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The History of the Kings of Britain: A Comprehensive Examination of the Legendary Rulers of Early Britain

Branson Carter

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Published in The History Of The Kings Of Britain

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The History of the Kings of Britain

by Geoffrey of Monmouth

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1820 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	278 pages

The History of the Kings of Britain, also known as the Historia Regum Britanniae, is a seminal work of British literature that chronicles the legendary rulers of Britain from its mythical origins to the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons. Compiled by the Welsh cleric Geoffrey of Monmouth around 1136, this captivating historical narrative has exerted a profound influence on British culture, serving as the inspiration for countless works of art, literature, and music.

The Legendary Origins of Britain

The History of the Kings of Britain begins with the Trojan prince Brutus, who, according to Geoffrey of Monmouth, founded the city of New Troy (later known as London) in the 12th century BC. The narrative then traces the lineage of Brutus's descendants, who ruled Britain for centuries, including the legendary King Arthur and the wise wizard Merlin.

One of the most enduring figures in British mythology, King Arthur is depicted in the Historia Regum Britanniae as a valiant and noble ruler who united the Britons against their enemies. He is said to have established the Knights of the Round Table, a fellowship of the bravest and most virtuous knights in the land.

Geoffrey of Monmouth and the Historical Basis of the Historia Regum Britanniae

Geoffrey of Monmouth's account of British history is a blend of fact and fiction. While some of the figures and events he describes are based on historical sources, others are clearly mythological in nature. Geoffrey himself admits in the preface to his work that he is relying on "old books of British history" as his sources, but he does not provide any specific references to these sources.

Despite its uncertain historical accuracy, the Historia Regum Britanniae has been widely accepted as a valuable source of information about early British history. Its vivid storytelling and captivating characters have made it a beloved work of literature for centuries, and it continues to inspire writers and artists to this day.

The Impact of the Historia Regum Britanniae on British Culture

The Historia Regum Britanniae has had a profound impact on British culture. It has provided the inspiration for numerous works of literature, including the Arthurian romances of the Middle Ages, the Elizabethan plays of William Shakespeare, and the Victorian novels of Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

The Historia Regum Britanniae has also been used to justify political claims and bolster national identity. During the Middle Ages, British kings and queens often invoked the authority of the Historia Regum Britanniae to legitimize their rule. In the 19th century, the work was used by British nationalists to promote the idea of a unified and glorious British past.

The History of the Kings of Britain: A Legacy of Myth and History

The History of the Kings of Britain is a complex and fascinating work that has shaped British culture for centuries. It is a blend of fact and fiction, myth and history, that has captured the imagination of countless generations. As a seminal work of British literature, the Historia Regum Britanniae continues to inspire and entertain, providing a glimpse into the legendary origins of a nation.