Legends of King Arthur and His Knights by James Knowles

This book is an attempt to combine all the stories about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table from various sources to make a cohesive, fluid story. It is made up of sixteen chapters beginning in the prophecy of Arthur's birth to his defeat by Sir Modred. From chapter five to thirteen, however, the focus shifted to his well-known knights.

There was very little attempt at characterization. Arthur and his knights were just as elusive and mysterious as they were before and after I read the book. There was no attempt to portray him as something else other than what the sources say. The book is just a narration of the events from his birth to his death and the things that happened in between. I cannot empathize with any of the characters even if some of them were portrayed as almost invincible, brave men and the best fighters in the world.

Despite that, I'd still recommend this book to those who are interested in the Arthurian legends, particularly to those who are still not familiar with the story. The stories about the Quest of the Sangreal, Tristram and Isault, Arthur's conquests, and Sir Lancelot's adventures are included here.

I'm giving this book a 6 out of 10 rating.

For readers who want to see a different kind of Arthur, I recommend the Mabinogion by Lady Charlotte Guest.