Imagining the Middle Ages
Medieval Tales for Modern Readers
If you’re on a quest to read engaging historical fiction, then make a pilgrimage through this collection of novels set in medieval times. Don’t want to be stuck in the Dark Ages? Pair your reading with our curated vocabulary lists and we’ll make sure you master any words that plague you.
The Inquisitor's TaleIn the thirteenth century, travelers at an inn tell tales about the adventures of three children attempting to escape religious persecution.
Beowulf: A New TellingThis adaptation of an Old English epic describes the feats of the warrior Beowulf, who arrives in the great hall of Heorot to defeat a bloodthirsty monster.
Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval VillageThrough vivid verse monologues, Laura Amy Schlitz brings the diverse inhabitants of a medieval English village to life.
The Once and Future KingIn this retelling of the Arthurian legend, a young boy is tutored by the wizard Merlin in preparation for his future as a great king of England.
Catherine, Called BirdyIn medieval England, an unconventional teenage girl records events in her daily life, including her attempts to thwart her father's plans to marry her off.
GrendelIn this retelling, the monster from the Old English epic Beowulf, shares his own story.
Crispin: The Cross of LeadAfter being accused of theft, orphan Crispin is on the run in medieval England. As he crosses the country and evades his enemies, he discovers a startling secret about his true identity.
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's CourtIn this comic novel, a nineteenth-century engineer is magically transported back to medieval England.
The Midwife's ApprenticeIn medieval England, an orphaned girl named Brat becomes an apprentice to Jane Sharp, the local midwife.
The Door in the WallIn 14th-century England, a knight-in-training named Robin suffers an injury to his legs — but learns that there are many ways to be a hero.
Sign up now (it’s free!)
Whether you’re a teacher or a learner,
Vocabulary.com can put you or your class
on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement.