The History of Sir Richard Whittington

Delve into the tangled roots of a beloved English legend with this scholarly edition of the earliest known narrative about Sir Richard Whittington. The introduction unpacks how the familiar story of a poor boy, a ringing bell, and a clever cat was gradually grafted onto the life of a real 14th‑century merchant, stripping away much of the original history. Drawing from a rare manuscript housed in the Pepysian Library, the editor highlights discrepancies in dates, locations and details that have long been taken for granted.

The text itself reproduces the 1670s version of Whittington’s tale, allowing listeners to hear the story before later chap‑book embellishments reshaped it. Along the way, the commentary compares this early account with later ballads and popular retellings, revealing how places like Highgate Hill and the famous “turn again” bell verses entered the folklore. It’s an engaging glimpse into how history and imagination intertwine, perfect for anyone curious about the making of a myth.