Marmion: A Tale Of Flodden Field

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

4010

Title

Marmion: A Tale Of Flodden Field

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in the turbulent era of the Battle of Flodden, this romantic verse tale follows the gallant but flawed knight Lord Marmion. Blending historical drama with supernatural elements and chivalric romance, the narrative explores themes of honor, fate, and the tragic cost of war against the Scottish forces.

Summary up to 500 words

Walter Scott's 'Marmion: A Tale of Flodden Field' opens with a minstrel in Ettrick Forest reflecting on the passing of national heroes like Pitt and Fox before introducing the protagonist, Lord Marmion. The narrative follows Marmion as he travels north to Scotland, guided by the mysterious Palmer, Sir David Lindesay. Along the way, he encounters heralds and is hosted at Crichtoun Castle, where he learns of the impending conflict between England and Scotland. A supernatural warning from the ghost of St. John the Evangelist advises King James IV against war, but the battle proceeds regardless. At Flodden Field, Marmion fights valiantly for England but suffers a fatal wound. In his dying moments, he reconciles with Lady Clare, revealing his past errors and expressing his loyalty. Despite his bravery, he dies alone on the battlefield, his body later mistaken for a peasant by looters. The poem concludes with the defeat of the English host and a reflection on the enduring legend of the battle, celebrating the chivalric spirit even in defeat. Scott weaves historical events with romantic elements, using the tragic fate of Marmion to explore themes of duty, honor, and the futility of war. The work stands as a testament to the chivalric ideals of the era, capturing the sorrow and heroism of the Battle of Flodden.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/4010.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg4010.epub

Removed after upload

Downloaded at

2026-07-07 17:40 UTC

Categories

• History
• Poetry