St George is a figure that bridges many worlds. At the heart of the myths and legends surrounding this English icon lies the story of an Early Christian Martyr persecuted by the Roman Empire. But England is only one country to have adopted this legendary soldier saint as their patron. Other countries including Germany, Armenia, Hungary, Portugal and Malta have all claimed him as their own. In ST GEORGE, Giles Morgan explores the history and relevance of this most popular icon across the globe.
So what's so significant about the Byzantine Empire? Modern historians are
increasingly coming to recognize the role the Byzantine Empire played in the
development of both Islam and Christianity, and the relationship between the
two, and is recognised as having had a considerable influence on the
Renaissance and a significant impact in...
The Holy Grail captivates both mainstream and fringe audiences, exemplified by the success of The Da Vinci Code, which highlights the intersection of myth and historical fact. Arthurian legends and historically inspired dramas have gained prominence through films like Lord of the Rings, King Arthur, Gladiator, and Troy. Additionally, the Glastonbury festival continues to spark interest in the area's history and its connection to the Grail. This legendary object, appearing as a magic cauldron, cornucopia, and chalice, has remained central to popular culture since ancient times. As a source of marvel and mystery, the Grail's roots in historical facts have inspired literature and the arts throughout Western Culture. From Celtic mythology to medieval romances, it has served as a nurturing vessel, providing endless inspiration for writers and artists. This volume explores the Grail's story, revealing the cultural transition from Celtic paganism to the rise of Christianity in Western Europe. The influence of Eastern mysticism in Grail romances emerged from the medieval crusades, leading to a blend of ideas. The Grail symbolizes ultimate achievement in modern thought, captivating figures like psychologist Carl Jung and poet T.S. Eliot, while artists such as Wagner, William Blake, and the Pre-Raphaelites have also been enchanted by its enduring allure.
In July, 2009 amateur metal detectorist Terry Herbert made an incredible discovery. He was searching a field in Staffordshire with his metal detector when he stumbled upon the single greatest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold and silverwork ever found. His amazing finds, known collectively as the Staffordshire Hoard, focused a spotlight of interest on the history and lives of these Dark Age people. But who were the Anglo-Saxons and where did they come from?
Few fictional characters have proven to be as enduringly popular as the
legendary Count Dracula. In Dracula: The Origins and Influence of the
Legendary Vampire Count, author Giles Morgan examines the roots of the vampire
myth and the creation of Bram Stoker's masterpiece of horror....
The history of the grail legend from the early Christian gospels to today's
renewed fascination as seen in the books and films such as The Da Vinci Code
and Indiana Jones. schovat popis