Attila and His Conquerors: A Story of the Days of St. Patrick and St. Leo the Great

by Elizabeth Rundle Charles

"Attila and His Conquerors: A Story of the Days of St. Patrick and St. Leo the Great" by Mrs. Rundle Charles is a historical fiction novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in a tumultuous period marked by the conflicts between early Christians and barbarian invaders, specifically focusing on the experiences of the chieftain's children, Baithene and Ethne, whose lives are upended by the cruelty of pirates. The story transports readers through themes of faith, courage, and family ties as it intertwines the historical presence of figures like St. Patrick and Attila the Hun. At the start of the book, we meet Baithene and Ethne, two siblings from the chieftain family of O’Neill, who represent the idea of an aristocracy both in their royal lineage and spiritual standing as new Christians. Following their baptism by St. Patrick, they are suddenly captured by pirates while reflecting on their faith and the transformative power of love. Their desperate journey reveals the struggles of not only their own plight but the larger context of a world besieged by chaos and moral dilemmas, setting the stage for a broader narrative that intertwines personal trials with significant historical events. The opening portion establishes a rich tapestry of relationships, character development, and themes of hope amidst adversity.