Arthuriana -- all things King Arthur ! discussion

I had heard this was slow going. To my surprise, it sailed by swiftly and painlessly--in the audiobook format. Derek Jacobi used a different pronunciation of some things than I had previously held in my mind, but he's probably closer to the "correct" version. Although I haven't tried any of the print versions, I recommend this audiobook to anyone who needs an easy way through. (And to anyone who needs to cram a little more Arthur into an already busy day.)

I think there is an older audio version narrated by someone else.

Can you post an internal link to the audiobook here so that I can request a copy from my local library?

Thanks for the recommendation. I've been meaning to read this for years and I absolutely love Derek Jacobi's voice.

I also image this would be a treat on audio. I wouldn't mind Derek Jacobi reading me some Malory while I am washing dishes.

Le Morte D'Arthur

I'm having trouble finding this edition at one of the four local libraries I have cards for in the KC metro area. I also noticed that the Derek Jacobi version is abridged.

How much is cut? As much as I love Derek's voice, I usually strive for unabridged editions of audiobooks.

I would guess that a substantial amount has been cut. I rented it from Simply Audiobooks, so it may not be at my library either.

I went ahead and ordered a "like new" used copy from Amazon this morning. It was very difficult to find a copy at a library locally to me and I didn't want to request it via interlibrary loan.

Jon wrote: "How much is cut?"
How long is the audio book?
I know of an unabridged Moby Dick that runs at about 24 hours, and it's a similar size to the usual edited 1 volume Mortes out there. Some basic maths should help you get a vague idea of how abridged the audio Morte is.
I imagine it is edited down without missing the big stuff though, a bunch of us on this group pretty much agree that an edited version of Malory's Book Of Tristram is more fun that the unabridged version. I take it the Grail Quest, Gareth, Lancelot are all still in though?

Thomas wrote: "Le Morte D'Arthur"

I have that at home, it's good.

Simply Audiobooks lists it as 9 hours in length. SA refers to it as: "This audio adaptation of Malory's epic poem," so I guess I shouldn't complain about the lack of an "abridged" stamp anywhere.

Gareth, Lancelot, and the Grail are all mentioned; Lancelot's deeds are discussed at considerable length. I don't think it's missing any major elements, but I can't say for sure, as I haven't read any other version of the book.

On GR, Debra A. Kemp's review of this edition gives a good idea of the cutting.