"The Golden Legend" is a poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, an American poet renowned for his lyrical and narrative works. Published in 1851, this epic poem is inspired by the medieval hagiography of the same name, which recounts the lives of saints and martyrs.
Longfellow's adaptation of "The Golden Legend" centers around the story of Prince Henry of Hoheneck, who sets out on a quest to find the holy grail. Along his journey, he encounters various characters and experiences, including love, temptation, and redemption. The poem is rich in religious symbolism and allegory, exploring themes of faith, salvation, and the human condition.