The History of the Kings of Britain

Name: The History of the Kings of Britain
Brand: Unknown
SKU: 9780674241367
Price: 71.99 NZD
Availability: OutOfStock

The First Variant Version

Series: Dumbarton Oaks Medieval Library

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Summary

The History of the Kings of Britain, though a work of medieval literature rather than strict history, provides a fascinating account of Britain's legendary past. It chronicles the lives and reigns of its rulers from the mythical founding by Brutus the Trojan to the Anglo-Saxon hegemony. The narrative combines elements of myth, folklore, and a blend of historical events to craft a rich tapestry of Britain's storied lineage.
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Format: Hardback

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You might enjoy this book if you have an interest in legendary British history, blending myth and reality, with tales of iconic figures like King Arthur and Merlin. Its rich narrative weaves together fantasy and history, offering an intriguing medieval perspective on the lineage and exploits of ancient British rulers.

The History of the Kings of Britain

Geoffrey of Monmouth’s History of the Kings of Britain—the earliest book to detail the legendary foundation of Britain and life of King Arthur—was widely read during the Middle Ages. This volume presents the first English translation of what may have been his source, the anonymous First Variant Version, attested in just a handful of manuscripts.

Description

Geoffrey of Monmouth's The History of the Kings of Britain—the earliest work to detail the legendary foundation of Britain by Brutus the Trojan and the life of King Arthur—was among the most widely read books throughout the Middle Ages.

Its sweeping account of the Britons began long before the Romans and challenged the leading histories of the twelfth century. Merlin, Guinevere, Mordred, Yvain, Gawain, and other popular Arthurian figures first come to life in Geoffrey's chronicle.

It was the ultimate source of tales retold in Malory's Morte d'Arthur, Shakespeare's Cymbeline and King Lear, and Tennyson's Idylls of the King.

The History survives in hundreds of manuscripts in Geoffrey's standard text. This volume presents the first English translation of what may have been his source, the anonymous First Variant Version.

This shorter and less polished Latin version of the History is attested in just a handful of manuscripts. It belonged to and was probably written by Archdeacon Walter of Oxford, who died in 1151.