We are all familiar with the legendary tales of King Arthur: the sword in the stone, the Holy Grail, the great deeds and high enchantments. But what evidence is there for a real historical figure beneath the myth and romance? This book assembles a wealth of information about the Arthur of history by delving into the shadowy period of the past in which he lived. Drawing on evidence from both written and archaeological sources, Leslie Alcock, who directed the famous excavation at Cadbury Castle in Somerset, sifts history from fiction to take us back to life between the 4th and 7th centuries, a time of warfare and feuding, when Celtic Britain had shaken off Roman rule and fell victim to floods of raiding Scots, Picts and Anglo-Saxons. He also provides detail on how the Britons lived, worshipped, dressed and fought, to create a vivid picture of the Arthurian age and its warrior hero.

About the Author
Leslie Alcock, OBE, FSA, FRHistS, is Honorary Professorial Research Fellow and former Professor of Archaeology at the University of Glasgow. He is a past President of the Cambrian Archaeological Association and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.


Book Information
ISBN 9780141390697
Author Leslie Alcock
Format Paperback
Page Count 496
Imprint Penguin Books Ltd
Publisher Penguin Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 430g
Dimensions(mm) 213mm * 135mm * 28mm