At Aboukir and Acre: A Story of Napoleon's Invasion of Egypt

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22224

Title

At Aboukir and Acre: A Story of Napoleon's Invasion of Egypt

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set against the backdrop of Napoleon's invasion of Egypt, this adventure follows Edgar Blagrove, a linguistically gifted British officer navigating political intrigue, naval warfare, and desert life. Blending historical fact with youthful heroism, the story captures the tension of the era through Edgar's eyes as he witnesses the fall of French fleets, defends British interests, and forms enduring bonds with local tribes.

Summary up to 500 words

Set against the backdrop of Napoleon's invasion of Egypt, G. A. Henty's *At Aboukir and Acre* chronicles the coming-of-age journey of Edgar Blagrove, a boy born in Alexandria to a British merchant. Fluent in multiple languages and trained in the art of boxing, Edgar navigates a volatile world where European power clashes with local resistance. The narrative begins with Edgar's friendship with Sidi, the son of a Bedouin sheik, as they observe the British fleet blockading the French. The story vividly depicts the destruction of the French fleet by Admiral Nelson at the Battle of the Nile, an event that seals the fate of Napoleon's Egyptian campaign. Edgar's personal development is central to the plot, particularly his conflict with Condor, a bullying midshipman who preys on younger officers. In a decisive boxing match aboard the ship *Tigre*, Edgar defeats Condor, restoring order and demonstrating that courage and skill triumph over brute force. This victory marks a turning point in Edgar's character, earning him the respect of his peers and the admiration of the renowned Sir Sidney Smith. As the war winds down with the Treaty of Amiens, Edgar leverages his linguistic abilities and naval experience to secure a position as vice-consul at Alexandria. The novel highlights themes of loyalty, bravery, and the harsh realities of naval life, from the rigors of shipboard discipline to the heat of the Egyptian desert. Through Edgar's eyes, the reader witnesses the heroic defense of Acre by Sir Sidney Smith and the eventual retreat of the French army. The story concludes with Edgar establishing a successful business in Alexandria, maintaining his ties to his Arab friends, and serving as a vital link between Britain and the East, embodying the spirit of adventure and duty that defines Henty's historical fiction.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Adventure
• History
• Fiction