Customer Reviews

King Arthur: The True Story

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An absolutely fascinating angle on the King Arthur legend. Phillips and Keatman not only propose that the story originated in central England rather than the southwest of the country as previously supposed, but they identify ruins that they are convinced was the real Camelot. This book has done more than any I have read so far to prove that Arthur was an historical figure. I have visited the place they claim was Arthur's burial site and it really is a beautiful and mysterious location. I have spoken to other British historians who tend to think that the site should be properly excavated. Although it is full of scholarly research this book is very easy to read.

Mostly flawed exploration, based on documents that they treat far more seriously than they should. It is a success, as an introductory work for new readers in this genre. It covers all the main points of the main legends. But as history? My favourite chapter, was the one on Vortigern, though it didn't reveal anything new. I always like to see this historical character gaining wider exposure in these pop-paperback pseudo-histories: the popular culture has never embraced him, as much as Arthur, Merlin, etc. This book, at least, goes someways to addressing that. Otherwise, the highpoints of the book are the maps, photos, and some great black and white drawings (page 196!). The chronology at the back of the book was useful. Some dates however, seem to differ, from author to author, on some events. But, its strength lies in following the times the events may have happened, through cultural changes, until the times they became popularized by now famous authors. If by chance, I seem harsh at all with this book, it is perhaps because I have all the books in their bibliography already.

Don't expect this book to be full of excitement. If you do that this book will be one of the worst books you will have ever read. This book is hard to follow but it helps when they put summaries at the end of each chapter. If you are looking for information about the story of king arthur I would say buy this book. If you are looking for a "history channel like" documantary that has exciting pictures and detailed descriptions I would not suggest this book.