Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Roman period, 55 B.C.-449 A.D. -- Fiction Books
Best books
C. Bryson Taylor
Nicanor - Teller of Tales : A Story of Roman Britain
"Nicanor - Teller of Tales: A Story of Roman Britain" by C. Bryson Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds during the last days of Roman power in Britain, capturing the life of the protagonist, Nicanor, a young storyteller who is destined for greatness. The story explores themes of fate, artistic expression, and the struggle for identity within the backdrop of a crumbling empire. The opening of the novel introduces Nicanor as the son of a wood-cutter and the heir to a legacy of storytelling, indicated by the family lineage that includes his ancestor Melchior, a renowned tale-teller. As Nicanor experiences a moment of youthful reverie while contemplating his potential, his parents express both pride and concern for his future. This sets the stage for his journey south toward Londinium, driven by a desire to explore his talents and the world around him. Along the way, he encounters various characters and challenges, which not only shape his understanding of storytelling but also foreshadow the struggles and conflicts he will face in a society teetering on the edge of chaos.
Alfred John Church
The Count of the Saxon Shore; or The Villa in Vectis. A Tale of the Departure of the Romans from Britain
"The Count of the Saxon Shore; or The Villa in Vectis" by Rev. Alfred J. Church and Ruth Putnam is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores the tumultuous period during the Roman Empire's waning influence in Britain, particularly focusing on events surrounding the impending departure of Roman legions. The narrative highlights an array of characters involved in this critical juncture, including soldiers, political figures, and civilians, with significant attention given to Count Ælius, who serves as a protector of the coastline against Saxon raiders. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the setting of a Roman military camp in Britain, where soldiers await their pay amidst growing unrest due to missed wages. The central character, Gratianus, struggles to maintain control as a new, reluctant emperor when his leadership is soon challenged by chaos and anger from the ranks. Following his violent demise, a new leader, Constantinus, arises, setting the stage for further political intrigue and the ramifications of Roman rule in the region. Meanwhile, the story intertwines themes of loyalty, identity, and the clashing of cultures, particularly as characters like Carna and a young Saxon grapple with concepts of faith, duty, and heritage against the backdrop of an empire on the brink of collapse.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
Beric the Briton : a Story of the Roman Invasion
"Beric the Briton: A Story of the Roman Invasion" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. Set during the Roman conquest of Britain, the narrative follows the trials and development of the protagonist, Beric, a young Briton taken as a hostage to Rome who later returns to his homeland. The focus is on the struggle of the British tribes, particularly the Iceni, against Roman dominance, exploring themes of patriotism, cultural clash, and the quest for freedom. At the start of the story, the author presents a preface that outlines the historical context of Roman rule in Britain, highlighting the resilience of its native people despite the invaders' superior military organization. The first chapter introduces Beric and his friend Boduoc, who express their disdain for the Romans while recognizing their strengths. Beric’s mother, Parta, willingly sends him as a hostage to ensure safety for their people, with hopes he will learn from the Romans to help his tribe. Throughout the opening, Beric's character evolves between admiration for Roman civilization and a burning desire for liberation, setting the stage for the dramatic conflict he will face as tensions rise between the Romans and the Britons.
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