Subject
Chivalry -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
William Henry Frost
The Knights of the Round Table: Stories of King Arthur and the Holy Grail
"The Knights of the Round Table: Stories of King Arthur and the Holy Grail" by William Henry Frost is a historical collection of tales written in the late 19th century. The book reimagines and retells classic Arthurian legends, focusing on iconic figures such as King Arthur, Guinevere, and notable knights like Lancelot and Gawain as they embark on various adventures. It appeals to readers who enjoy chivalric stories and the themes of honor, loyalty, and the quest for the Holy Grail. The opening of the book introduces the reader to Glastonbury Tor, where the narrator, accompanied by Helen and her mother, reminisces about the legendary tales surrounding King Arthur. They explore Glastonbury and its historical significance, discussing figures like Joseph of Arimathea and the connection to Avalon. The passage sets the stage for a blend of travel narrative and mythic storytelling, capturing the enchantment of Arthurian lore while hinting at the adventures that will unfold as the characters delve deeper into the world of Camelot and its knights.
Frank Cowper
The Captain of the Wight: A Romance of Carisbrooke Castle in 1488
"The Captain of the Wight: A Romance of Carisbrooke Castle in 1488" by Frank Cowper is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the Renaissance period, the story focuses on the character of Ralph de Lisle, a young boy whose journey toward knighthood unfolds amidst rich historical detail and the romance of chivalry. The narrative seeks to capture Ralph’s adventures and training under the noble Sir Edward Woodville, blending themes of valor, ambition, and the importance of honor in a time of civil strife. The opening of the story introduces Ralph as he eagerly anticipates his future, feeling both the weight of his lineage and the thrill of aspiration. On his fifteenth birthday, he receives a gerfalcon as a gift, symbolizing both the freedom and responsibilities that come with growing up. As he interacts with his family and prepares for his journey to join the household of Lord Woodville, the narrative conveys his youthful exuberance intertwined with foreboding reflections on mortality from his father, Sir John de Lisle. This blend of light-hearted childhood experiences and serious familial expectations hints at the trials Ralph will face as he embarks on his adventure, setting the stage for a tale steeped in the lore of the period.
Edward Abbott Parry
Don Quixote of the Mancha, Retold by Judge Parry
"Don Quixote of the Mancha," retold by Judge Parry and based on the work of Cervantes Saavedra, is a classic novel written in the early 17th century. The book captures the adventures of the delusional yet noble protagonist, Don Quixote, who is a man so consumed by tales of chivalry that he decides to embark on his own quest as a knight-errant, alongside his pragmatic squire, Sancho Panza. This retelling aims to present the story in a simpler narrative form for younger readers, preserving the humor and wisdom inherent in the original text. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Don Quixote, a gentleman from La Mancha who has become so obsessed with tales of knights that he sets out to become one himself, rechristening himself as Don Quixote. After acquiring some old armor and renaming his horse Rozinante, he prepares for his journey, filled with zeal and the desire to right wrongs. His first attempt at knighthood occurs when he tries to rescue an imagined damsel but instead finds himself in an inn, which he mistakes for a castle. As he interacts with the inn's occupants, his misinterpretations lead to comical and absurd scenarios, setting the stage for the rich adventures and misadventures that follow in his quest for glory.
Charles Henry Hanson
Stories of the Days of King Arthur
"Stories of the Days of King Arthur" by Charles Henry Hanson is a collection of Arthurian legends and tales written during the late 19th century. This work serves as a compilation tailored for young readers, aiming to present the enchanting and sometimes morally complex stories of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, and related characters such as Merlin, in a more accessible form. The book captures the spirit of chivalry, adventure, and the supernatural that characterizes the Arthurian mythos. The opening of the collection sets the stage by detailing the fate of King Constans and his three sons, leading into the rise of Vortigern, who usurps the throne amid chaos caused by invading forces. Young Merlin, introduced as a key character, foretells the conflicts that will unfold in the kingdom, including the battles against power-hungry factions and fearsome invaders. The narrative establishes themes of destiny, loyalty, and the moral challenges faced by those vying for power, as well as the significance of magical elements in shaping the course of events in this legendary retelling.
William O. Stoddard
With the Black Prince
"With the Black Prince" by William O. Stoddard is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around Richard Neville, a young lord who must navigate the turbulent landscape of feudal England during the reign of Edward III. With themes of adventure, loyalty, and the clash between noble and common folk, the story promises a rich exploration of medieval life and the responsibilities of leadership. The opening of the novel immerses the reader in an action-filled scene where a group of hunters has killed a royal stag, igniting tensions with the king's enforcers. This initial conflict introduces key characters, including Richard Neville and the bold archer Guy the Bow. As chaos unfolds with a band of outlaws threatening the local villages, Richard demonstrates his valor in defending his people. The conflict sets the stage for Richard’s growth from a young nobleman to a leader of men, foreshadowing the adventures he will embark upon under the command of the Black Prince as he joins a broader war effort against France.
Alfred Tennyson Tennyson
Tales from Tennyson
"Tales from Tennyson" by Molly K. Bellew is a collection of retellings of the works by the famous English poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, written in the early 20th century. The book transforms Tennyson’s iconic poems, particularly those from "Idylls of the King," into prose narratives that appeal to a younger audience. Each tale highlights the legendary King Arthur and chronicles the adventures of his Knights of the Round Table, exploring themes of chivalry, honor, and romance. The opening of the collection sets the stage for the legendary tales of King Arthur by recounting the story of his ascension to the throne and the deep love he develops for Princess Guinevere. Born of uncertain lineage, Arthur faces doubt and challenges from rebellious nobles but successfully unites the fragmented kingdoms of England against external threats. The narrative introduces key characters, including the wise wizard Merlin and the beautiful Guinevere, while establishing the backdrop of valor and adventure that will permeate the rest of the stories. This blend of fantasy, history, and morality offers a rich and engaging introduction for readers who may be unfamiliar with Tennyson’s original works.
Eglanton Thorne
Worthy of his name
"Worthy of His Name" by Eglanton Thorne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds the struggles of young Gus Rew, who lives in poverty with his father, Augustus Carruthers, a once-gentleman now fallen on hard times due to alcoholism and misfortunes. The narrative explores themes of resilience, identity, and the essence of what it means to be a gentleman amid societal prejudices and personal tragedies. The opening of the book introduces us to the setting of Lavender Terrace, a dismal neighborhood where Gus and his father reside as lodgers. The father, beset by illness and regret, reminisces about their noble lineage while grappling with the consequences of his past choices. As they navigate their grim reality, Gus exhibits a blend of innocence and determination, insisting on the promise he made to his father to uphold the values of a gentleman, even as he faces ridicule from his peers. The poignant exchanges between Gus and his father set the tone for a story that will delve into themes of heritage, personal struggle, and the unwavering hope for a better future.
Evelyn Everett-Green
In the Days of Chivalry: A Tale of the Times of the Black Prince
"In the Days of Chivalry: A Tale of the Times of the Black Prince" by Evelyn Everett-Green is an historical novel that likely reflects the late 19th century sensibilities regarding medieval themes. The narrative begins by introducing twin brothers, Gaston and Raymond, who are the heirs of the De Brocas lineage but live in obscurity as peasant millers. The story captures their yearning for adventure and nobility, intertwined with their desire to reclaim their ancestral lands from their family's nemesis, the Sieur de Navailles. The opening of the novel immerses readers in a picturesque setting of autumn in Gascony, where the twins are depicted walking through a magical forest, engaged in passionate discussions about their noble heritage and lost rights. As they reflect on their past, memories of their mother’s words ignite ambitions within them to reclaim their rightful inheritance of Basildene in England rather than the more imposing fortress of Saut, currently held by their enemies. However, their plans begin taking shape after an encounter with a scornful nobleman, which propels them to seek their destiny beyond the familiar confines of the mill. The development of their journey, ambitions, and identities promises an engaging exploration of chivalry and familial duty as they venture into an uncertain future.
Sophia H. MacLehose
Tales from Spenser, Chosen from the Faerie Queene
"Tales from Spenser, Chosen from the Faerie Queene" by Sophia H. Maclehose is a collection of stories written in the late 19th century. This anthology presents selected episodes from Edmund Spenser's famous epic poem "The Faerie Queene," specifically curated for a younger audience, focusing on themes of nobility, adventure, and virtue without delving into the more complex allegorical interpretations of the original work. The collection features well-known characters such as Una, the Red-cross Knight, and Prince Arthur as they embark on quests filled with magical encounters and moral lessons. The opening of the book introduces us to Una, the daughter of a king and queen who have been imprisoned by a fearsome dragon. Determined to save her parents, Una sets off to the court of Gloriana, where she meets the Red-cross Knight. Initially appearing as a humble and unassuming figure, the knight miraculously transforms into a noble protector upon donning the armor that Una has brought for him. As they begin their quest, they encounter challenges posed by Archimago, an evil enchanter who tries to separate them. The tale swiftly captures the essence of virtue, valor, and fidelity as Una, accompanied by her devoted lion, brave the treacherous paths to rescue her loved ones, highlighting themes of inner strength and resilience.
Evelyn Everett-Green
The Secret Chamber at Chad
"The Secret Chamber at Chad" by Evelyn Everett-Green is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the tumultuous times following the Wars of the Roses, the story revolves around the Chadgrove family living in their ancestral home of Chad. The novel introduces the resourceful and courageous young son, Bertram, who discovers a mysterious stranger taking refuge in a secret chamber of the house, leading to a series of adventures intertwined with themes of loyalty, bravery, and the quest for justice. At the start of the novel, the scene is set with the Chad estate under the glow of a June moon, as the family celebrates a period of peace following the wars. The narrative quickly shifts focus to the eldest son, Bertram, who is startled awake by strange sounds emanating from the wall next to his bed. His curiosity leads him to uncover a haggard man, the fugitive Warbel, seeking shelter from his pursuers. Bertram, moved by empathy, vows to help the stranger, thus initiating a bond between them and introducing the secret chamber that will play a pivotal role in their lives. As the two interact, themes of friendship and the struggle against oppressive forces emerge, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
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