Orlando Furioso book cover

Cover via Open Library

Movie · 1983

Is Hearts and Armour based on a book?

Quick answer

Yes. Hearts and Armour is based on the works Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto (1516) and Orlando Innamorato by Matteo Maria Boiardo (1483).

The movie was released in 1983.

The book behind Hearts and Armour

Orlando Furioso cover

Orlando Furioso

by Ludovico Ariosto · first published 1516 · chivalric romance

Epic Italian poem by Ludovico Ariosto.

Orlando Innamorato

by Matteo Maria Boiardo · first published 1483 · chivalric romance

Epic poem by Matteo Maria Boiardo.

Common questions

Is Hearts and Armour based on a book?

Yes. Hearts and Armour is based on the works Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto (1516) and Orlando Innamorato by Matteo Maria Boiardo (1483).

Who wrote the book Hearts and Armour is based on?

Orlando Furioso was written by Ludovico Ariosto and Matteo Maria Boiardo and first published in 1516.

Should I read the book before watching?

If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read Orlando Furioso before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the movie.

Facts from Wikidata (CC0). See also Wikipedia.