VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22275

Title

VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set against the backdrop of the Crimean War, this novel follows Polson Jervase, a young man who abandons his wealthy family's expectations to enlist as a private soldier. Blending rustic English life with the grim realities of battle, the story explores themes of duty, class, and the transformative power of war, offering a poignant tribute to the common soldiers who fought for their country.

Summary up to 500 words

David Christie Murray's *VC — A Chronicle of Castle Barfield and of the Crimea* opens on a stormy March evening in 1854, where Jack Jervase, a local landowner, breaks the news of war to his neighbors in the Peak District. The conflict arises from Queen Victoria's declaration against the Czar of Russia, marking the first major war in Europe in nearly thirty years. Jack's son, Polson, is deeply affected by this news. Despite his father's secret financial support for his brother's military ambitions and the social risks involved, Polson decides to enlist as a private in the dragoons, abandoning his hopes for a military commission. His fiancée, Irene, supports his decision, recognizing the nobility of his sacrifice. Upon arriving at the barracks, Polson confronts the harsh realities of military life among rough recruits, including a Sergeant who later earns a Victoria Cross for his bravery at the front. The narrative transitions to the Crimea, where Polson and his comrades endure the brutal hardships of camp life, the chaos of battle, and the suffering of the wounded at Scutari. Irene serves as a compassionate nurse on the ship and in the field, caring for the injured soldiers, including Polson, who is wounded by a Russian bullet. Her dedication earns her the deep respect and worship of the men she tends to. The story culminates in the triumphant return of the surviving soldiers to London. In a grand ceremony in Hyde Park, Queen Victoria honors the men of the Crimea. Polson Jervase, though wounded and humbled by his experiences, receives the Queen's medal. The novel concludes with a reflection on the valor of the common soldier and the enduring legacy of their sacrifice. Murray contrasts the glory of the public ceremony with the personal costs paid by the men who fought, highlighting the fire of God that burns out meannesses and the profound transformation war brings to those who endure it.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction