Book by K.R. Kobrin “The Middle Ages: Essays on Borders, Identity and Reflection” opens a small series on medieval studies (series minor). The book is devoted to several interrelated topics: new approaches to political history, the formation of regional identity in the Middle Ages (and the place of political mythology in this process), as well as the history of medieval studies of the 20th century in the political and cultural context of our time. The author analyzes political and mythological stories from the medieval Welsh epic “The Mabinogion” and the works of Geoffrey of Monmouth. Particular attention is paid to the life and works of the famous medieval author, church and statesman Herald of Cambria (1146–1223). Along with a detailed study of Welsh medieval material, the author also explores the fate of medieval studies in the 20th century. - using the example of the works of M. Blok, E. Kantorovich and O.G. Eksle.The book is addressed to historians, philosophers, philologists and cultural experts, as well as to everyone who is interested in medieval studies and the intellectual history of the 20th century.