Merlin: The Prophet and His History

By Geoffrey Ashe

Book Overview

Geoffrey Ashe's book on this legendary figure offers a succession of surprises. The Merlin of legend was born to be a magician. He was 'immaculately' conceived and was able to interpret dreams and utter prophecies. Even his fate was imbued with magic. Like Arthur, he acquired immortality and sleeps on Bardsey Island, in a subterranean chamber with nine companions. Ashe reveals the man behind the myth, establishing beyond doubt the historicity of a Welsh prophet called Myrddin Emrys. Despite his 'supernatural' status it is Merlin, of all the great characters of the Arthurian world, who has the strongest claim to have existed.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0750941502
• ISBN13: 9780750941501
• Release Date: October 2008
• Publisher: History Press Limited, The
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.0" x 7.6"

Customer Reviews

Making a lengend real

I picked this up as part of a research project on Arthurian legends. Ashe is one of the foremost authorities on the subject, and his writings are entertaining and very approachable. This book is set against the backdrop of Geoffrey of Monmouth's The History of the Kings of Britain. Ashe traces Merlin's appearance in Geoffrey's work, and then takes the reader through historical records of secular and non-secular writings. Through it all, Ashe builds a case for the existence of Merlin (though not the magical being our current era has come to adopt) as a real person (or persons). Though a little academic (familiarity with the works of Wace, The Pearl Poet, and French lore is a plus, but not absolutely necessary)this book is entertaining enough for it to be a good primer for those looking for the history behind the legend.