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In the Days of Chivalry: A Tale of the Times of the Black Prince

Written by Evelyn Everett-Green

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About this book

"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.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in In the Days of Chivalry: A Tale of the Times of the Black Prince, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • adventurous
  • historical
  • heroic

Evelyn Everett-Green's "In the Days of Chivalry" is a late 19th-century historical novel set during the era of the Black Prince, following the journey of twin brothers, Gaston and Raymond De Brocas. Living as humble millers, the twins are secretly heirs to a noble lineage, driven by a fierce desire to reclaim their ancestral lands and honor from their family's antagonist, the Sieur de Navailles. Their yearning for adventure and justice is ignited by memories of their mother's words and a pivotal encounter with a scornful nobleman, propelling them from their obscure life into the uncertain world of medieval chivalry. The narrative promises an exploration of identity, familial duty, and the pursuit of destiny against a backdrop of historical conflict and personal ambition, as the brothers strive to restore their rightful inheritance in England.

"Our blood calls to us from the very stones of Basildene, Raymond! It is a heritage not to be forgotten, though we grind flour today."

Key themes

Chivalry and Honor
This theme is central to the novel, set in the 'Days of Chivalry.' It explores the ideals of knighthood, including courage, loyalty, justice, courtesy, and the protection of the weak. The twins' journey is a quest to embody these virtues, not just to claim a title, but to live up to the noble code, contrasting true honor with the empty pride of characters like the Sieur de Navailles.
Identity and Legacy
The core of the twins' internal conflict and external quest revolves around their true identity as De Brocas heirs, despite their peasant upbringing. The novel explores how one's heritage, past, and aspirations shape who they become, and the weight of a family legacy that demands reclamation. They must reconcile their present reality with their perceived noble past.
Justice and Reclamation
Driven by the injustice of the Sieur de Navailles' usurpation of their lands, the twins' quest is fundamentally about seeking justice. It explores the idea of rightful ownership, the restoration of order, and the punishment of wrongdoers. Their journey is not just for personal gain, but for the restoration of a moral balance that has been disrupted.

Worth discussing

How does the novel define 'chivalry' and 'nobility'? Are these definitions still relevant today?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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