Merlin, in mythology, originates from Welsh and Celtic traditions as Myrddin Wyllt, a wild prophet who gained supernatural foresight after going mad from battle. Later, Geoffrey of Monmouth reimagined him as King Arthur’s advisor and magician, shaping the legend we know today. Unlike later depictions of kindly wizards, Merlin was often a manipulator and trickster, using his magic and prophecy to influence Britain’s fate. He was also said to be the son of a demon or Incubus, which granted him immense magical power. However, despite his wisdom, Merlin’s story almost always ends in entrapment. In most versions of the legend,
he is tricked and sealed away by Morgan le Fay or Nimue (Viviane), depending on the source. This marks him as a tragic figure, responsible for creating Camelot but powerless to save it, vanishing before Arthur’s fall.