Le Morte d'Arthur book cover

Cover via Open Library

Movie · 1981

Is Excalibur based on a book?

Quick answer

Yes. Excalibur is based on the book Le Morte d'Arthur by Thomas Malory (1485).

The movie was released in 1981.

The book behind Excalibur

Le Morte d'Arthur cover

Le Morte d'Arthur

by Thomas Malory · first published 1485 · chivalric romance

1485 reworking of existing tales about King Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory.

Other adaptations of Le Morte d'Arthur

Common questions

Is Excalibur based on a book?

Yes. Excalibur is based on the book Le Morte d'Arthur by Thomas Malory (1485).

Who wrote the book Excalibur is based on?

Le Morte d'Arthur was written by Thomas Malory and first published in 1485.

Should I read the book before watching?

If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read Le Morte d'Arthur before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the movie.

Facts from Wikidata (CC0). See also Wikipedia.