Myths and myth-makers: (1872) by John Fiske (World's Classics): old tales and superstitions interpreted by comparative mythology Few mediaeval heroes are so widely known as William Tell. His exploits have been celebrated by one of the greatest poets and one of the most popular musicians of modern times. They are doubtless familiar to many who have never heard of Stauffacher or Winkelried, who are quite ignorant of the prowess of Roland, and to whom Arthur and Lancelot, nay, even Charlemagne, are but empty names. John Fiske (March 30, 1842 - July 4, 1901) was an American philosopher and historian.