Snake
The snake is a symbol of destiny. By striking the soldier, it sets the battle between Arthur and Mordred into motion. Mordred fights against the prophecy that was proclaimed upon his conception, but in the end it was destined to be fulfilled and no one could stop the outcome. Neither Arthur nor Mordred could stop the events once they were set in motion. This ends in the deaths of both men.
Prophecy
The prophecy is a symbol of fate. No matter what Arthur and Mordred do they cannot stop the prophecy from coming to fruition. Mordred tries to serve his father to the best of his ability. Thinking him dead, he does what he must to protect the Kingdom. Arthur tries to believe that Mordred is following his requests, but others mistrust in Mordred causes Arthur's mistrust in his son. Constantine does this so that he can claim Arthur’s Kingdom. Even when the two come to terms and prepare a truce, a snake strikes one of the soldiers and the battle proceeds showing that fate cannot be avoided.
King’s Ring
The King’s Ring is a symbol of power. When the belongings of the dead come from the battlefield, Mordred searches for the King’s ring. He knows that Arthur would only part with it in death. If Mordred has it, it signifies the King’s death and gives Mordred the power with the Queen’s backing to proclaim himself King.
Roman Tribute
The Roman Tribute is a symbol of the past. Britain, Brittany and the lands of the Franks and Saxons have broken from the Empire and wish to keep it that way. When asking for tribute, the Romans are asking them to give up their hard earned freedom. The Roman Empire is a thing of the past and no one wants to be under their thumb again.
Dragon Standard
The Dragon Standard is a symbol of Britain. Arthur carries this standard wherever he travels as a beacon of trust and justice. When the Saxons do not see the standard on Arthur’s ship when he lands after the storm, they are suspicious of his actions. The lack of the standard seems duplicitous. This leads them to attack rather than talk to the landing party.
