Bestselling Mythologist Amy Jeffs – The Life of King Arthur
Summary
Amy Jeffs discusses her new biography of King Arthur, which blends academic scholarship with storytelling to depict him as a violent warlord rather than a chivalrous knight. The episode explores how Arthur’s legend evolved from mythic folk hero to historical figure, examining sources like the Brut and Geoffrey of Monmouth. Jeffs also highlights unique medieval details, such as Arthur being raised by fairies and the origins of the Round Table, while reflecting on the enduring appeal of the Arthurian myth.
Topics discussed
How to Academy live shows in America
Introduction to Amy Jeffs and her new book
Why now: The inspiration behind the biography
Building the world: Deep history and the Brut Chronicle
Arthur as a violent warlord in medieval sources
The Christmas feast brawl and the origin of the Round Table
Why the Matter of Britain endures in imagination
Podcast recommendation: The Happiness Lab
Arthur in the Otranto Cathedral mosaic
Myth made history: Euhemerus and the Norman perspective
Arthur as a folk hero before Geoffrey of Monmouth
Geoffrey of Monmouth's political utility and Gerald of Wales
How to Plus membership promotion
Arthur raised by fairies: The missing 15 years
The Sword in the Stone and the sacral king
The mystery of the three Guinevers
Favorite modern retellings and closing remarks
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