A Myths & Legends book by Daniel Mersey

Last week I brought a review of Mythology of the British Isles. This reminded me of the excellent Osprey series – Myths & Legends – and in particular King Arthur. I’ve not reviewed these on Woehammer.com so it was a great opportunity to re-read it and bring it to the attention of our Patreons and readers!

From the Book

Despite his enduring popularity, King Arthur remains the most enigmatic of Britain’s legendary heroes. In this new book, author Dan Mersey retells the great stories of Arthur, while exploring the different facets of Arthurian myth, from the numerous, conflicting theories of his historical origin, through the tales of Welsh folklore and Medieval romance, and concluding with an examination of his various portrayals in the modern media. Presented with both classic and newly commissioned artwork, this book is an easy-to-read, yet highly detailed introduction to the complex body of myth and legend that surrounds Britain’s greatest hero.

Review

King Arthur has long been in consciousness of Britain, Brittany and onwards into Europe. His fame even makes him popular across the Pond.

Known for his castle at Camelot, his Round Table, and Chivalrous Knights, there is more than one King Arthur. Daniel Mersey guides us through his early appearances, the case for him being a Briton, Romano-British, and even Sumerian.

There have been many stories associated to King Arthur throughout the history of Britain, but his early tales were not written down as the ancient Britons had a oral tradition. As such, much is lost to the fog of time… a fog that Daniel Mercey tries to lift.

There are all the classic stories mentioned from the Sword in the Stone, to Excalibur and the lake. The introduction of his knights, his queen – Guinevere – and his son – Mordred. And finally his death at Modred’s hand at Camlann.

But despite there being more written stories from his time at the ROund Table, the author doesn’t forget his beginnings in Wales, Cornwall or in the north of England. Fighting Picts, Irish and Saxons, and being either a King or Warlord of the time.

It’s a very comprehensive list of the stories, and points towards other works if you want to learn more, or read the ‘originals’ for yourself.

About the Series

The series ‘Myths and Legends’ is published by Osprey Publishing. This provides the author with a wealth of superb pictures from existing Osprey titles. Add in the brilliant work of illustrator Alan Lathwell and this is a pretty book. These books are all bright and colourful and very informative. Always an interesting read.

There is also a further ‘watching. reading & gaming’ section in all the books which is a great addition by Osprey. So often books of this nature ignore other formats of story-telling but Osprey is keen to include it all.

Other books in the series include: Hercules, Troy, and Robin Hood.

Verdict

This is a superb overview of the stories of King Arthur. It includes well written and presented short pieces about each story and author. And concludes well with the question: Was Arthur Real?

Check out the full list of Book Reviews we’ve done on Woehammer here

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— Declan & Eeyore