A Visitor from the Distant Past

The August session of our tea, talk and quiz afternoon called ‘In The Ballroom’ enjoyed a talk about – and by – the legendary hero, Guy of Warwick. 

Neville Armstrong is a local historian who has written three books about Guy and his possible connection with King Arthur – another pre-medieval figure who may or may not have been a real person. 

Neville explained that Guy’s story was very widely known across Europe, and the tale of this yeoman who fell in love with the Earl’s daughter, Felice, and proved his worth by many heroic deeds, killing giants and monsters, including the huge bovine beast on Dunsmore Heath, appears in a host of early manuscripts. His story was one of the first popular books to be printed; he is referenced by Shakespeare – so the story was very well known in the 16th century.

He said it is a mystery why his wide popularity, (his story was translated into many European languages and Arabic), descended into relative obscurity in recent years. He speculated that when Hollywood producers preferred the Robin Hood story, bringing it to the silver screen and then television, the Guy legend was eclipsed.

Neville is trying to bring it back to popularity, particularly to children, with a book illustrated by Karen Haynes due to be released soon. His books are available in the Warwick Visitor Information Centre.

‘In The Ballroom’ takes place from 2pm on the second Wednesday of the month, and costs just £3 per person, to include the tea, coffee and a selection of cakes. The afternoon includes a quiz prepared by Helen Fellows. With temperatures outside at 32 degrees celsius, the theme this time was Summer!

The next session will be on September 9th, with a talk about ‘The Wonders of Bird Migration’. These afternoons are popular, so please reserve your place with the team at the Visitor Centre: 01926 492212