“Around the table we held our places Each an equal distance from the centre Each with equal voice and equal choice To defend our lands from the Sassenach invader”

by Hugh D P McArthur FSA Scot

THE ROUND Table is one of the most enduring motifs from the Arthurian legends, a design still employed by many organisations today. Although appearing somewhat later in the Arthurian saga, first described by Wace in 1155AD, the concept is grounded in very early Celtic tradition.

In contrast to the formal rectangular table where one sat at the head, and hierarchal array took pride of place on the right hand and descended to the lesser individuals at the foot of the table, Arthur designed a Round Table of equals - an early form of democratic war council.