Maid Marian & The Misfortunes of Elphin
by Thomas Love Peacock
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Pub Date 4 Sep 2025 | Archive Date Not set
P-Wave Press | P-Wave Classics
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Description
Witty, irreverent, and brilliantly satirical reimaginings of medieval legend, Maid Marian and The Misfortunes of Elphin are Thomas Love Peacock’s most playful and subversive novels.
In Maid Marian (1822), Peacock transforms the Robin Hood legend into a riotous political and social satire. Here, Marian is no passive heroine but a bold and resourceful leader, outmatching both outlaws and aristocrats alike. Through razor-sharp dialogue and comic absurdity, Peacock ridicules the conventions of chivalry, monarchy, and feudal society, offering a refreshingly modern take on the legendary outlaw’s tale.
In The Misfortunes of Elphin (1829), Peacock ventures into the mythical past of Wales, blending Arthurian romance, bardic tradition, and biting political satire. The hapless Prince Elphin, his formidable wife Angharad, and the ever-wise bard Taliesin navigate a world of floods, courtly intrigue, and an amusingly incompetent King Arthur. Filled with brilliantly anachronistic wit and wry observations on power and fate, this is Peacock at his most inventive.
Brimming with mock-heroic adventure, literary parody, and philosophical humour, these two novels remain as subversive and entertaining today as when they were first published. This edition includes a new introduction that explores the historical and literary influences behind Peacock’s satire, making it an essential addition to the library of any lover of classic literature, Arthurian myth, or historical comedy.
Perfect for lovers of Arthurian myth, Robin Hood retellings, and the playful satire of Cervantes and Swift.
With an introduction and notes by L.A. DAVENPORT.
A Note From the Publisher
• A fresh, beautifully presented edition of two of Peacock’s sharpest satires.
• Maid Marian upends the Robin Hood legend with wit and political bite.
• The Misfortunes of Elphin reimagines Arthurian Wales with humour and literary flair.
• Includes a new introduction and notes by L.A. Davenport, providing contemporary insights and historical context.
Perfect For Readers Who Enjoy:
• Ivanhoe by Walter Scott
• Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
• The Once and Future King by T.H. White
• Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen
• Satirical takes on myth and legend
Publisher Information:
Publisher: P-Wave Press
Imprint: P-Wave Classics
Release Date: 4 September 2025
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Available for Request: Reviewers, librarians, and booksellers are welcome to request an early review copy of this timeless satirical classic.
Advance Praise
Marketing Plan
Wide Retail Distribution: Available on major retailers, and the P-Wave Press website in print and eBook formats.
Targeted Online Promotion: Amazon Sponsored Ads, social media campaigns, and literary-themed newsletters.
Academic & Literary Outreach: Review copies sent to journals, university professors, and 19th-century literature scholars.
Press & Review Engagement: Pitched to The London Review of Books, Literary Review, and The Idler, among others, with podcast features planned.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781916937109 |
| PRICE | £9.99 (GBP) |
| PAGES | 336 |
