Geoffrey Z. Monmouthu (Books)

Geoffrey Z. Monmouthu Books

Geoffrey of Monmouth was a Welsh cleric whose work significantly shaped British historiography and the enduring popularity of King Arthur tales. He is primarily recognized for his chronicle, the History of the Kings of Britain, which weaves together historical narratives and foundational myths. Although much of his output is considered pseudo-history, his writings laid the groundwork for countless later literary interpretations of the Arthurian cycle. Geoffrey's literary contributions are thus pivotal in the transmission and evolution of British legends and lore.

The history of the Kings of Britain

384 pages
14 hours of reading

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. Vividly portraying legendary and semi-legendary figures such as Lear, Cymbeline, Merlin the magician and the most famous of all British heroes, King Arthur, it is as much myth as it is history and its veracity was questioned by other medieval writers. But Geoffrey of Monmouth's powerful evocation of illustrious men and deeds captured the imagination of subsequent generations, and his influence can be traced through the works of Malory, Shakespeare, Dryden and Tennyson.

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