I'm not sure specifically as it's not a widely known common story. But generally, it might be about a badger who has some sort of important role in a past and future context. Maybe the badger was a great leader in the past and is prophesied to be one again in the future.
Since I don't know the story well, the main character is probably the badger. There may also be other animals that interact with the badger, like other forest animals such as squirrels, rabbits or deer, but this is just speculation.
Well, the themes in 'the once and future king story' are complex. Leadership is a big one. Arthur's journey from a young boy to a king shows different aspects of leadership. Then there's the theme of friendship. His relationships with Merlin, Guinevere, and the knights play important roles. And don't forget about the idea of justice. Arthur tries to create a just kingdom.
Well, King Arthur is the obvious most important character. He is the once and future king after all. But Merlin is almost as important. He has a great influence on Arthur's upbringing and the development of Camelot. Guinevere is also vital. Her relationship with Arthur and Lancelot shapes a lot of the story's drama. Then there are the knights like Sir Gawain. They are important for showing the code of chivalry.
The themes include the cycle of violence and the attempt to break it. Arthur tries to create a new order with the Knights of the Round Table to end the feudal and violent ways of the past. And the theme of love is there too, in different forms - love between friends, like Arthur and Merlin, and romantic love which also affects the characters' actions and decisions.
King Arthur is obviously a very important character. He is the central figure around whom the story revolves. Merlin is also crucial as he is Arthur's mentor, guiding him with his magic and wisdom. Then there are the Knights of the Round Table like Lancelot, who is known for his great skills in combat and his complex relationship with Arthur and Queen Guinevere.
One of the main themes is the concept of chivalry. It shows what it means to be a noble knight through the characters' actions and decisions. Another theme is power and leadership, as seen in Arthur's journey to become and be a king. Also, the novel explores the idea of fate and destiny, how Arthur is fated to be the once and future king.
Well, in 'the once and future king fantasy novels', there are themes like the passage of time. We see the evolution of the kingdom over time. Morality is another theme. Characters have to make moral choices, like Arthur when he's making laws for his kingdom. And friendship is a theme as well. Arthur has his circle of knights, and their friendships are important for the stability and success of the realm.