The Vita Merlini by Geoffrey of Monmouth

Description

The Vita Merlini is a book by Geoffrey of Monmouth, first published in the 12th century. Written in Latin verse, this work expands on the legendary figure of Merlin, shifting away from his earlier portrayal in The History of the Kings of Britain and presenting him as a prophetic, wild sage living in the forests of Britain. Drawing on Celtic traditions and classical influences, Geoffrey reimagines Merlin as a figure of deep wisdom, suffering from madness brought on by the horrors of war. The poem follows his retreat into the wilderness, his visions of the future, and his interactions with other mystical figures, including the bard Taliesin and the healer Morgan le Fay. Unlike the more familiar courtly wizard of later Arthurian romances, The Vita Merlini presents a more introspective and enigmatic Merlin, influenced by older Celtic legends of wild men and seers. The text provides insight into medieval perceptions of prophecy, nature, and the role of the mystic within society. It also helped shape the evolving legend of Merlin, bridging the gap between historical mythology and the romanticized figure found in later Arthurian literature. As one of the earliest and most detailed accounts of Merlin’s life beyond the Arthurian court, this work remains an essential text for those interested in the origins of the Merlin legend and medieval British literature. This translation by John Jay Parry was first published in 1925.

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