In Freedom’s Cause

Description

In Freedom’s Cause is a masterfully written, extraordinary historical novel by G. A. Henty about Scotland’s struggle for independence at the end of the 13th century. First published in 1885, the book was highly appreciated, though controversial in many aspects – in the novel Henty harshly criticizes the acts of Edward I and expresses views that were not considered to be main-stream among historians in the 19th century.

The time in which the story of the novel is set is that of Robert Bruce and William Wallace, two iconic warriors and heroes of almost mythic significance in the history of Scotland. The novel depicts the two heroes and their deeds emphasizing their courage and their resourcefulness on the battle field just as much as in life generally, but it also presents tem as real human beings who have feelings, even doubts sometimes.

The story of the novel is indeed about the two heroes and the fight for independence, but the protagonist and narrator of the events is a young man called Archie who joins the fight because his estate was confiscated. Like in his other novels, Henty blends historical accuracy and fiction, putting an emphasis on human values through a story that is a real page turner.

Henty knew everything about history and warfare. He developed a keen interest for history as a child and, later on, he worked as a war correspondent for the Standard, reporting about the Austro-Italian War in 1866, the Franco-Prussian War in 1870 and many other armed conflicts in the 1870’s. His passion to write about troubled times led him to start writing historical novels – he is known to have authored over 120 pieces of historical fiction, short stories and full-length novels alike, his favorite periods being not only the 13th century, but the Punic Wars in the 3rd and 2nd century BC and more recent events such as the Napoleonic Wars.
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