Historia regum britanniae

Definition

Historia Regum Britanniae, or 'The History of the Kings of Britain,' is a pseudo-historical account written by Geoffrey of Monmouth in the 12th century. This work weaves together history, legend, and folklore to narrate the story of Britain's kings from its legendary founding to the Norman conquest, greatly influencing the Arthurian legend and shaping medieval literature's portrayal of Britain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote Historia Regum Britanniae around 1136, and it was one of the first texts to establish a historical framework for Arthurian legends.
2. The work claims to draw on earlier sources, including oral traditions and other historical writings, although much of it is considered fictional.
3. Historia Regum Britanniae introduces several key figures in British mythology, including King Arthur, Merlin, and Guinevere, solidifying their roles in later medieval texts.
4. Geoffrey's narrative not only influenced literature but also contributed to a sense of national identity in Britain during the medieval period.
5. The text was widely read and translated into various languages, leading to numerous adaptations and retellings that shaped the medieval imagination about Britain's past.

Review Questions

• How does Historia Regum Britanniae contribute to our understanding of the development of the Arthurian legend?
  • Historia Regum Britanniae is pivotal in shaping the Arthurian legend as it provides one of the earliest comprehensive accounts of King Arthur's life and reign. Geoffrey of Monmouth's portrayal introduced iconic characters like Merlin and Guinevere, laying the groundwork for later romances. The blending of history and myth within this work allowed for an expansive narrative that would inspire countless adaptations and interpretations throughout medieval literature.
• In what ways did Geoffrey of Monmouth's work influence perceptions of British history during the medieval period?
  • Geoffrey of Monmouth's Historia Regum Britanniae significantly influenced perceptions of British history by presenting a narrative that combined legendary tales with historical figures. His portrayal contributed to a sense of national identity among medieval Britons, as readers began to see themselves as part of a long historical lineage connected to heroic figures like King Arthur. This work also sparked interest in Britain’s past, encouraging further historical writing and the creation of chronicles.
• Evaluate the impact of Historia Regum Britanniae on subsequent medieval literature and its role in shaping cultural narratives about Britain.
  • The impact of Historia Regum Britanniae on subsequent medieval literature is profound, as it provided a foundation upon which many later authors built their own narratives about Arthurian legends and British history. Its themes of heroism, chivalry, and the struggle for power resonated throughout later works, influencing writers such as Chretien de Troyes and Sir Thomas Malory. The cultural narratives established by Geoffrey continue to inform modern interpretations of British folklore and identity, demonstrating how a single text can shape collective memory across centuries.

Related terms

Geoffrey of Monmouth:

A cleric and historian known for his influential work 'Historia Regum Britanniae,' which played a key role in the development of the Arthurian legend and British historical narrative.

Arthurian Legend:

A body of stories and medieval romances centered around King Arthur, his knights, and the quest for the Holy Grail, heavily influenced by Geoffrey's writings.

Chronicle: A historical account or narrative that presents events in chronological order, often used as a source for understanding history in medieval literature.