British Legends: Treachery, Murder, Lust and Rowena – The Rule of Vortigern
Vortigern was legendary 5th century King of the Britons featured in the work of early British writers such as Gildas, Nennius, Bede, Geoffrey of Monmouth and others.
Who Was the Real Robin Hood? A New Theory from Michael Reuel
Michael Reuel talks about his theory that historical roots for the character of Robin Hood may be seen in medieval folklore ballads.
Gifted by Second Sight
Second Sight is a perplexing subject, both respected and feared in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. For some who possess it, it can seem like a curse.
British Legends: King Lear and Cordelia – A Tale of Love and Foolishness
King Leir and his youngest daughter, Queen Cordelia, were legendary rulers of the the Britons. Their story appeared in History of the Kings of Britain, (Historia regum Britanniae) by Geoffrey of Monmouth in the 12th century and presented here is a retelling of that story.
Mark Twain’s Wild West and the Presidential Election of 1872
In a daring act, facing frightful peril, Mark Twain exploited a legend to launch his onstage comic career. With his future as a lecturer on a knife’s edge, Twain decided to open with a worn-out narrative that had seen better days. A disgruntled audience nearly drove him from the stage … until they understood his brilliant manipulation of their own folklore.