Understanding the Concept of Legends with Detailed Insights into Some Famous Legends

A legend is a story, a folktale which has a strange resemblance to the truth, mostly on the lines of history. Most legends are either actively dedicated to religion and religious figures or comprises of kings, wars and often trysts of destiny.

A legend is often a mythological story which is woven with the intention of providing children and even grownups doses of inspiration and encouragement towards values, ethics and principles.

Some famous legends are discussed below:

The Fountain of Youth

This forms a legendary spring type water body, whose water had the ability to restore youth to anyone who happens to drink it. Multiple writers and many stories have accommodated this famous spring. Eurasia, Florida (in United States), Caribbean islands and the Mediterranean regions have been possible locations of the fountain of youth. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León was said to be closest to come in contact with the spring.

Legend of Atlantis

Atlantis was said to be one of the richest cities (it was an island though) ever. It was also known to be a kingdom known or its naval power. Its location was somewhere in or near the Atlantic Ocean. Famous philosopher Plato was the originator of the legend of Atlantis. Such is the fascination of the lost city that whenever there are any underwater remains of historical cities found, these are compared with Atlantis.

Legend of Ramayana

Initiated by Sage Valmiki, Ramayana follows the tales of King Rama’s fight for truth against evil.

Legend of Robinhood

One of the most famous legends, Robinhood was an outcast who was known to rob the rich (mostly evil) and share an important part of the booty with the poor. He was a part of the English folklore.

Legend of Philosopher’s Stone

The philosopher’s stone was considered an alchemical substance which turned base metals into expensive metals like gold. It was also connected with immortality. Apart from explorers, even famous alchemists were said to at least believe in this legend (most never claimed it publicly).

All in all, legends are made with pints of truth swung between fantasies, so these are believable but not believed by one and all.


Some famous legends have not only taught the best of moral values, but these made us believe the mantra - anything is possible. To learn more about legends and their teachings, trust only the best compilations, just like the Cambridge encyclopedia volumes.