Histories of the Kings of Britain

Histories of the Kings of Britain by Geoffrey of Monmouth is a sweeping medieval chronicle that traces the legendary origins and rulers of Britain from its mythical founding by Brutus of Troy through centuries of kingship, conquest, and betrayal. Rich with tales of warriors, monarchs, and dynasties, it blends myth and history in a way that shaped ideas of Britain’s past for generations.

Among its most enduring contributions are the stories of King Lear, Cymbeline, and above all King Arthur, whose legend would come to dominate medieval romance and inspire countless later works of literature. Far more than a simple record of rulers, the chronicle captures the spirit of medieval storytelling, where history and legend intertwine, rooting Britain’s destiny in both classical antiquity and heroic myth.

The work’s influence spread across Europe, feeding into Arthurian literature, national myth-making, and the enduring fascination with Britain’s legendary past. For readers drawn to medieval chronicles, Arthurian legend, or the mythic foundations of Britain, it remains a vital and captivating text. This translation by Sebastian Evans was originally published in 1904.