The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 20

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

30849

Title

The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 20

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A witty and romantic adventure following Anne de Saint-Yves, a French prisoner of war in Edinburgh who uses his charm and skills as a toy-maker to navigate captivity. The narrative explores themes of friendship, escape, and love as he befriends fellow prisoners, interacts with stern officers, and ultimately finds happiness with his beloved Flora, blending historical setting with Stevenson's signature humor and warmth.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in Edinburgh in 1813, this volume presents the adventures of Anne de Saint-Yves, a French soldier captured during the Napoleonic Wars and imprisoned in the Castle of Edinburgh. Unlike his fellow prisoners, who are largely ignorant peasants, Anne possesses a command of English and a talent for craftsmanship. He leverages these skills to survive captivity, trading handmade toys and articles to sympathetic visitors for delicacies and comforts. His imprisonment is marked by the humiliation of a ridiculous yellow uniform and the indignity of frequent shaving, yet he maintains his dignity and finds solace in the camaraderie of his fellow prisoners and the attention of the officers, particularly Major Chevenix, a rigid but upright man. Anne's life in the castle is transformed by his encounters with Major Chevenix and the charming young lady Flora. While Chevenix represents the stern discipline of the British military, Flora embodies the romantic ideal. Anne's journey involves daring escapes, humorous interactions with rustic countrymen, and comedic mishaps involving disguises and mistaken identities, often aided by his loyal servant, Mr. Rowley. The narrative balances the grim reality of war and imprisonment with lighthearted romance and camaraderie. A pivotal moment occurs when Anne, hiding in a hen-house to avoid capture, is discovered by Flora, leading to a joyful reunion and the eventual progression of their relationship. As the Hundred Days unfold following Napoleon's escape from Elba, Anne faces a profound dilemma: whether to return to France or remain in England, where he has found a new home and family. He is now a naturalized Englishman with a stake in the country's laws and customs. The narrative culminates in his marriage to Flora and a poignant farewell to his friend Ronald as he departs for the Low Countries to join Wellington's forces. Through Stevenson's rich prose, the tale offers a unique perspective on the human spirit's resilience, the complexities of international conflict, and the enduring power of love and friendship, illustrating how personal bonds can transcend the divisions of war.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction