A Monk of Fife By: Andrew Lang (1844-1912)
A Monk of Fife by Andrew Lang is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous times of the Scottish Wars of Independence. The story follows the life of the brave and innocent Norman Leslie, a young monk from the Abbey of Kilwinning, as he embarks on a journey that will forever change his life. Set in the 14th century, Lang beautifully recreates the political and social atmosphere of the era, immersing readers in the struggle for Scottish independence. The narrative is richly detailed, with vivid descriptions of the landscapes and towns that Leslie encounters along his path. Through his eyes, we witness the horrors of war, the valiant efforts of patriots, and the enduring strength of the Scottish people in the face of adversity. One of the most remarkable aspects of this novel is Lang's skillful blending of fact and fiction. By incorporating real historical figures such as Sir William Wallace and Sir James Douglas, Lang adds depth and authenticity to the story. The interactions between Leslie and these iconic characters provide a unique perspective on their lives and the impact they had on the fight for independence. The characterization in A Monk of Fife is superb. Norman Leslie is a protagonist that readers will instantly connect with and root for. His journey from a sheltered monk to a warrior is captivating, and his unwavering loyalty and determination make him a hero worth cheering on. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, portraying a diverse range of personalities, motivations, and conflicts. Aside from the strong characters, the novel also explores significant themes such as love, sacrifice, and the search for identity. As Leslie faces numerous challenges and grapples with his own beliefs and desires, readers are compelled to reflect on their own values and choices. Lang seamlessly weaves these themes into the narrative, making the story not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. The only minor flaw in this otherwise exceptional novel is the occasional slow pacing. At times, the story becomes more focused on the history and politics of the era, causing the plot to temporarily lose momentum. However, this is easily forgiven considering the extensive research that Lang clearly undertook to provide readers with an accurate portrayal of the time period. Overall, A Monk of Fife is an enthralling historical novel that transports readers to medieval Scotland and brings to life the heroes and struggles of the Scottish Wars of Independence. Andrew Lang's meticulous attention to detail, compelling characters, and skillful storytelling make this book a must-read for history enthusiasts and fans of adventure alike. First Page: A MONK OF FIFE Being the Chronicle written by Norman Leslie of Pitcullo, concerning marvellous deeds that befell in the realm of France, in the years of our redemption, MCCCCXXIX XXXI. Now first done into English out of the French by Andrew Lang. TO HENRIETTA LANG My Dear Aunt, To you, who read to me stories from the History of France, before I could read them for myself, this Chronicle is affectionately dedicated. Yours ever, ANDREW LANG. PREFACE Norman Leslie of Pitcullo, whose narrative the reader has in his hands, refers more than once to his unfinished Latin Chronicle. That work, usually known as "The Book of Pluscarden," has been edited by Mr. Felix Skene, in the series of "Historians of Scotland" (vol. vii.). To Mr. Skene's introduction and notes the curious are referred. Here it may suffice to say that the original MS. of the Latin Chronicle is lost; that of six known manuscript copies none is older than 1480; that two of these copies contain a Prologue; and that the Prologue tells us all that has hitherto been known about the author. The date of the lost Latin original is 1461, as the author himself avers. He also, in his Prologue, states the purpose of his work. At the bidding of an unnamed Abbot of Dunfermline, who must have been Richard Bothwell, he is to abbreviate "The Great Chronicle," and "bring it up to date," as we now say... Continue reading book >>

A Monk of Fife By: Andrew Lang (1844-1912)

A Monk of Fife by Andrew Lang is a captivating historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous times of the Scottish Wars of Independence. The story follows the life of the brave and innocent Norman Leslie, a young monk from the Abbey of Kilwinning, as he embarks on a journey that will forever change his life.

Set in the 14th century, Lang beautifully recreates the political and social atmosphere of the era, immersing readers in the struggle for Scottish independence. The narrative is richly detailed, with vivid descriptions of the landscapes and towns that Leslie encounters along his path. Through his eyes, we witness the horrors of war, the valiant efforts of patriots, and the enduring strength of the Scottish people in the face of adversity.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this novel is Lang's skillful blending of fact and fiction. By incorporating real historical figures such as Sir William Wallace and Sir James Douglas, Lang adds depth and authenticity to the story. The interactions between Leslie and these iconic characters provide a unique perspective on their lives and the impact they had on the fight for independence.

The characterization in A Monk of Fife is superb. Norman Leslie is a protagonist that readers will instantly connect with and root for. His journey from a sheltered monk to a warrior is captivating, and his unwavering loyalty and determination make him a hero worth cheering on. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, portraying a diverse range of personalities, motivations, and conflicts.

Aside from the strong characters, the novel also explores significant themes such as love, sacrifice, and the search for identity. As Leslie faces numerous challenges and grapples with his own beliefs and desires, readers are compelled to reflect on their own values and choices. Lang seamlessly weaves these themes into the narrative, making the story not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

The only minor flaw in this otherwise exceptional novel is the occasional slow pacing. At times, the story becomes more focused on the history and politics of the era, causing the plot to temporarily lose momentum. However, this is easily forgiven considering the extensive research that Lang clearly undertook to provide readers with an accurate portrayal of the time period.

Overall, A Monk of Fife is an enthralling historical novel that transports readers to medieval Scotland and brings to life the heroes and struggles of the Scottish Wars of Independence. Andrew Lang's meticulous attention to detail, compelling characters, and skillful storytelling make this book a must-read for history enthusiasts and fans of adventure alike.

First Page:

A MONK OF FIFE Being the Chronicle written by Norman Leslie of Pitcullo, concerning marvellous deeds that befell in the realm of France, in the years of our redemption, MCCCCXXIX XXXI. Now first done into English out of the French by Andrew Lang.

TO HENRIETTA LANG

My Dear Aunt, To you, who read to me stories from the History of France, before I could read them for myself, this Chronicle is affectionately dedicated.

Yours ever,

ANDREW LANG.

PREFACE

Norman Leslie of Pitcullo, whose narrative the reader has in his hands, refers more than once to his unfinished Latin Chronicle. That work, usually known as "The Book of Pluscarden," has been edited by Mr. Felix Skene, in the series of "Historians of Scotland" (vol. vii.). To Mr. Skene's introduction and notes the curious are referred. Here it may suffice to say that the original MS. of the Latin Chronicle is lost; that of six known manuscript copies none is older than 1480; that two of these copies contain a Prologue; and that the Prologue tells us all that has hitherto been known about the author.

The date of the lost Latin original is 1461, as the author himself avers. He also, in his Prologue, states the purpose of his work. At the bidding of an unnamed Abbot of Dunfermline, who must have been Richard Bothwell, he is to abbreviate "The Great Chronicle," and "bring it up to date," as we now say... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
History
Literature

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Wikipedia – Andrew Lang
Wikipedia – A Monk of Fife

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