Thomas Bulfinch (1796–1867) was an American author and historian best known for his collections of mythology and legend, including Bulfinch’s Mythology and works on medieval legends like Legends of Charlemagne. He aimed to make classical and medieval stories accessible to general readers, combining historical background with narrative flair.

Legends of Charlemagne is part of his broader effort to retell heroic and legendary tales from European history in a way that is both educational and engaging, focusing on the deeds, adventures, and moral lessons associated with Charlemagne and his knights. It reflects Bulfinch’s style of blending folklore, history, and storytelling to preserve and popularize these legends for 19th‑century audiences.