and_abelard_reads's review
4.0
I really love the Mammoth anthologies, and this was no exception. Ashley is a very thoughtful curator, bringing together a collection that showcases the depth and breadth of the subject matter - and some out of print gems.
My only niggle is that this is a "mammoth" anthology and many of the entries are part of the Victorian chivalric "revival" or ape the "ye olde" style, so not really a book to read in one sitting (unless that's your thing).
I'd also like to note that some of the tales might not be considered Arthurian under a strict interpretation, but more in line with the age-old storytelling tradition of "Arthur's King ok, they want to be knights of Camelot, stop asking questions and drink your beer".
My only niggle is that this is a "mammoth" anthology and many of the entries are part of the Victorian chivalric "revival" or ape the "ye olde" style, so not really a book to read in one sitting (unless that's your thing).
I'd also like to note that some of the tales might not be considered Arthurian under a strict interpretation, but more in line with the age-old storytelling tradition of "Arthur's King ok, they want to be knights of Camelot, stop asking questions and drink your beer".
plexippa's review
4.0
Ashley's anthology provides a thorough introduction to the story of Arthur by bringing together a variety of stories about Arthur, his knights, and other aspects of the legends. The stories cover Arthur's birth and fosterage, his rise to power, the exploits of some of his knights, Merlin's influence, and the demise of the Round Table. The last story in the book is a special treat.
Because the stories come from different times, cultures, and authors, some flexibility is necessary. Names change and events are depicted differently from story to story. But this is also an important aspect of the legend, and Ashley's introductory comments to each tale help to tie it all together.
This book, of course, does not cover every aspect of the adventures of Arthur and his Court, but it introduces the reader to a world that has been explored many times by many authors, and the interested reader can choose his own direction confident that he has a good grounding in the story.
Because the stories come from different times, cultures, and authors, some flexibility is necessary. Names change and events are depicted differently from story to story. But this is also an important aspect of the legend, and Ashley's introductory comments to each tale help to tie it all together.
This book, of course, does not cover every aspect of the adventures of Arthur and his Court, but it introduces the reader to a world that has been explored many times by many authors, and the interested reader can choose his own direction confident that he has a good grounding in the story.
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