Story Summary
Explore the epic Palmerin of England, a chivalric romance of twin princes separated at birth who reunite through knightly valor to reclaim their royal destiny.
The saga of Palmerin of England begins with the birth of twin princes, Palmerin and Florian, sons of the English King Don Duardos and the princess Flerida. Stolen shortly after birth, the brothers are separated by fate: Florian is raised by a savage in the deep wilderness, while Palmerin is brought up in the exotic court of the Sultan of Babylon. Despite their vastly different upbringings, the innate nobility of their blood eventually leads them both to the path of knighthood. Upon reaching manhood, the brothers embark on a series of magnificent adventures, eventually reuniting to defend their family and the Christian world. They face the formidable giant Dramazián, navigate the enchantments of the sorceress Urganda, and prove their valor in countless tournaments. Their journey concludes with the liberation of their parents and the restoration of their royal heritage, demonstrating that true chivalry is a quality of the soul that no circumstance can suppress.
The Moral
True nobility and virtue are inherent traits that will eventually manifest themselves, regardless of one's environment or upbringing.
“For the heart of a true knight is a flame that burns brightest when the night is at its darkest.”
Fun Fact
During the Spanish Golden Age, this book was so influential that Miguel de Cervantes considered it one of the few chivalric novels worthy of preservation for its artistic merit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Palmerin of England?
The story teaches that noble character is an intrinsic quality that cannot be hidden by external circumstances. It suggests that bravery and honor will always rise to the surface in those who possess a virtuous spirit.
Who is the author of Palmerin of England?
The work is widely attributed to the Portuguese writer Francisco de Moraes, who wrote it in the mid-16th century. It became one of the most popular chivalric romances of its time across Europe.
How does this story relate to Don Quixote?
In Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote, the character of the priest specifically saves Palmerin of England from the fire. He praises it for its excellent prose and sophisticated narrative structure, calling it a masterpiece.
What happens to the twins Palmerin and Florian?
The twins are separated at birth and raised in completely different environments—one in a royal court and one in the wild. They eventually meet as knights, recognize their shared blood, and fight together to save their kingdom.
What are the common themes in Palmerin of England?
The story focuses on the themes of chivalry, the power of bloodline, the struggle between good and evil magic, and the importance of brotherly loyalty. It epitomizes the ideals of the knight-errant common in medieval literature.
Is Palmerin of England part of a series?
Yes, it is part of the 'Palmerin' cycle, which includes several books following the lineage of Palmerin de Oliva. This specific installment is often considered the literary peak of the entire series.