Abstract
The power of myths is enormous. One of the most influential myth in medieval Britain was about its foundation by Trojans and their leader Brutus.
Medieval writers, Nennius (9th century) and Geoffrey of Monmouth (12th century), laid the foundations for trojan origins of Britons and their rule over whole island. Great realm of Brutus and Arthur fell under control of invading Saxons and Britain was shattered to small kingdoms without one overlord.
This mythical topic became popular in the high and late Middle Ages, when many rulers used argument of restoration of the ancient kingdom of the Britons as their legitimization weapon. English kings and welsh princes shielded themselves with trojan origins especially in crucial moments when they needed support of their subjects.
This paper is focused on the usage of "British history" during the War of Roses by Edward IV. of York and especially to one of his genealogical rolls (Philadelphia Free Library, Lewis E 201). This richly illuminated, and highly elaborated manuscript could be used for understanding which role could the "British history" play in medieval rulers' propaganda.
The key role in the Edward's IV. genealogical roll is a coat of arms of mythical founder of Britain - Brutus of Troy. This is rare and probably the only one survived piece of Brutus' heraldry arms which was, according to primary sources, connected with many English and Welsh monarchs.