The Arthur of the legends has quite stepped out of the historic page and become a hero without time or place in any real world, a king of the imagination, the loftiest figure in that great outgrowth of chivalric romance which formed the favorite fictitious literature of Europe during three or four of the mediæval centuries. The ballads and romances in which the King Arthur of mediæval story figures as the hero have here been transformed into easily readable prose and thus offer pleasant and enjoyable stories to us now. This is volume one out of two.

The 'KING ARTHUR - Ultimate Collection: 10 Books of Myths, Tales & The History Behind The Legendary King' is a rich tapestry of narrative adventure and literary exploration, bringing together an eclectic mix of tales about the iconic British leader and the chivalric order of the Round Table. This anthology showcases a remarkable diversity in storytelling, with works ranging from classic Arthurian legends to reinterpretations that breathe new life into ancient narratives. The compilation illuminates the enduring appeal of King Arthurs saga, spotlighting its influence on various literary styles and epochs, and the extraordinary depth with which these authors delve into the legends moral and ethical quandaries stands as a testament to its thematic richness and complexity. The contributing authors and editors, including figures like Howard Pyle and Alfred Tennyson, are rooted in dramatically different historical and cultural backgrounds, offering readers a panoramic view of the Arthurian legends evolution across time. Their collective works underscore significant movements within literature, from medieval romance to Victorian poetry, revealing how each period reimagined the Arthurian world to reflect contemporary concerns and values. This anthology is not just a collection of stories; it is a dialogue across centuries, showcasing the adaptability and resilience of the Arthurian legends. 'Readers seeking a comprehensive yet deeply nuanced exploration of the King Arthur mythos will find this collection invaluable. It is an enlightening journey through the ages, offering a unique opportunity to experience the myriad ways in which these timeless stories have been told and retold. By encompassing a broad spectrum of perspectives, styles, and themes, this anthology enriches our understanding of King Arthur's legend, inviting us to reconsider our notions of heroism, leadership, and morality. This collection is indispensable for enthusiasts of mythic literature, providing both an educational resource and a wellspring of inspiration that rekindles the magic and mystery of Arthur's world for a new generation.'

Reproduction of the original: Historic Tales, Vol 14 by Charles Morris

Le Morte D'Arthur is Sir Thomas Malory's richly evocative and enthralling version of the Arthurian legend. Recounting Arthur's birth, his ascendancy to the throne after claiming Excalibur, his ill-fated marriage to Guenever, the treachery of Morgan le Fay and the exploits of the Knights of the Round Table, it magically weaves together adventure, battle, love and enchantment. Le Morte D'Arthur looks back to an idealized Medieval world and is full of wistful, elegiac regret for a vanished age of chivalry. Edited and published by William Caxton in 1485, Malory's prose romance drew on French and English verse sources to give an epic unity to the Arthur myth, and remains the most magnificent re-telling of the story in English.

Curious about the chains that bound Fenriswulf in Norse mythology? Or the hut of Baba Yaga, the infamous witch of Russian folklore? Containing more than one thousand detailed entries on the magical and mythical items from the different folklore, legends, and religions the world over, this encyclopedia is the first of its kind. From Abadi, the named stone in Roman mythology to Zul-Hajam, one of the four swords said to belong to the prophet Mohammed, each item is described in as much detail as the original source material provided, including information on its origin, who was its wielder, and the extent of its magical abilities. The text also includes a comprehensive cross-reference system and an extensive bibliography to aid researchers.