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The Best Episodes of Merlin

Every episode of Merlin ranked from best to worst. Let's dive into the Best Episodes of Merlin!

Binge this in 1d 23h•Peaking at 8.7/10

The unlikely friendship between Merlin, a young man gifted with extraordinary magical powers, and Prince Arthur, heir to the crown of Camelot.

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  1. #1 Fan Favorite
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    Merlin Season 3 Episode 13 - The Coming of Arthur (2)
    8.7/10(15 votes)

    #1 - The Coming of Arthur (2)

    S3:E13

    Will Arthur be able to save Camelot from the evil Morgana? Morgana, newly crowned as Queen of Camelot, begins a reign of terrible evil over the innocent citizens of the kingdom. Counting on Morgause and her immortal army at her command all hope seems lost for Uther, who is forced to witness how his kingdom crumble under the unimaginable cruelty of his own daughter. Meanwhile, on the outskirts of Camelot, Arthur recovers his strength and plans a counter attack with the help of a few loyals at his side: Gwaine, Lancelot, Elyan and Percival. However, Merlin is aware that not even a skilful warrior like Arthur can defeat an immortal foe without magic. Will he be able to reclaim the great sword Excalibur from the Lake of Avalon in time to save the lives of those he cares the most about?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  2. Merlin Season 2 Episode 13 - The Last Dragonlord (2)
    8.6/10(14 votes)

    #2 - The Last Dragonlord (2)

    S2:E13

    The Great Dragon is finally free. Full of rage, he attacks Camelot with pitiless intensity. The castle is crumbling and Arthur's men cannot hold out much longer but only a Dragonlord can kill a dragon and Uther wiped them all out years ago. Or did he? Gaius admits one such man could still be alive and in hiding. The last Dragonlord is the key to Merlin's own past as well as the future of Camelot, but will Arthur and Merlin find Balinor in time to save the kingdom?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  3. Merlin Season 4 Episode 2 - The Darkest Hour (2)
    8.3/10(15 votes)

    #3 - The Darkest Hour (2)

    S4:E2

    The kingdom is on the brink of collapse and Morgana poised to strike, in the final part of this opening episode of the fantasy drama. As Lancelot races back to Camelot with the dying Merlin, Arthur must continue on his mission to vanquish the Dorocha without them. Though the Knights know their journey to the Isle of the Blessed is fraught with danger, none could anticipate the sacrifice Arthur intends to make there. Friendship and loyalty are tested to the limit, but in the end, it's the power of love that changes all their lives for ever.

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  4. Merlin Season 4 Episode 3 - The Wicked Day
    8.3/10(15 votes)

    #4 - The Wicked Day

    S4:E3

    The mighty citadel is buzzing in anticipation of the Prince's birthday celebrations, as the fantasy drama continues. But Arthur's old adversary, Odin, promises to ensure this is one party Camelot will never forget - for among the assembling guests lurks a deadly assassin set to strike. As the dust settles, Camelot is left devastated. Just how far is Merlin prepared to go to put things right; would he really risk everything and reveal his secret?

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Howard Overman

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  5. Merlin Season 4 Episode 13 - The Sword in the Stone (2)
    8.3/10(11 votes)

    #5 - The Sword in the Stone (2)

    S4:E13

    Morgana and Helios have successfully captured Camelot, and Merlin and Arthur are outlaws on the run, in the last episode in this season of Merlin. Trapped in Ealdor with a ruthless army closing in, their situation becomes desperate. Arthur must take control before Camelot is lost forever… But faced with Agravaine’s betrayal and the strength of Morgana’s force, the young King has lost his conviction. Only Merlin can restore his faith, and only an extraordinary act can prove to the King that he was born to rule. Will the young warlock convince Arthur before his dreams of Albion fall to pieces?

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  6. Merlin Season 1 Episode 11 - The Labyrinth of Gedref
    8.2/10(15 votes)

    #6 - The Labyrinth of Gedref

    S1:E11

    Arthur brings a curse upon Camelot. Eager to help his people, he asks Anhora for advice. But is he brave enough to face the challenges ahead?

    Director:Stuart Orme
    Writer:Howard Overman

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    The 20 WORST Episodes of Merlin

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  7. Merlin Season 2 Episode 8 - The Sins of the Father
    8.2/10(13 votes)

    #7 - The Sins of the Father

    S2:E8

    Arthur is challenged to a duel by a mysterious warrior. Arthur and Merlin then find themselves on a quest on Morgause's behalf. A dark secret is discovered by Arthur that could change Camelot forever.

    Director:Metin Hüseyin
    Writer:Howard Overman

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  8. Merlin Season 4 Episode 12 - The Sword in the Stone (1)
    8.2/10(11 votes)

    #8 - The Sword in the Stone (1)

    S4:E12

    Morgana is now the head of a vast Southron army and a deadly net is closing around Camelot. After the sorceress strikes everyone is forced to run for their lives including Arthur. It is down to Merlin to try and save Arthur from Morgana's clutches.

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Jake Michie

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  9. Merlin Season 1 Episode 9 - Excalibur
    8.1/10(15 votes)

    #9 - Excalibur

    S1:E9

    Uther's past comes back to haunt him as a mysterious Black Knight interrupts Arthur's coming-of-age celebrations, throwing down his gauntlet and challenging the Knights of Camelot to combat. The Black Knight, seemingly unstoppable, makes easy work of his combatants. But who is the Black Knight, and why is Uther so uneasy?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  10. Merlin Season 1 Episode 4 - The Poisoned Chalice
    8.0/10(16 votes)

    #10 - The Poisoned Chalice

    S1:E4

    With her sights set firmly on Merlin, Nimueh tricks him into drinking from a poisoned chalice, and he falls dangerously ill. Arthur ventures forth deep into the forest of Balor to find the antidote, but little does he know that he's walking into a trap

    Director:Ed Fraiman
    Writer:Ben Vanstone

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  11. Merlin Season 3 Episode 12 - The Coming of Arthur (1)
    8.0/10(15 votes)

    #11 - The Coming of Arthur (1)

    S3:E12

    Arthur and Merlin embark on a dangerous mission to capture the Cup of Life, a powerful magical artifact that carries the gift of immortality. However, before they are able to retrieve the Cup they fall prey to Jarl, an unscrupulous slave trader. They manage to escape when a trusted friend comes to their rescue but with Jarl's help, the Cup of Life ends up in Morgause's hands. Now that the dreadful sisters count on an immortal army at their disposal, will Morgause and Morgana overthrow Uther once and for all?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Jake Michie

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  12. Merlin Season 2 Episode 7 - The Witchfinder
    7.9/10(13 votes)

    #12 - The Witchfinder

    S2:E7

    In his determination to rule magic out of Camelot forever, Uther hires the services of Aredian, a terrifying witch hunter who is most feared due to the fact that he stops at nothing in the quest to uncover all and every kind of sorcery. Even though no one is under direct suspicion, several people in Camelot are afraid that the witch hunter could see straight through them: Morgana is worried that Uther might have her executed and Gaius is concerned for the fate of Merlin and his own, since caring for the young warlock is considered crime and treason. Will all three be able to escape a dreadful fate?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Jake Michie

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  13. Merlin Season 2 Episode 12 - The Fires of Idirsholas (1)
    7.9/10(14 votes)

    #13 - The Fires of Idirsholas (1)

    S2:E12

    For the first time in over 300 years the fires of Idirsholas burn and Gaius is worried that a sorcerer has revived the deadly Knights of Medhir. Morgause returns and is determined to end Uther's reign at Camelot.

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  14. Merlin Season 3 Episode 8 - The Eye of the Phoenix
    7.9/10(15 votes)

    #14 - The Eye of the Phoenix

    S3:E8

    Arthur embarks alone on a quest to prove himself worthy of the Camelot throne by retrieving the Golden Trident from the Fisher King. With the Prince beyond the protection of the citadel, Morgana takes the opportunity to use her dark magic. She gives him a precious bracelet that contains a Phoenix Eye, insisting that he wears it at all times for protection. However, the magical jewel takes away Arthur's life force and he is left defenceless in the Fisher King's perilous realm. With the help of Gwaine, will Merlin be able to reach Arthur in time and fulfil his own quest to protect the future king of Camelot?

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  15. Merlin Season 4 Episode 1 - The Darkest Hour (1)
    7.9/10(15 votes)

    #15 - The Darkest Hour (1)

    S4:E1

    Evil sorceress Morgana summons mighty gatekeeper the Cailleach, who opens a door to another world from which hellish creatures pour forth. As Arthur and his loyal knights take up arms, Merlin discovers the only thing that will stop them is an unimaginable sacrifice.

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  16. Merlin Season 5 Episode 12 - The Diamond of the Day (1)
    7.9/10(11 votes)

    #16 - The Diamond of the Day (1)

    S5:E12

    High in the mountains, a great horde gathers; Morgana prepares for war with a vengeful Mordred at her side. Merlin feels the weight of his destiny like never before as the ancient prophecies play out with terrifying accuracy. But before he can save his beloved Camelot, he must save himself. For it is not just the kingdom Morgana wishes to destroy – it is also Emrys.

    Director:Justin Molotnikov
    Writer:Jake Michie

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  17. Merlin Season 3 Episode 1 - The Tears of Uther Pendragon (1)
    7.8/10(14 votes)

    #17 - The Tears of Uther Pendragon (1)

    S3:E1

    A year after her disappearance and when almost all hope is lost, Morgana returns to Camelot. While Merlin is afraid she might remember the circumstances of her disappearance and give him away in front of the king, a delighted Uther announces a banquet to celebrate. However, soon afterwards evil magic starts to take hold of the king's mind, putting the safety of Camelot at risk as he is consumed with hallucinations and enemies reach his door. Merlin suspects Morgana is behind the enchantment but his search for the truth puts his life in peril while Arthur is forced to take control and face new foes on his own. Will they succeed to rescue the king and Camelot from destruction?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  18. Merlin Season 3 Episode 10 - Queen of Hearts
    7.8/10(15 votes)

    #18 - Queen of Hearts

    S3:E10

    When Uther banishes Gwen from the kingdom, Arthur resolves to leave Camelot with her.

    Director:Ashley Way
    Writer:Howard Overman

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  19. Merlin Season 5 Episode 11 - The Drawing of the Dark
    7.8/10(10 votes)

    #19 - The Drawing of the Dark

    S5:E11

    Mordred finds himself torn between loyalty and love, but little does he realise that the path he chooses will shape Camelot's destiny. As the drums of war beat ever louder, a desperate Merlin feels trapped by the cruel circle of fate - is he powerless to stop his dreams of Albion from crumbling to dust?

    Director:Declan O'Dwyer
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  20. Merlin Season 1 Episode 3 - The Mark of Nimueh
    7.7/10(16 votes)

    #20 - The Mark of Nimueh

    S1:E3

    A deadly plague spreads through Camelot. When it seems that sorcery can be the only possible explanation, Merlin and Gaius race to find a cure, while Gwen is arrested and sentenced to death for practising witchcraft.

    Director:James Hawes
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  21. Merlin Season 1 Episode 5 - Lancelot
    7.7/10(16 votes)

    #21 - Lancelot

    S1:E5

    Merlin is saved from a terrifying winged beast by a heroic stranger- a young man named Lancelot, who dreams of becoming a Knight of Camelot. In order to thank him, Merlin provides falsified records of Lancelot's noble birth and Lancelot is accepted. However, with the winged beast- discovered to be a Griffin- still on the loose, Merlin's decision could have far-reaching consequences not just for Lancelot but for Camelot...

    Director:Ed Fraiman
    Writer:Jake Michie

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  22. Merlin Season 2 Episode 1 - The Curse of Cornelius Sigan
    7.7/10(18 votes)

    #22 - The Curse of Cornelius Sigan

    S2:E1

    New servant Cedric muscles in on Merlin's position as Arthur's right-hand man, and turns the prince against his loyal friend. Merlin is convinced the slippery newcomer is up to something, and he is right - Cedric is a conman and a thief who is after a magnificent jewel, recently unearthed in a tomb far beneath Camelot. Little does he know, his precious prize is more dangerous than he could possibly imagine. Camelot has never been more vulnerable, but how can Merlin make things right when, thanks to Cedric, he might have lost Arthur's friendship for good? Merlin faces the prospect of turning to the one creature he swore he would never trust again - The Great Dragon.

    Director:David Moore
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  23. Merlin Season 3 Episode 2 - The Tears of Uther Pendragon (2)
    7.7/10(14 votes)

    #23 - The Tears of Uther Pendragon (2)

    S3:E2

    With the help of the Great Dragon, Merlin manages to return to Camelot only to find out that is it on the verge of invasion: Morgause and Cenred have teamed up and plot against a weakened Uther. Cenred's initial reluctance is won over by the fact that they count on an ally within Camelot walls who will ensure the castle is taken. Uther is unable to rule which forces Arthur to step up front and defend the citadel agains Cenred's powerful army. With the help of Morgause and to make things worse, Morgana plays a deadly card and summons a skeleton army to wreak havoc within the castle walls. Camelot's fate rests once again on Arthur's shoulders and Merlin's magic as they fight in their own way to hold off both an army of the living and an army of the dead. Will they manage to succeed?

    Director:Jeremy Webb
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  24. Merlin Season 3 Episode 4 - Gwaine
    7.7/10(14 votes)

    #24 - Gwaine

    S3:E4

    Merlin and Arthur find themselves outnumbered in a bar fight but an enigmatic young man helps them win. The man’s name is Gwaine and he risks his own life to protect Arthur but during his act of bravery he is seriously wounded. The Prince decides to take him back to Camelot where he could make a recovery with Gaius' help. Gwaine immediately gets to work: drinking, flirting with the ladies and causing lots of trouble for Merlin who has been instructed to look after him. However, when two unscrupulous knights seem to plot to murder the Prince, will Merlin and Gwaine be able to stop them and save Arthur?

    Director:David Moore
    Writer:Julian Jones

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  25. Merlin Season 3 Episode 5 - The Crystal Cave
    7.7/10(15 votes)

    #25 - The Crystal Cave

    S3:E5

    After an unexpected meeting with the enigmatic old sorcerer Taliesin, the wizard takes Merlin to the crystal cave allowing him to witness a glimpse of the future. However, this gesture turns out to be more of a curse than a gift when, much to his horror, Merlin sees Morgana set to kill Uther. The young warlock knows he must do his best to try and stop the future from playing out. But changing the pages of destiny is a very dangerous game and his actions end up having fatal consequences. With the whole of Camelot in a state of grief, will Merlin be able to change the course of destiny and undo the damage he has caused, or will it be too late?

    Director:Alice Troughton
    Writer:Julian Jones

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Best Episodes Summary

"The Coming of Arthur (2)" is the best rated episode of "Merlin". It scored 8.7/10 based on 15 votes. Directed by Jeremy Webb and written by Julian Jones, it aired on 12/4/2010. This episode scored 0.1 points higher than the second highest rated, "The Last Dragonlord (2)".