Quentin Durward

Sir Walter Scott wrote a historical tale called Quentin Durward which came out for the first time in 1823. The story takes place in the year 1468 when feudalism and knighthood were coming to an end. King Louis XI of France is trying to get the rich people of Flanders to fight against his disloyal vassal the Duke of Burgundy. Quentin Durward the name-giving hero is a Scottish shooter who has come to Tours to join the army. Louis XI keeps his uncle as one of his Scottish bodyguards. The king in disguise takes Quentin to breakfast and gives him money. Quentin gets caught up in Louis XIs political schemes and those of his enemies like the Duke of Burgundy and his beautiful daughter Isabelle. Isabelle comes to trust Quentin as a friend and adviser. To protect her and her family he must navigate the dangerous waters of court intrigue. The book is known for its vivid historical setting and colourful characters like Louis XI who is shown to be a smart and cruel king.