The History of the Kings of Britain Summary
Geoffrey of Monmouth

The History of the Kings of Britain Summary

In The History of the Kings of Britain, Geoffrey of Monmouth proposes to set forth the history of the British kings starting with Brutus and ending with Cadwallo. Geoffrey undertakes this endeavor at the request of the Archdeacon of Oxford who presents Geoffry with an ancient text to translate from British into Latin. The history of the British kings shows how fortune, jealousy, and betrayal can lead to the demise of an entire nation. On the other hand the text also details the qualities that are necessary in a good ruler who unites his people in peace. While Geoffrey's account reads like a novel, the basis for the book is historical and gives the reader a generalized view of British history.

Britain's history begins with Brutus, an exiled Trojan accused of killing both his mother and father. During his time in exile, Brutus frees enslaved Trojans and secures ships to... View more of the The History of the Kings of Britain Summary