Richard the Lionheart

In Life and in Legend

By: Heather Blurton

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Hardcover | 1 March 2026

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Hardcover
224 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
21.6 x 13.8 x 1.3

Hardcover

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How did Richard the Lionheart, who once said he would sell London if he found a buyer, become celebrated as the ideal of English chivalry?

This book examines the life of Richard I (1157-1199) through the captivating stories told about him, from accounts of his deeds in medieval sources to his portrayals in modern literature and media. Tales of Richard's exploits were as colourful as they were varied, ranging from him wielding King Arthur's sword to being a son of the Devil or even a cannibal. Instead of separating fact from fiction, this book explores how these tales shaped his legacy in both his time and ours.

'This book, at once readable and scholarly, shows how the fascinating historical figure of Richard the Lionheart metamorphosed into the character of myth and romance that we know today. An ideal introduction to England’s most legendary medieval king.' – Jay Rubenstein, USC Dornsife

About the Author

Heather Blurton is professor of English at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her books include Inventing William of Norwich: Thomas of Monmouth, Antisemitism, and Literary Culture, 1150–1200.

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