The main objective of this thesis is to analyse the historical short stories in Lendas e Narrativas, so as to demonstrate, from both historical and fictional points of view, Herculanos attempt to change the Portuguese medieval period into a cultural inheritance, following the romantic artistic project. The second objective is to capture the romantic view of the author, who looked back to medieval times, in order to build a Portuguese cultural identity. The investigation is divided into six chapters, each one emphasizing the function that historical discourse represents in Herculanos fiction. In the light of contemporary theories, the seven narratives are analysed through the discussion of the plots (intrigues), to detect the peculiarities of each one. The emphasis is on the dialogue established between the discourses of Literature and History, within the texts, at the moment of creation. In broad terms, the research concludes that in Lendas e Narrativas the author intended to keep the memory of intense experiences, involving both the Iberian traditions and the transformation of these traditions, which assume the role of producer of new elements. This experience constructs the identity of the basic characteristics of nineteenth century Portuguese literature and even some characteristics of literature in the following century. Reflecting on the question of literary memory in Lendas e Narrativas thus demands the recognition that literary production is a system of dialogues, exchanges and appropriations that are activated by a play of interactive forces. The diversity of characters in the book makes it an intricate weave of historical fiction in the tradition of Walter Scott. The present study intends to contribute to the recognition of this essential work in Portuguese Romanticism and, perhaps ambitiously, to open up perspectives for new research. This continuous movement of interpreting history, renewing its significance, and providing it with different interpretations is a pathway to the discovery of fascinating new readings.