This book takes a factual based approach to the legend of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, El Cid. It analyses the chronicles contemporary during the life of El Cid, many of which were fully included the book The World of El Cid, however unlike The World of El Cid, in this book we get an in-depth analysis of the famous poem El Cantar de mio Cid, which has fueled Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar a folk hero of Spain. In addition it includes other sources, like films and plays that portrayed the legends of El Cid.

This book provides really good research and analysis showcasing the elements of what turned El Cid from a medieval military leader to a present day national hero. It is worth mentioning the author is English. So from an Englishmen’s perspective the author provides a lot of comparisons between medieval England and Spain. In addition comparisons between the Arthurian legends and El Cid.

A very interesting anecdote was learning how the author was first captivated by the character of El Cid because of the Hollywood movie of El Cid when he was just a child. Yet the author rightfully is not shy to differentiate the legends and myths surrounding El Cid from the true historical person.

Given the times the movie is mentioned in this book, perhaps it may be a good idea to watch the movie prior to reading this book. As well as the podcast from Real Crusades History which takes an in-depth look on El Cid.