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Arthurian Literature: The Core Reading
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items During my time at university, I became very interested in the world of Arthurian literature (that is, the myths of King Arthur, Merlin, and his chivalric knights). I researched and read many of the main works; I found myself utterly charmed by the be...
PLEASE NOTE: some of these works will only be of interest to scholars, others to the general reader.
PLEASE NOTE: some of these works will only be of interest to scholars, others to the general reader.
This poem possibly contains one of the very earliest references to Arthur.
Y Gododdin: The Bard Aneirin
One of the first mentions of Arthur (chapter 56). This text most notably details the battles he was involved in, including the battle of Badon.
The History of the Britons (Historia Brittonum): Nennius
Arthur is mentioned in these Annals (page 54). Once again, this work represents an early reference to Arthur (and here, to a couple of his deeds).
The Annals of Wales (Annales Cambriæ)
A very obscure, enigmatic poem that speaks of Arthur going on an expedition. It is difficult for me to understand completely.
The Spoils of Annwn (Preiddeu Annwn): Taliesin
Arthur (or Arthur's court) is not included in all of these short records. However, there is mention of him in several Triads. This book will interest scholars more than those simply wanting to read Arthurian myth.
The Triads of the Island of Britain (Trioedd Ynys Prydein): Rachel Bromwich Translation
In the later chapters (8-12) we find the story of Arthur, including his birth and his becoming King. Merlin is also present, which was particularly nice for me to see.
The History of the Kings of Britain (Historia Regum Britanniae): Geoffrey of Monmouth
A really nice book to have which details the life of Merlin, the magician.
The Life of Merlin (Vita Merlini): Geoffrey of Monmouth
I did an essay at university on Tristan. It is beautifully tragic story of two lovers, Tristan & Isolde. Arthur appears in this story, thus weaving it into the Arthurian world.
The Romance of Tristan: Beroul
The beloved romances of Chretien that so beautifully capture the spirit and soul of the Arthurian world.
Arthurian Romances: Chretien de Troyes
This is a particularly interesting trilogy because it offers a reworking of Merlin's story, and furthermore, unlike Chretien's work, it provides a completed Grail narrative.
The Merlin and the Grail: Robert de Boron
The famous tale of the Grail quest. It is a beautiful story that is profoundly spiritual in its symbolism.
The Quest of the Holy Grail (Queste del Saint Graal): P. M. Matarasso Translation
A collection of some lovely Welsh tales (English translation), some of which include Arthur/the Arthurian court.
The Mabinogion: Sioned Davies Translation
A wonderfully captivating story of the knight Sir Gawain and his meeting with the mysterious green knight.
Sir Gawain And The Green Knight: J. R. R. Tolkien Translation
These Middle English texts document the downfall/death of King Arthur. An emotional tale towards the end.
The Alliterative & Stanzaic Morte Darthur (Death of Arthur): Ed. Larry D. Benson
Malory's Morte Darthur absolutely shines; it is a must read for anyone interested in the Arthurian cycle.
Le Morte Darthur (The Death of Arthur): Sir Thomas Malory Ed. P. J. C. Field