Book – The Complete King Arthur

The Complete King Arthur – Many Faces, One Hero” by John Matthews, Caitlin Matthews.  Inner Traditions (2017) –

In English culture, there are few figures to challenge the stature of King Arthur.  The question of the historical basis of Arthur, and therefore all the stories that surround him, has raged for centuries.  Dozens of sites in England and Wales lay claim as the location of some part of the story.  Actual person, or legendary symbol of the archetypal king?

Whatever your position on the question, or your devotion to the stories of Arthur, this book will take you deeper into the story than ever before.  Beginning with the understanding that prior to a certain date, the name “Arthur” is essentially unknown in Britain.  So it is the legend that makes the name.  Who was Lucius Arturis Castus?  What of Ambrosius and Vortigern?  How can the many, often widely varying, “histories” of the king be reconciled?  The Matthews examine it all, including a look at each of the major battles commonly credited to Arthur.

But this doesn’t stop there.  They also look at the most popular writings about King Arthur, like those of Sir Thomas Malory.  In fact, the book carefully examines Arthur from no less than eight different angles.  “Arthur of Rome”, “Arthur of the Shadows”, “Arthur of the Battles”, “Arthur of Myth”, “Arthur of Britain”, “Arthur, Lord of Camelot”, “Arthur of Fable” and “Arthur Everywhere”.  This is as detailed an examination of one of the core characters of British culture as I’ve ever seen.  At the same time, the authors make the book eminently readable.

For the serious student of history and culture, I have to believe this book will soon be required reading on the subject.  For the “fan” of Arthurian legend, the book offers a unique insight into these beloved stories.  Some sections, for me it was the examination of the battles, may offer more depth of analysis than is desired.  A quick skim will reveal more treasures waiting in the next sections to captivate you.

Taking on popular mythology can be a daunting task.  In “The Complete King Arthur”, the Matthews have created a book that is carefully researched and equally carefully crafted.  It is history that will delight you while expanding your understanding.

Why You Will Like It – Surrounded by centuries of legend, the authors offer you an in-depth look at the core of who “Arthur” may have been.  They peel away the mythology to reveal an even more nuanced character for the “King of the Britons”.

“The Complete King Arthur – Many Faces, One Hero” will be available beginning April 24, 2017.

Rating – **** Recommended


This book review was based on an Advanced Reader Copy and conforms to the Review Standards.