While
reading this chapter, I thought back to the discussion on the differences
between ‘history’ and ‘fiction’; I believe Geoffrey’s stories are the exact intersection
of said concepts. Supposedly, he had written the History of the Kings
of Britain, but much of his writings seem to be more ‘story’ than actual
history. For example, how would he know the exact events that transpired at every
moment in Arthur’s career, even down to the words said by others? On page 70,
Geoffrey even describes Arthur’s fight with Frollo down to each individual
actions; “Arthur unsheathed his sword, too, and was hurrying to kill him, when
Frollo stood up quickly and, with his lance straight before him, ran at Arthur”
(Geoffrey (Loomis?) 70).
Other aspects that portray his writings as ‘stories’ are
the fantastical events, including but not limited to Uther Pendragon turning
himself into Gorlois, and Arthur’s battle with a literal giant that ate humans.
These events cannot be considered history in my opinion, and many others as well.
It is even stated in the beginning of the chapter that “Other historians of his
own century and since have dismissed Geoffrey’s claims an imposture” (Loomis
58)
Overall, it was interesting and entertaining to read, but
impossible to believe.
