Review by Choice Review
Preceded some 20 years ago by The Arthur of the Welsh, ed. by Rachel Bromwich, A. O. H. Jarman, and Brynley Roberts (CH, Apr'92, 29-4315), the present hefty tome marks a milestone: an up-to-date, comprehensive examination of Arthurian literature and traditions in the Celtic languages of Welsh, Cornish, Breton, Irish, and Scots Gaelic. Reflecting recent groundbreaking intercultural tendencies in Celtic studies, the volume comprises 24 impressive essays, by senior and junior scholars, that trace the development of Arthurian legends as they were continuously adapted from the High Middle Ages and to the 20th century. Arthur's evolution is traced from the mists of early medieval north Britain as he developed into a prestigious courtly king who engaged in infamous knightly adventures. Looking at tales that recount quests and narrate marvels, the essays describe characters and situations as they are reimagined and reinterpreted according to local circumstances, traditions, and preoccupations at different historical periods. Specialists, in particular, will find this examination of a vast and complex body of lore indispensable. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty. --Raymond J. Cormier, emeritus, Longwood University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
