Arthur And The Lost Kingdoms - Hardcover

Describing himself as an "amateur historian" Alistair Moffat delves into the history of his local area in lowland Scotland and discovers a possible new identity for the man behind the legends of King Arthur. He asserts that although Arthur's person and influence did reach southern Britain his base of power was in fact in the Scottish Borders. Arthur becomes crucial to the shaping of the Britain we know today and to the creation of a powerful Scotland which remained a nation for 1000 years even though his legend becomes associated with South-west England and Wales, thus masking the glories of Dark Age Celtic Scotland. The text is packed with fascinating clues to life in the Celtic past gleaned from traditional cultural practices (there is an enthralling section on tree lore) and changing place names--evidence which Moffat claims is often unreasonably disregarded by historians. His new "common sense" deductions are combined with succinct coverage of the documentary and archaeological evidence. Those who have read other books on Arthur will find a new dimension in Arthur and the Lost Kingdoms. Readers new to the subject should find that the book provides a vivid and thought-provoking introduction to Arthur and his times through a lively, intricate and personalised text. Historians will no doubt find plenty to grapple with. --Karen Tiley

A fascinating and unique study of one of the most enigmatic figures in our history.