Original artwork, not a still
On second thought , let’s not go to Camelot. ‘Tis a silly place.
— Monty Python and the Holy Grail · 1975
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The line gets its laugh because it has just been earned: the legendary court the whole quest was meant to fill turns out to be a cabaret, so Arthur turns back at the gates. The writers use his pomp to puncture the idea of Camelot itself. Fans quote it to wave off any grand destination that looks sillier close up.
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In context
Spoilers for Monty Python and the Holy GrailShow the scene
After the Knights Who Say Ni have demanded a shrubbery, Arthur and his knights come in sight of a castle. Arthur calls it Camelot, the knights echo him, and Patsy remarks that it is only a model. Arthur welcomes them to their new home, and the castle's knights then sing and dance in a musical number about their life there. Arthur watches, then decides to give the place a miss because it is a silly place. God then speaks from the clouds and sends them to find the Holy Grail.
Sources (2)
- Wikiquote: Monty Python and the Holy Grailsection "It's a silly place"Reference checked
- Wikipedia: Monty Python and the Holy GrailPlot summaryReference checked
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