John Herring: A West of England Romance. Volume 1 (of 3)

"John Herring: A West of England Romance, Volume 1" by S. Baring-Gould is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the rustic backdrop of Devon, England, introducing a cast of colorful characters, including the eccentric Cobbledick family who embody a savage and primitive way of life. The narrative focuses on various societal themes, particularly the contrast between the civilised world and the primitive conditions of the Cobbledicks, as well as discussions around personal property and social expectations. The opening of the book sets the stage with a humorous yet poignant introduction to the peculiar Cobbledick clan, who live in a makeshift home within a cyder cask and engage in primitive behavior largely disconnected from the surrounding community. The patriarch, Grizzly Cobbledick, struggles with emerging notions of personal property and societal norms, while his daughter, Joyce, navigates her harsh life under her father's brutal authority. An accident involving a stagecoach introduces Mirelle, a young lady from a contrasting social background, kicking off a series of events that intertwine the lives of the rustic Cobbledicks with the more refined society they largely avoid. The beginning establishes a rich setting and a vibrant story that explores themes of civilization, property, and social structure, inviting readers to delve deeper into the complex tapestry of lives depicted in the tale.