1. The mythical place and
time when
peace and hope converge, inspired by grandiose speeches platitudes and bromides.
2. In American contexts, the phrase "Camelot" refers to the presidency of John F.
Kennedy, as his term was
said to have potential and
promise for the future, and the period was symbolic of hope for many in the world, who were inspired by
Kennedy's speeches, vision and political policies. The period was ended by Kennedy's November 22, 1963, assassination, which is often compared to the fall of King Arthur. The lines "Don't let it be forgot, that once there was a
spot, for one brief shining moment, that was known as Camelot," from the musical Camelot, were quoted by his widow Jacqueline as being from his favorite song in the score. "There'll be great Presidents again," she added, "but there'll never be another Camelot again … it
will never be that way again."
3. Camelot is the most famous fictional castle and court associated with the legendary King Arthur. Later romance depicts it as the fantastic capital of Arthur's realm, from which he fought many of the battles and quests that made up his life. Camelot as a place is associated with ideals like justice, bravery and
truth, the virtues Arthur and his knights embody in the romances. It is absent from the early material, and its location, if it
even existed, is unknown. Thus most modern academic scholars regard it as being entirely fictional.
