The Golden Legend By: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)
The Golden Legend by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a captivating and thought-provoking piece of literature. Set in medieval Germany, the story follows the life of a young monk named Victor. Longfellow's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport the reader back in time, immersing them in a world of castles and cathedrals, knights and nuns. One of the most striking aspects of this book is Longfellow's mastery of language. His poetic prose flows seamlessly, painting beautiful pictures in the mind's eye. Every word feels carefully chosen, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. Longfellow's skillful use of imagery and metaphor creates a rich and vibrant atmosphere, making the story come alive. The characters in The Golden Legend are deeply complex and well-developed. Victor, the main protagonist, undergoes a transformation throughout the book, evolving from an innocent young monk to a courageous and passionate hero. His journey is a testament to the power of love and the importance of standing up for what one believes in. The supporting characters, such as the fair Lady Elsie and the wise old abbot, are equally compelling, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. At its heart, The Golden Legend is a story about faith, morality, and the battle between good and evil. Longfellow explores these themes with nuance and sensitivity, avoiding clichés and presenting a nuanced view of the human condition. Through the trials and tribulations faced by the characters, the reader is confronted with profound questions about morality, duty, and the nature of love. In addition to its thematic richness, The Golden Legend also serves as a historical document of medieval Europe. Longfellow meticulously researches and incorporates elements of that era, bringing authenticity and credibility to the narrative. From the descriptions of monastic life to the influence of the Church, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. The only minor drawback of The Golden Legend is its length, as it can occasionally feel dense and slow-paced. However, the depth and complexity of the story more than make up for this, and the payoff is well worth the investment of time and attention. Overall, The Golden Legend is a beautifully written and engaging book. Longfellow's mastery of language, thought-provoking themes, and well-crafted characters make it a captivating journey from beginning to end. Whether one is interested in historical fiction, poetry, or simply a compelling story, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. First Page: THE GOLDEN LEGEND BY HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW THE GOLDEN LEGEND PROLOGUE. THE SPIRE OF STRASBURG CATHEDRAL. Night and storm. LUCIFER, with the Powers of the Air, trying to tear down the Cross. Lucifer. HASTEN! hasten! O ye spirits! From its station drag the ponderous Cross of iron, that to mock us Is uplifted high in air! Voices. O, we cannot! For around it All the Saints and Guardian Angels Throng in legions to protect it; They defeat us everywhere! The Bells. Laudo Deum verum Plebem voco! Congrego clerum! Lucifer. Lower! lower! Hover downward! Seize the loud, vociferous bells, and Clashing, clanging, to the pavement Hurl them from their windy tower! Voices. All thy thunders Here are harmless! For these bells have been anointed, And baptized with holy water! They defy our utmost power. The Bells. Defunctos ploro! Pestem fugo! Festa decoro! Lucifer. Shake the casements! Break the painted Panes that flame with gold and crimson! Scatter them like leaves of Autumn, Swept away before the blast! Voices. O, we cannot! The Archangel Michael flames from every window, With the sword of fire that drove us Headlong, out of heaven, aghast! The Bells... Continue reading book >>

The Golden Legend By: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)

The Golden Legend by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a captivating and thought-provoking piece of literature. Set in medieval Germany, the story follows the life of a young monk named Victor. Longfellow's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport the reader back in time, immersing them in a world of castles and cathedrals, knights and nuns.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Longfellow's mastery of language. His poetic prose flows seamlessly, painting beautiful pictures in the mind's eye. Every word feels carefully chosen, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. Longfellow's skillful use of imagery and metaphor creates a rich and vibrant atmosphere, making the story come alive.

The characters in The Golden Legend are deeply complex and well-developed. Victor, the main protagonist, undergoes a transformation throughout the book, evolving from an innocent young monk to a courageous and passionate hero. His journey is a testament to the power of love and the importance of standing up for what one believes in. The supporting characters, such as the fair Lady Elsie and the wise old abbot, are equally compelling, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

At its heart, The Golden Legend is a story about faith, morality, and the battle between good and evil. Longfellow explores these themes with nuance and sensitivity, avoiding clichés and presenting a nuanced view of the human condition. Through the trials and tribulations faced by the characters, the reader is confronted with profound questions about morality, duty, and the nature of love.

In addition to its thematic richness, The Golden Legend also serves as a historical document of medieval Europe. Longfellow meticulously researches and incorporates elements of that era, bringing authenticity and credibility to the narrative. From the descriptions of monastic life to the influence of the Church, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

The only minor drawback of The Golden Legend is its length, as it can occasionally feel dense and slow-paced. However, the depth and complexity of the story more than make up for this, and the payoff is well worth the investment of time and attention.

Overall, The Golden Legend is a beautifully written and engaging book. Longfellow's mastery of language, thought-provoking themes, and well-crafted characters make it a captivating journey from beginning to end. Whether one is interested in historical fiction, poetry, or simply a compelling story, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

THE

GOLDEN LEGEND

HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW

THE GOLDEN LEGEND

PROLOGUE.

THE SPIRE OF STRASBURG CATHEDRAL.

Night and storm. LUCIFER, with the Powers of the Air, trying to tear down the Cross.

Lucifer. HASTEN! hasten! O ye spirits! From its station drag the ponderous Cross of iron, that to mock us Is uplifted high in air!

Voices. O, we cannot! For around it All the Saints and Guardian Angels Throng in legions to protect it; They defeat us everywhere!

The Bells. Laudo Deum verum Plebem voco! Congrego clerum!

Lucifer. Lower! lower! Hover downward! Seize the loud, vociferous bells, and Clashing, clanging, to the pavement Hurl them from their windy tower!

Voices. All thy thunders Here are harmless! For these bells have been anointed, And baptized with holy water! They defy our utmost power.

The Bells. Defunctos ploro! Pestem fugo! Festa decoro!

Lucifer. Shake the casements! Break the painted Panes that flame with gold and crimson! Scatter them like leaves of Autumn, Swept away before the blast!

Voices. O, we cannot! The Archangel Michael flames from every window, With the sword of fire that drove us Headlong, out of heaven, aghast!

The Bells... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Wikipedia – The Golden Legend

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