56 pages 1 hour read

Geoffrey of Monmouth

The History of the Kings of Britain

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1136

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

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.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

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 this

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.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: European