The Well at the World's End: A Tale

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

169

Title

The Well at the World's End: A Tale

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In a realm where four brothers seek adventure beyond their father's small kingdom, the youngest, Ralph, embarks on a perilous quest to find the Well at the World's End. Guided by a mysterious token and accompanied by the valiant Ursula, they traverse deadly wastes, battle monsters, and uncover ancient secrets. A tale of courage, love, and redemption, this classic fantasy adventure celebrates chivalry and the enduring power of hope against overwhelming odds.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the small kingdom of Upmeads, William Morris's *The Well at the World's End* chronicles the legendary journey of King Peter's youngest son, Ralph, and his beloved Ursula. Dissatisfied with their sheltered lives, the four royal brothers draw lots to choose their paths; Ralph and Ursula are destined to seek the mythical Well at the World's End, while their elder brothers pursue other adventures. Their quest takes them through the perilous Wood Perilous, the bustling Burg of the Four Friths, and the Castle of Abundance, where they learn of a mysterious Lady who once sought the Well. The journey is fraught with supernatural and mortal dangers. They traverse the deadly Dry Waste, a desert littered with the corpses of previous seekers, and encounter the haunting Dry Tree, a monument to fallen knights. After surviving the treacherous Sea of Molten Rocks and the hostile Lord of Utterbol, they finally reach the Well. Upon drinking its waters, they gain the strength and resolve to return home. The return journey is as arduous as the outward one, but Ralph and Ursula emerge as heroes. They are welcomed back to Upmeads, where Ralph is crowned King. The tale concludes with their just and peaceful rule, the birth of their children, and their eventual peaceful deaths. Through their journey, Morris explores themes of love, courage, the cost of adventure, and the enduring legacy of kindness and valor, illustrating how a single act of seeking the unknown can bring peace and prosperity to an entire land.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/169.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg169.epub

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Categories

• Adventure
• Fantasy