This book, "King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table," is an adaptation by Sidney Lanier of Sir Thomas Malory's foundational work, "Le Morte d'Arthur." It delves into the legendary tales of King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, Merlin, and the Knights of the Round Table, exploring themes of chivalry, loyalty, betrayal, and tragic fate. The narrative covers key elements of the Arthurian legend, including Arthur's rise to power, the establishment of Camelot and the Round Table, the quest for the Holy Grail, and the ultimate downfall of Arthur's kingdom due to internal conflicts and betrayals.
Sidney Lanier (1842–1881) was an American musician, poet, and author, known for his adaptations of classic literature into modernized language, particularly for younger audiences. He was a professor of literature at Johns Hopkins University and published a novel, poetry, and adventure stories for children. Lanier's "Boy's King Arthur," first published in 1880, was specifically intended as a children's edition, with Lanier carefully abridging and modernizing Malory's text, removing some of the more explicit or complex elements while retaining much of the violence and ignoble behavior.
The Arthurian legend itself holds significant historical and literary importance, having captivated audiences for centuries. Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur" is considered a cornerstone of Arthurian literature, compiling and reworking various French and English sources to create a comprehensive narrative of Arthur's life and legacy. Collectors find books on Arthurian legend interesting due to the enduring appeal of the stories, which transcend bibliographic boundaries and offer insights into why these tales continue to enchant. The legend explores universal themes of good versus evil, flawed heroes, and the aspiration for greatness, making it relatable across generations.
This book is in good condition. Hinges tight. Binding sturdy. Cover shows some light wear. All illustrations and plates are present. Text block is crisp and clean. No dust jacket.
Illustrated edition. Hardcover. No dust jacket. Bound in cloth over boards.
Location: ABS-1-4-003