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Book Review of The Holy Grail: The History and Legend of the Famous Relic

The Holy Grail: The History and Legend of the Famous Relic
jjares avatar reviewed on + 3299 more book reviews


Before reading this, I had no idea where the idea of the Holy Grail originated. This book takes the reader to where the legend started in the 12th century -- and then explained how the legend grew and changed over time.

The idea of the Holy Grail originated as part of the Legend of King Arthur. Unfortunately, the author died before finishing his story. His story was wildly popular in France. Over time, other authors were hired to finish the tale -- with various outcomes.

So, the Grail has nothing to do with the Bible or Jesus' death. That is why the Church elders were silent about it -- it didn't exist until it was introduced in the 1100s literature in France. However, Charles Rivers weaves a wonderful story about how the Holy Grail became part of world literature.