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.

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.

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.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Informative / Adventurous / Bittersweet

- The History of the Kings of Britain is credited with popularizing the legend of King Arthur, although the book combines elements of history and myth, casting doubt on its historical accuracy.
- Written around 1136, the book includes a mix of fact and legend, claiming to trace the history of British kings from the mythical Trojan Brutus to the 7th century.
- Geoffrey of Monmouth's work had a significant influence on later medieval literature, with many authors drawing upon his tales of ancient Britain, despite historical inaccuracies.

Geoffrey of Monmouth

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The History of the Kings of Britain and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The History of the Kings of Britain Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Dedication

The History of the Kings of Britain Dedication Summary & Analysis

Part 1 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8 The History of the Kings of Britain Part 8 Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

The History of the Kings of Britain Key Figures

theme

Themes

The History of the Kings of Britain Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The History of the Kings of Britain Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

The History of the Kings of Britain Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The History of the Kings of Britain Essay Topics

The History of the Kings of Britain

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The History of the Kings of Britain?

Reading Age

Book Details