First Thought Best Thought

Steve Blake and Scott Lloyd argue not only that Arthur existed, but also that the supposed locations of Camelot and Arthur's birth and last battle are radically different from those handed down from the Middle Ages. The source of our current stories of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is the work of Geoffrey of Monmouth, published in the 12th century. Much of the information that Geoffrey included appears to have been introduced at the request of Geoffrey's patron, the Earl of Gloucester. Tintagel, therefore, which belonged to the earl's brother, was named as Arthur's birthplace. Though there is a Round Table at Winchester, dendrochronology shows that it dates from no earlier than the reign of Edward III, who revived interest in Arthur by instigating the Order of the Round Table. Blake and Lloyd have combed accounts of Arthur dating from the Dark Ages and come up with a radical suggestion as to where the events of the legendary chieftain's life actually took place. They contend that Insula Britannia, the Kingdom of Britain, was, in fact, entirely situated in what we now know as Wales and the Welsh Marches. Evidence from ancient chronicles shows that the London referred to in mediaeval accounts of Arthur was in fact Ludlow, York was Wroxeter and Caerleon was Chester. The sword in the stone was situated at Machynlleth. Whether or not the reader agrees with the theory, the book is extremely detailed and well argued, providing evidence for the locations and identities of many events and characters in the Arthurian legends, such as Merlin and Morgan le Fay. Many maps are provided, so it is possible for the reader to visit and examine the places. This fascinating and enjoyable book would provide the basis for an intriguing trip to Wales. (Kirkus UK)