDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
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* OverprotectiveDad: Even ''without'' Vivian acting strangely under the LovePotion, he's hypersensitive to anyone paying untoward attention to her. This is precisely what King Alined is counting on when he sets up his BatmanGambit.
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Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her OverprotectiveDad. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
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Lady Vivian is the bratty daughter of King Olaf. Accompanying him to the peace talks hosted at Camelot, she becomes the target of a love spell in an attempt to disrupt the proceedings by playing on the emotions of her OverprotectiveDad.[[DotingParent Doting Dad]]. She appeared in ''[[{{Recap/MerlinS02E10SweetDreams}} Sweet Dreams]]''.
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* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's an OverprotectiveDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
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* DaddysGirl: She clearly has her father wrapped around her little finger, as he's an OverprotectiveDad a BoyfriendBlockingDad that otherwise indulges her every whim.
* KnightTemplarParent: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
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* OverprotectiveDad: Everything he does is for his daughter, up to and including cold-blooded murder.
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Does Not Like Shoes has been renamed and redefined to focus on characters that explicitly or implicitly state a preference for going barefoot. Removing misuse
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* DoesNotLikeShoes: Has to be told to put them on, she does so begrudgingly.
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%%* KnightTemplarBigBrother
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in universe version
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* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShipSinking sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.
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* BurpingContest: When Merlin magically forces Arthur to burp repeatedly in front of her in an effort to turn her off and [[ShipSinking [[ShippingTorpedo sink the ship]], she instead interprets it as a challenge and happily fires back with an enormous belch of her own.