56 pages • 1 hour read
The History of the Kings of Britain
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Book Brief
The History of the Kings of Britain
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1136384
Book • Nonfiction
Britain • 12th Century
1136
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth, originally composed in Latin, recounts a pseudo-historical account of Britain’s kings from its mythical founding by Trojan descendants led by Brutus in 1200 BCE to the Britons' departure in the seventh century CE, including stories of King Arthur and Merlin and culminating with the Saxon domination of the island.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Informative
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
7,085 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Geoffrey of Monmouth's The History of the Kings of Britain is praised for its imaginative storytelling and foundational impact on Arthurian legends. However, it is critiqued for historical inaccuracies and anachronisms. Readers should approach it as a work of medieval literature rather than factual history. Its vibrant narrative remains influential in medieval studies and literature.
Who Should Read The History of the Kings of Britain?
Readers who revel in medieval legends, enjoy historical narratives with mythical elements, and appreciate works akin to Le Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory or Beowulf will find The History of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth deeply engaging.
7,085 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
384
Book • Nonfiction
Britain • 12th Century
1136
Adult
18+ years
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