Customer Reviews

Arthur, King of Britons: From Celtic hero to cinema icon

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From the cover: King Arthur is probably the most popular king in British history, and a man whose name is synonymous with courage, chivalry and romanticism. But is he just a myth? Arthur, King of the Britons; Arthur, the medieval legend; Arthur, the Celtic warlord; Arthur of the Pre-Raphaelites and the Arthur of the movies . . . would the real King Arthur please stand up? Mersey explores the many theories and myths surrounding this famous icon in his compelling biography.

King Arthur is a popular subject, both in fact and in fiction. There is so much material available that it can be difficult for a beginner like me to know where to start. This book has been great in giving me an overview of the material, and has also pointed me in the direction of the books that I most want to read next.

The book covers the scant evidence of a historical King Arthur, the various medieval writers and what they contributed to the legend, the more modern movies and books on King Arthur, and many of the theories as to who and what King Arthur may have actually been.

Mersey's writing is easy to read, entertaining, and the passion for his subject shines through. The information he gives appears to be balanced and comprehensive, a difficult combination to achieve with such a complicated subject.

I feel fortunate that I chanced upon this book at the beginning of my quest to learn more about King Arthur.