Recs if you like Le Morte Darthur: The Winchester Manuscript...
so, you pulled the sword from the stone, now what?
were you a fan of BBC’s Merlin? did you like the King Arthur subplot of Once Upon a Time? have you ever dreamt about pulling a sword from a stone? this list of Arthurian inspired books is for you!
disclaimer: I have not read all of these books
as always, taking any and all suggestions!!
Actual Medieval Literature
As much medieval-era literature as I can possibly gather into one list! Largely focused on romances, lais, Arthuriana, &c.
Fantasy Classics
Non-exhaustive list of foundational reading for the fantasy genre; either foundational texts or classics that influenced the development of the genre and its conventions. Also some key modern texts + criticism.
medieval literature for beginner’s
A list of medieval classics for those who are new to the genre. This list isn’t fully finished; recommendations welcome!
Arthuriana for the ages
Arthurian history, mythology, legends, fantasy, and retellings from history and modernity, as well as books and stories directly inspired by Arthurian myth. Series include just the first book as this list started to get very long
Once and Future Reads
The legend that never stopped being told. From medieval romances to modern retellings, these are the stories of knights, quests and camelot dreams that keep pulling you back to the round table.
Missing Merlin BBC? I got you 🏰⚔️🔮
Ever wanted to get into Arthurian Legend? Want more knightly affairs? Seen Merlin BBC and still not over it? ME TOO! Unfortunately Arthurian myth by nature is hard to compile and thus can be difficult to get into, but fear not; I have done the hard part for you! (Contains tales directly from legend as well as books inspired by it! If you have suggestions lmk and I'll add them)
Fantasy, Fairy Tales, Myths, and Theories Thereof
Have you ever wanted a PhD in English Lit? Do you think fantasy is a legitimate field of literary criticism? Would you like a glimpse into the psyche of someone who does?
These are the books included (or excerpted from) on my comprehensive exams list for a dissertation on fantasy. It is not even a remotely comprehensive list of fantasy texts and criticism (yes, I see the irony).
spring reads
books that are like a breath of fresh air or based in nature, or are full of exuberance, sweetness, mischief, long ramblings, and childlike fun
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