The Greatest "Historical fiction, Folklore" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

Folklore

Folklore is a category of books that encompasses traditional stories, beliefs, and customs of a particular culture or community. These stories are often passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the people. Folklore books may include myths, legends, fables, fairy tales, and other forms of storytelling that reflect the values, beliefs, and experiences of a particular group of people. They offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of a community and provide insight into their way of life, beliefs, and customs.

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  1. 1. Le Morte d'Arthur by Thomas Malory

    This classic work is a compilation of stories and legends about the legendary King Arthur, his knights, and the Round Table. It tells of Arthur's rise to power, his quest for the Holy Grail, and his tragic downfall. The book, written in the 15th century, is considered one of the most influential pieces of Arthurian literature and has significantly shaped the modern perception of Arthur, Merlin, Guinevere, Lancelot, and other iconic characters.

  2. 2. The Nibelungenlied by Anonymous

    "The Nibelungenlied" is a Middle High German epic poem that narrates the story of dragon-slayer Siegfried at the court of the Burgundians, his murder, his wife Kriemhild's revenge, and the destruction of the Burgundians. The narrative is set in the early medieval period and combines elements of Norse mythology, courtly love, and heroic legend. The poem explores themes of honor, loyalty, love, betrayal, and revenge, and is considered one of the most important works of German literature.

  3. 3. The Water Margin: Outlaws of the Marsh by Shi Naian

    "The Water Margin: Outlaws of the Marsh" is a classic Chinese novel set during the Song dynasty, revolving around 108 outlaws who gather at Mount Liang to form a sizable army. The narrative explores themes of rebellion, loyalty, and justice, as these bandits challenge the corrupt and oppressive government. Despite their status as outlaws, they follow a strict code of honor and righteousness, often assisting the poor and the weak. The book is a blend of history, folklore, and mythology, offering a vivid portrayal of the political and social dynamics of the era.

  4. 4. The Enchanted Wanderer by Nikolai Leskov

    "The Enchanted Wanderer" is a collection of short stories that follow the life of a Russian serf, Ivan Flyagin, who is destined to wander forever and never die. Throughout his travels, he experiences a myriad of adventures including becoming a monk, being captured by Tartars, and falling in love. The stories are filled with folkloric elements and offer a vivid depiction of 19th-century Russian society.

  5. 5. Martín Fierro by José Hernández

    "Martín Fierro" is an epic poem that tells the story of a gaucho, or Argentine cowboy, who is forcibly recruited to fight against indigenous tribes. He returns to find his home destroyed and his family gone, leading him to become an outlaw. The narrative explores themes of Argentine identity, the conflict between civilization and nature, and the injustices suffered by the gauchos. It is recognized as a foundational work of Argentine literature.

  6. 6. The Song of Roland by Unknown

    "The Song of Roland" is an epic poem based on the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778 during the reign of Charlemagne. The story revolves around the hero, Roland, and his loyalty to his king, Charlemagne. As a commander of the rearguard of Charlemagne's army, Roland is betrayed by his stepfather, Ganelon, which leads to a disastrous battle with the Saracens. Roland's heroic deeds, his friendship with Oliver, and his tragic death are central to the narrative. The poem is a major part of the medieval European literature, emphasizing the code of chivalry and the duties of a knight.

  7. 7. Soundjata Ou L'épopée Mandingue by Djibril Tamsir Niane

    "Soundjata Ou L'épopée Mandingue" is a historical novel that tells the captivating story of Soundjata Keita, the legendary founder of the Mali Empire. Set in 13th-century West Africa, the book follows Soundjata's journey from a crippled and exiled prince to a powerful warrior king. Through battles, alliances, and encounters with mystical beings, Soundjata's determination and leadership skills are tested as he strives to unite the Mandinka people and reclaim his rightful throne. This epic tale explores themes of courage, destiny, and the enduring power of legends.

  8. 8. Robin Hood by Henry Gilbert

    This classic tale follows the adventures of Robin Hood, a legendary hero who steals from the rich to give to the poor. Living in the Sherwood Forest with his band of Merry Men, Robin Hood is a skilled archer and swordsman who outwits the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham and other adversaries. His acts of bravery and generosity, along with his love for the fair Maid Marian, have cemented his place as a symbol of resistance against tyranny. Through a series of daring escapades, Robin Hood fights for justice, showcasing his unwavering commitment to helping those in need.

  9. 9. The Robber Bridegroom by Eudora Welty

    Set in the American South, the novel is a dark fairytale that revolves around the story of a charming and mysterious outlaw known as the Robber Bridegroom. He leads a double life, courting a virtuous innkeeper's daughter while leading a band of thieves in the wilderness. As the wedding day approaches, the bride-to-be begins to uncover the sinister truth about her fiancé's nefarious activities. Blending Southern folklore with the Brothers Grimm, the narrative unfolds with a mix of humor, romance, and macabre twists, ultimately exploring themes of identity, deception, and the nature of storytelling itself.

  10. 10. Thursbitch by Alan Garner

    The book follows two parallel narratives. The first is set in the 18th century, focusing on a packman named Jack Turner who is mysteriously found dead in the valley of Thursbitch. The second narrative is set in the present day, where a woman named Sal and her friend Ian explore the same area, finding themselves mysteriously drawn to the mystery of Jack's death. The narratives intertwine as the boundaries between past and present blur, revealing the mystical and spiritual significance of the valley. The story explores themes of time, memory, and the enduring power of place.

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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