Medieval fiction is a genre that takes readers on a journey through time, immersing them in the culture, society, and politics of a bygone era. These books transport readers to a world of chivalry, courtly love, and epic battles, giving them a glimpse into the lives of people who lived in the Middle Ages.
Here is a list of 20 of the top medieval fiction books of all time, each with a brief description:
- “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien – This epic fantasy novel is set in a pre-industrial, medieval-like world and follows hobbit Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a journey to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron.
- “A Song of Ice and Fire” series by George R.R. Martin – This series of fantasy novels is set in a medieval-inspired world and follows the struggles for power among noble houses in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.
- “The Once and Future King” by T.H. White – This Arthurian novel tells the story of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table, from his childhood as the orphaned Wart to his rise to power and ultimate downfall.
- “The Wheel of Time” series by Robert Jordan – This epic fantasy series is set in a medieval-inspired world and follows the journey of a group of warriors and mystics as they fight to save humanity from an ancient enemy.
- “The Mists of Avalon” by Marion Zimmer Bradley – This retelling of the Arthurian legend is told from the perspective of the female characters, including Morgaine and Gwenhwyfar, and explores the role of women in the medieval world.
- “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco – This historical mystery novel is set in a medieval monastery and follows the investigation of a series of murders by a Franciscan friar and his apprentice.
- “The Black Company” series by Glen Cook – This epic fantasy series is set in a medieval-inspired world and follows the adventures of a group of mercenaries as they serve various powerful and malevolent leaders.
- “The Last Kingdom” series by Bernard Cornwell – This historical fiction series is set in 9th century England and follows the life of Uhtred, a warrior who is captured and raised by the Vikings, and his struggles to reclaim his birthright.
- “The Chronicles of Narnia” series by C.S. Lewis – This fantasy series is set in a medieval-inspired world and follows the adventures of a group of children as they explore the magical land of Narnia.
- “The First Law” series by Joe Abercrombie – This epic fantasy series is set in a medieval-inspired world and follows the struggles for power among noble houses, as well as the lives of soldiers, mages and other characters.
- “The Lies of Locke Lamora” by Scott Lynch – This fantasy novel is set in a medieval-inspired city and follows the life of a skilled con artist and his associates as they navigate the criminal underworld.
- “The Iron King” by Maurice Druon – This historical fiction novel is the first in a series and is set in 14th century France and follows the life of the young King Philip VI, and the political and personal struggles he faces.
- “The Knight of the Cart” by Chrétien de Troyes – This medieval French romance is one of the first Arthurian novels and tells the story of the knight Lancelot and his love for Queen Guinevere.
- “The Grail Quest” series by Bernard Cornwell – This historical fiction series is set in 14th century England and follows the journey of Thomas of Hookton as he searches for the Holy Grail.
- “The Outlander” series by Diana Gabaldon – This historical fiction series is set in 18th century Scotland and follows the life of a nurse who is transported back in time to the Jacobite risings of the 18th century.
- “The Saxon Stories” series by Bernard Cornwell – This historical fiction series is set in 9th and 10th century England and follows the life of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon warrior who is captured and raised by the Danes, and his struggles to reclaim his birthright.
- “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas – This historical adventure novel is set in 1815-1839 France and follows the life of Edmond Dantès, a man who is falsely imprisoned and seeks revenge against those who betrayed him.
- “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri – This epic poem is written in the 14th century and is divided into three parts: Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. It follows the journey of the poet Dante through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, guided by the Roman poet Virgil and Beatrice, his ideal woman.
- “The Iliad” by Homer – This epic poem is one of the oldest works of Western literature and tells the story of the Trojan War.
- “The Decameron” by Giovanni Boccaccio – This 14th century Italian collection of novellas is set in the aftermath of the Black Death and follows a group of ten young men and women who flee the city to a country estate, where they tell each other stories over ten days. The stories range from the comedic to the tragic, and provide a unique look into medieval society and culture.
These books offer a diverse range of perspectives, styles, and settings, but all provide a rich and immersive experience of the medieval world. From the epic battles of the Trojan War to the political struggles of medieval France, these books have something for every reader who is interested in the Middle Ages. Whether you’re a history buff, a fantasy fan, or just looking for a good story, these books are sure to transport you back in time and give you a glimpse into the past.
