In the most simple and literal sense, the prefix semi- means half or partly, and barbaric means cruel or savage, or primitive and uncivilized, or even a combination of the two. So, if you were to describe someone as semi-barbaric, you would be saying he or she is a little bit cruel or only slightly uncivilized.

Why is the king described as semi-barbaric?

The king is regarded as "semi-barbaric" in the sense that he has been influenced by his distant Latin neighbors. His ideas are described in the tale as "polished" and "sharpened" by Latin influence, which implies that he's steeped in the culture and learning of antiquity.

What does a barbaric mean?

1a : of, relating to, or characteristic of a group of people who are alien to another land, culture, or people and who are usually believed to be inferior : of, relating to, or characteristic of barbarians.