Maid Marian & The Misfortunes of Elphin: History, Myth and Mischief in Medieval Britain
About this ebook
“Entertaining, fun, and compelling, these two satirical texts, in one convenient volume, are must-reads for fantasy and literature fans alike…this book also offers an introduction and notes by LA Davenport that provides new insights into Peacock’s satirical writing. The stories themselves are charming, witty, and entertaining, and readers will love the protofeminist take on Maid Marian and the humorous depiction of King Arthur. Peacock’s prose is, admittedly, flowery and of its time, but this only adds to the charm, whimsy, and epic nature of these two narratives." Lily A, NetGalley.
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“An amusing satirical take on the tale of Maid Marian…a good read.” Mary H, NetGalley.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the Maid Marian text, which was funny and smart…To say this was written in the 1820s it felt quite modern.” Catherine O, NetGalley.
Witty, irreverent, and brilliantly satirical reimaginings of medieval legend, Maid Marian and The Misfortunes of Elphin are Thomas Love Peacock’s most playful and subversive novels.
In Maid Marian (1822), Peacock transforms the Robin Hood legend into a riotous political and social satire. Here, Marian is no passive heroine but a bold and resourceful leader, outmatching both outlaws and aristocrats alike. Through razor-sharp dialogue and comic absurdity, Peacock ridicules the conventions of chivalry, monarchy, and feudal society, offering a refreshingly modern take on the legendary outlaw’s tale.
In The Misfortunes of Elphin (1829), Peacock ventures into the mythical past of Wales, blending Arthurian romance, bardic tradition, and biting political satire. The hapless Prince Elphin, his formidable wife Angharad, and the ever-wise bard Taliesin navigate a world of floods, courtly intrigue, and an amusingly incompetent King Arthur. Filled with brilliantly anachronistic wit and wry observations on power and fate, this is Peacock at his most inventive.
Brimming with mock-heroic adventure, literary parody, and philosophical humour, these two novels remain as subversive and entertaining today as when they were first published. This edition includes a new introduction that explores the historical and literary influences behind Peacock’s satire, making it an essential addition to the library of any lover of classic literature, Arthurian myth, or historical comedy.
Perfect for lovers of Arthurian myth, Robin Hood retellings, and the playful satire of Cervantes and Swift.
With an introduction and notes by L.A. DAVENPORT.
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About the author
Thomas Love Peacock (1785–1866) was an English novelist, poet and satirist known for his witty, dialogue-driven novels that explore social, political and philosophical ideas. Born in Weymouth, Dorset, Peacock was largely self-educated and cultivated a broad literary knowledge, which shaped his sharp, satirical style. His best-known novels, such as Headlong Hall (1815), Nightmare Abbey (1818) and Crotchet Castle (1831), feature eccentric characters who debate contemporary issues, blending humor with critique. Peacock was a close friend of Percy Bysshe Shelley, whose Romantic ideals he gently mocked in his works.
L. A. Davenport, born in Cork, Ireland, in 1973, is a novelist and short story writer whose works include The Nucleus of Reality, Escape, and No Way Home. A graduate of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he brings extensive experience in medical journalism to his insightful and engaging fiction.
L. A. Davenport, born in Cork, Ireland, in 1973, is a novelist and short story writer whose works include The Nucleus of Reality, Escape, and No Way Home. A graduate of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he brings extensive experience in medical journalism to his insightful and engaging fiction.
