Het zwevende schaakbord

by Louis Couperus

"Het zwevende schaakbord" by Louis Couperus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the mystical world of knights and chivalry, specifically focusing on the legendary figure Gawein (or Walewein) as he embarks on fantastical adventures involving enchantments, courtly love, and a quest for a mysterious floating chessboard. This romantic narrative draws heavily from medieval romance traditions, aiming to explore themes of honor, love, and the dynamics of human relationships within a fairy-tale-like setting. At the start of the novel, the author provides a reflective preface that discusses the literary context of knightly romances and their evolution from the rough epics of the Middle Ages to more refined tales of courtly love and chivalry. Following this introduction, the narrative unfolds in the Land of Logres, where Gawein is introduced awaiting an adventure at the Round Table alongside King Arthur and his fellow knights. The atmosphere is one of longing for excitement, as Gawein and the other knights lament the absence of adventure for a decade. The opening sets the stage for the re-emergence of the enchanting chessboard, suggesting that the knights' call for adventure will soon be answered, stirring anticipation for the journey that lies ahead.