Local Place and the Arthurian Tradition in England and Wales, 1400-1700

This book explores the proliferation of Arthurian sites in late medieval and early modern England and Wales, examining how and why they came to be, the role of medieval custodians, and the impact on visitors. It argues that a new history of Arthur begins to emerge, a local history manifested through textual and material culture.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 342 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The power of places to transport us to other worlds, even when dealing with fantastical subjects, is undeniable. The numerous locations linked to King Arthur exemplify this, ranging from Tintagel in Cornwall to Caerleon in Wales. However, the question remains: how and why did Arthurian sites spread across the English and Welsh landscape? What role did the medieval custodians of Arthurian abbeys, churches, cathedrals, and castles play in establishing Arthur's presence? How did visitors perceive Arthur in these sacred spaces, and how did their experiences influence the broader Arthurian tradition? Moreover, why have certain places, both in history and in modern times, proven to be so potent in sustaining the belief in Arthur's reality?

To explore these questions, this book, the first in-depth study of Arthurian places in late medieval and early modern England and Wales, takes us on a journey. It begins by examining the on-site experiences of Arthur, at locations such as Glastonbury, York, Dover, and Cirencester. Through the accounts of visitors like John Hardyng, John Leland, and William Camden, who later used these sites as evidence for the existence of Arthur in their writings, we see how the local Arthur was manifested through textual and material culture, including chronicles, notebooks, and antiquarian works.

By carefully piecing together this evidence, the book argues for a new perspective on Arthur's history: a local history. It suggests that rather than a centralized, national figure, Arthur was a localized hero, deeply embedded in the communities he inhabited. The book explores how these places shaped the legend and how the legend, in turn, influenced the physical landscape, creating a symbiotic relationship between Arthur and his surroundings.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this book offers valuable insights into the power of places and the enduring legacy of King Arthur. It sheds light on the ways in which historical narratives are constructed and challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of the past. Whether you are a scholar of Arthurian studies or simply a lover of history and mythology, this book will captivate and inspire you.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781843846581