Myths and Legends of the Middle Ages: Their Origin and Influence on Literature and Art, (Paperback)

First Published in 2005. This classic work presents sixteen key myths and legends of the Arthurian, Carolingian, Teutonic and Scandinavian cycles which embody the chivalric code and which inspired the greatest works of romance literature and art. Some, like Tristan and Isolde, Merlin and the Niebelungenlied, are well known. Others, such as the tale of the Amelings and the Langobardian Cycle are rarely encountered. All of the tales and the tourneys, quests, vows, battles and betrayals of which they tell have retained their enchanting power through the ages. They illuminate the mystical significance of knighthood and its ethos of self-purification and honour, allowing us to decode many of the allusions found in medieval art, literature and song. Written for the general reader with captivating style, this work makes the lore of the chivalric Middle Ages accessible and enriches our understanding of a magnificent age.