Arthurian Myth & Legend: An A-Z of People and Places : Book Review

"Arthurian Myth & Legend" by Mike Dixon-Kennedy is an all-encompassing exploration of the captivating world of King Arthur and his legendary Knights of the Round Table. In this book, Dixon-Kennedy takes readers on a comprehensive journey through the origins and evolution of Arthurian legend, examining a wide array of literary works, historical accounts, and folklore that have shaped our understanding of this iconic figure.

Dixon-Kennedy expertly navigates through the intricate tapestry of Arthurian tales, beginning with early Welsh texts like the Mabinogion, all the way to Geoffrey of Monmouth's influential "History of the Kings of Britain," and the epic poems of Layamon and Chrétien de Troyes. Each source is accompanied by insightful commentary from the author, highlighting the key themes and characters that have become synonymous with Arthurian lore.

One of the standout features of this book is its exploration of the diverse interpretations of Arthurian legend found in both literature and popular culture. Dixon-Kennedy thoroughly examines the romanticized versions of Arthur in medieval romances, delves into the religious undertones found in the Grail stories, and explores the darker aspects of the legend as depicted in Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur." Moreover, the author reflects on how Arthurian mythology has been adapted and reimagined in modern works, making it relevant and appealing to contemporary audiences.

The depth of research in "Arthurian Myth & Legend" is impressive, as Dixon-Kennedy approaches the subject from various perspectives, including historical, literary, and archaeological. This multidisciplinary approach provides readers with a well-rounded understanding of the legend's origins and its enduring allure.

In conclusion, "Arthurian Myth & Legend" is a captivating read that will enthrall both avid Arthurian enthusiasts and those venturing into this mythical world for the first time. Dixon-Kennedy's meticulous attention to detail and engaging writing style make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in delving into the rich tapestry of Arthurian mythology.

What are readers saying?

Mike Dixon-Kennedy's book "Arthurian Myth & Legend" has received a mix of reviews from readers. The book offers a detailed exploration of the mythical world of King Arthur and his knights, but opinions on its quality differ. Some reviewers found the book to be informative and well-researched, praising Dixon-Kennedy's comprehensive overview of various aspects of Arthurian mythology. They appreciated his attention to detail and how he highlighted lesser-known tales. These readers considered the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in delving into the legend of King Arthur.

On the other hand, several reviewers had issues with the organization and structure of the book. They found that it often jumped between different topics and stories, making it difficult to follow the overall narrative. This lack of coherence hindered their enjoyment and made it challenging to fully grasp the complexities of Arthurian mythology.

In addition, some readers criticized the book's academic tone, finding it dry and inaccessible. They wished for a more engaging writing style that would appeal to a wider audience. They also noticed that the book assumed a certain level of prior knowledge, making it alienating for those new to the subject.

However, despite these criticisms, many readers still acknowledged the wealth of information and insights provided by "Arthurian Myth & Legend." They recognized Dixon-Kennedy's expertise and passion for the subject, even if they had reservations about the book's execution. Overall, it seems that while the book may not be suitable for every reader, it can be a valuable resource for those willing to delve deep into the world of Arthurian mythology.