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The History of the Kings of Britain

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth is a mythical account of Britain's rulers from its founding by Brutus of Troy to the 7th century. It intertwines legend and history, offering tales of figures like King Arthur and Merlin. The narrative explores Britain's origins and heritage, blending historical facts with epic storytelling.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you have an interest in legendary tales of ancient Britain, including the myths of King Arthur and the history of Britain's early kings. It combines history and mythology, offering an intriguing glimpse into medieval perceptions of Britain's past.

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Traces the story of the realm from its supposed foundation by Brutus to the coming of the Saxons some two thousand years later. This title portrays legendary and semi-legendary figures such as Lear, Cymbeline, Merlin the magician and the most famous of all British heroes, King Arthur.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth is a narrative that blurs the lines between history and legend, chronicling the earliest kings of Britain.

Completed in 1136, The History of the Kings of Britain traces the story of the realm from its supposed foundation by Brutus to the coming of the Saxons some two thousand years later. The account vividly portrays legendary and semi-legendary figures such as Lear, Cymbeline, Merlin the magician, and the most famous of all British heroes, King Arthur.

This work is as much myth as it is history, and its veracity was questioned by other medieval writers. However, Geoffrey of Monmouth's powerful evocation of illustrious men and deeds captured the imagination of subsequent generations. His influence can be traced through the works of Malory, Shakespeare, Dryden, and Tennyson.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth is often celebrated for its rich narration of legendary British history, blending myth and historical elements. Critics appreciate its influence on the Arthurian legends and British historiography, though some regard its historical accuracy as questionable. The work has been praised for its imaginative storytelling and literary significance over the centuries.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140441703

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 January 1973

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Lewis Thorpe
  • Translated by Lewis Thorpe

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 285g

Pages: 384

About the Author

Very little is known of Geoffrey of Monmouth. He seems to have lived for a time in Oxford and in 1151 he became Bishop Elect of St Asaph, North Wales. He was ordained at Westminster in 1152. According to the Welsh Chronicles he died in 1155. Lewis Thorpe was Professor of French at Nottingham University from 1958 to 1977. He has published many books and articles on Arthur, both on the French and English traditions. He died in 1977.

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