The Talisman & The Two Drovers, My Aunt Margaret's Mirror etc.
(2 Books In 1)
By Sir Walter Scott
Published by Henry Frowde: London 1912
"
The Talisman by Sir Walter Scott is a historical romance set during the Third Crusade, bringing together political intrigue, chivalric ideals, and the clash of cultures in the Holy Land. The story follows Sir Kenneth, a Scottish knight in service to King Richard I of England, who becomes entangled in a web of misunderstandings, loyalties, and diplomatic tensions among the Christian factions. When King Richard falls gravely ill, Sir Kenneth encounters the mysterious Saracen physician El Hakim, whose medical skills and enigmatic nature become central to the unfolding events. The novel explores the uneasy alliances and rivalries between Christian and Muslim leaders, blending real historical figures with fictional characters to create a richly layered tapestry of medieval politics.
As the plot unfolds, Sir Kenneth's honor is tested by accusations, betrayal, and a romantic attachment to Lady Edith Plantagenet, King Richard's cousin. Themes of loyalty, cultural respect, and the contrast between idealized chivalry and political reality run throughout the narrative. The titular talisman—a symbol of healing and hope—serves both as a literal cure and a metaphor for reconciliation between warring peoples. Scott's blend of vivid historical detail, romantic adventure, and moral reflection makes The Talisman both an engaging tale of knightly valor and a meditation on the possibility of peace in a time of crusade."
