The Winter King (The Arthur Books #1)
by Bernard Cornwell

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Book Reviews of The Winter King (The Arthur Books #1)

Book Review: Bernard Cornwell rules!!!
Summary: 5 Stars

I said earlier that Mallory introduced chivalry to Arthurian literature. Though there is a great deal of oath swearing in this book, there is not much chivalry and even less classic romanticism. Oh, Arthur's attraction to Guiniverre is man/woman romantic enough, but the painting of the times is bleak. I'm reminded of the movie "McCabe and Mr. Miller", a western movie that came out in the late 60's. It was among the first of the "dusty" Westerns, in that it was not the romanticized old West of John Wayne and Jimmy Stewart and Gene Autry. It was dirty, dusty, harsh, and generally unpleasant (it's probably still my favorite western movie. . .). "The Winter King" is to Mallory and that ilk of Arthurian literature as "McCabe and Mrs. Miller" was to "The Lone Ranger." You can actually feel and smell the filth. . . Chivalry is replaced with opportunistic politicking, and Arthur is one of the worst offenders.

Merlin was actually a minor character in Mallory. In this book, he is much more of a presence. As a result, there is far more outward reference to magic in this story, too. I say reference, because there's very little of the real thing. Merlin is a full-fledged Druid, but he, Morgan, and Nimue are seem (at least to me) to more shamans than true magicians. But, if the peasants believe it's magic, does it really matter??

Another element central to this book is the religious conflict. Historically, Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries would have been wracked by dissention between the Christians, proselytized by the Romans, and the Britons, still faithful to the pagan gods. Merlin, of course, stands firmly on the side of the Old Gods and the Bishop Sansum is the kingpin of the Christians. The ancient monk Derval, who narrates the book, was the child of a Saxon slave and raised by Merlin. This story covers the period of his childhood and entry into manhood. But, we know that after a lifetime as a warrior and pagan, he becomes a seemingly staunch disciple of Sansum, as his narration is retrospective. Methinks therein lies a tale for the next two books of the series. . .

Finally, in my humble estimation, the trait that sets one Arthurian retelling above another is the strength of the character serving as the narrator. Derval is fantastic. He is a confidant of Arthur, Galahad, and Merlin - some pretty strong connections. Yet, he is a sworn enemy of Lancelot, and certainly paints the most unflattering portrait of Lancelot that I have ever read. I feel that this plot line will unfold differently than it seems, as I'm sure there are some surprises in the future relationship between Derval and Sansum. What I'm getting at is how truthful is the narration? We know Derval is strongly opinionated. I'm eager to read on to discover how much is "truth" and how much is Derval's perception and memory.

And read the rest of the story, I will! This is a strong book and a very welcome addition to the genre.

Summary of The Winter King (The Arthur Books #1)

Bernard Cornwell downplays the magic that enlivens the traditional stories, depicting it more as a combination of superstition and shrewd wits. I recommend this with reservations; though it's absorbing to read, the emphasis on battles and politics means that this will greatly appeal to some fantasy readers, but disappoint others.

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