Carl Svenske: Historisk berättelse från frihetstiden

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

65580

Title

Carl Svenske: Historisk berättelse från frihetstiden

Language

sv

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set against the backdrop of King Frederick I's coronation festivities in Stockholm, this historical narrative follows the young soldier Carl Svenske as he navigates the treacherous politics of the Swedish court and the brutal realities of war. Blending courtly intrigue with intense battlefield action, the story explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh cost of freedom during a turbulent era in Swedish history.

Summary up to 500 words

Set against the backdrop of King Frederick I's coronation festivities in Stockholm, *Carl Svenske: Historisk berättelse från frihetstiden* by Gustaf Björlin contrasts the city's lavish celebration with the grim reality of war on the frontlines. The narrative follows the protagonist, Carl Svenske, a common soldier whose personal history is marked by the tragic loss of his family during the conflict. While the capital buzzes with the preparations for the royal assembly, Svenske finds himself drawn into the chaotic and desperate defense of a Swedish redoubt against a determined Russian army. The story quickly shifts from the glittering halls of the court to the smoke-filled trenches, where Svenske witnesses the stark duality of human nature: the bravery of veterans like Willebrand and the cowardice of others who flee at the first sign of danger. A central tension arises from the revelation of treason within the Swedish ranks, specifically involving Baron Meijersdorff. Meijersdorff attempts to sabotage the Swedish defense to facilitate a Russian victory, motivated by personal grievances and a desire to avoid a heroic death. Svenske confronts this betrayal, leading to a violent struggle that highlights the complex moral choices required to survive political upheaval. As the battle intensifies, the narrative delves into Svenske's backstory, revealing his deep-seated desire for redemption and honor. He recalls the death of his father and sister at the hands of Russian forces, a memory that fuels his resolve. The text vividly describes the combat, from the initial artillery exchanges to the brutal hand-to-hand fighting that ensues when the Swedish lines begin to crumble. Despite the overwhelming odds and the collapse of their comrades, a small group of soldiers, including Svenske, holds the line, turning every building into a fortress. The novel captures the resilience of the common soldier, juxtaposing the festive atmosphere of the capital with the grim reality of war. Through intimate character moments and vivid descriptions of combat, Björlin offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of those who fought for Sweden's independence. The story concludes with a poignant reflection on loss and the enduring spirit of those who refuse to yield, even as the redoubt faces imminent collapse. The work serves as both a historical account and a meditation on honor, betrayal, and the cost of freedom.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/65580.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg65580.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-07-02 21:59 UTC

Categories

• History
• Fiction