Sue, Eugène
"The Carlovingian Coins; Or, The Daughters of Charlemagne" by Eugène Sue is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The work is part of a larger series titled "The Mysteries of the People," encompassing narratives that explore the lives of a proletarian family throughout history. This particular tale focuses on the experiences of Vortigern, a young Breton hostage, and his grandfather Amael as they navigate the shifting dynamics of power in Charlemagne's empire and the conflicts surrounding their homeland of Brittany. At the start of the novel, Vortigern and his grandfather are introduced as they approach Aix-la-Chapelle, where the powerful Emperor Charles reigns. The narrative dives into their concerns about their family back in Brittany, amplifying Vortigern's inner turmoil about his role as a hostage amidst the conquered lands. The interaction between Vortigern and the jovial Octave reveals the societal tensions and complexities of loyalty and identity between the Bretons and the Frankish rulers. As the plot unfolds, the reader is presented with a vivid portrayal of court life, the characters’ backstories, and Vortigern's budding connection with the Emperor's daughter, Thetralde, all while setting the stage for larger themes of conquest, identity, and love amidst the backdrop of Charlemagne's reign. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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