| Author |
Scott, Walter, 1771-1832 |
| Title |
The Talisman
|
| Note |
Waverley novel
|
| Note |
Reading ease score: 59.7 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
|
| Credits |
Produced by An Anonomous Volunteer, and David Widger
|
| Summary |
"The Talisman" by Sir Walter Scott is a historical novel set during the Crusades, likely written in the early 19th century. The narrative revolves around the contrasting lives and personalities of the Christian King Richard I of England and the Saracen leader Saladin, exploring themes of chivalry, honor, friendship, and fidelity amid the tumult of war. The story begins with the introduction of Sir Kenneth, a knight of Scotland, who undertakes a journey through the hostile landscapes of Palestine, showcasing the complexities of loyalties and cultural exchanges during this tumultuous era. At the start of the book, we meet the knight of the Couchant Leopard, Sir Kenneth, as he traverses the arid deserts near the Dead Sea. The setting evokes a sense of desolation and connection to biblical stories of divine wrath, reminding him of the fateful destruction of the ancient cities. Clad in heavy armor ill-suited for the climate, he reflects on his journey while grappling with the constraints of his circumstances. Soon he encounters a Saracen warrior, Sheerkohf, and after an initial confrontation that nearly ends in battle, they forge a temporary truce marked by mutual respect. This bond begins to form between two enemies, showcasing moments where cultural and religious animosities give way to camaraderie, even as they navigate the moral complexities of their conflicting identities. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
|
| Language |
English |
| LoC Class |
PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
|
| Subject |
Historical fiction
|
| Subject |
Knights and knighthood -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Crusades -- Third, 1189-1192 -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Jerusalem -- History -- Latin Kingdom, 1099-1244 -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Richard I, King of England, 1157-1199 -- Fiction
|
| Category |
Text |
| EBook-No. |
1377 |
| Release Date |
Jul 1, 1998 |
| Most Recently Updated |
Jan 27, 2021 |
| Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads |
537 downloads in the last 30 days. |
|
Project Gutenberg eBooks are always free!
|
