Product Description

Scholar, churchman, diplomat and theologian, Gerald of Wales was one of the most fascinating figures of the Middle Ages and The Journey Through Wales describes his eventful tour of the country as a missionary in 1188. In a style reminiscent of a diary, Gerald records the day-to-day events of the mission, alongside lively accounts of local miracles, folklore and religious relics such as Saint Patrick’s Horn, and eloquent descriptions of natural scenery that includes the rugged promontory of St David’s and the vast snow-covered panoramas of Snowdonia. The landscape is evoked in further detail in The Description, which chronicles the everyday lives of the Welsh people with skill and affection. Witty and gently humorous throughout, these works provide a unique view into the medieval world.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #79868 in Books
• Published on: 2004-05-27
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

About the Author
Gerald of Wales was born c.1145 in Pembrokeshire. He died in obscurity, possibly in Lincoln in 1223. He wrote seventeen books, all of them in Latin, and was well-connected to the Royal Family of his day. Lewis Thorpe was Professor of French at Nottingham University from 1958 to 1977. He was President of the British Branch of the International Arthurian Society. He died in 1977.

Customer Reviews

A fascinating and entertaining read!
Gerald of Wales was Archdeacon of Brecon in the 12th century and along with Archbishop Baldwin he travelled around Wales to drum up support for the Third Crusade. This book was supposed to record the day-to-day events of the mission but Gerald was a bit of a raconteur, he also wrote about everything else that caught his eye. He knew everyone who was anyone in the 12th century and wrote about them all, sometimes with quite a bit of venom! He aspired to be Bishop of St David's (a role he'd never get) and would often write snide remarks about the man who did get the job. He also wrote about local legends that he'd heard, mythical creatures, saintly relics, described beautifully the landscapes and people that he met along the way. He writes with wit and humour throughout the book which makes it a delight to read. This book is a fascinating study of life in Wales in the 12th century written almost in the style of a travel diary. This book will appeal to both scholars and anyone with just a passing interest in history.