The Scarlet Pimpernel (Royal Collector's Edition) (Case Laminate Hardcover with Jacket)

By Emmuska Orczy

Book Overview

The Scarlet Pimpernel is set during the early stages of the French Revolution. Sir Percy Blakeney leads a secret society known as the "League of the Scarlet Pimpernel," dedicated to rescuing French aristocrats from the Reign of Terror's guillotine. As the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel, he hides behind his persona as a dull-witted nobleman to carry out daring rescues. When Marguerite is blackmailed by the cunning French envoy Chauvelin, she unwittingly aids in exposing the Pimpernel's identity, only to later discover, to her shock, that her husband is the man behind the mask. Racing against time and danger, Marguerite embarks on a journey to France to warn Percy and save him from his enemies, reigniting the love and trust between them.

The Scarlet Pimpernel holds significant historical importance as one of the earliest works to introduce the concept of a masked hero with a secret identity, laying the foundation for the modern superhero genre. Its immense popularity not only revived the theme of classic villainy in literature but also inspired future characters such as Zorro, Batman, and Superman. The Scarlet Pimpernel's legacy endures, with its premise of a hero hiding behind a meek persona influencing countless stories in serial fiction and superhero narratives.

This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1778784704
• ISBN13: 9781778784705
• Release Date: October 2024
• Publisher: Royal Classics
• Length: 228 Pages
• Weight: 1.11 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Suspense to the end!

The old language, with smatterings of French and bits of 1792 Eastern European culture, was a bit challenging. Nonetheless, it was a pleasurable read. (It's required reading for homeschool 9th grade English class) A well written work!

A Laugh, and A Song

For those of you who have read the book you will understand what my title means. The wonderful laugh that is ready to send terror through the heart of the agent of the French Revolution, and chills of excitement and happiness through yours. And a song bearing despair and hope. This is a wonderful book! I started and finished it within a day. The first chapter is a little gruesome but not overly so, seeing that it is set in the French Revolution. If you keep reading though, you are caught within two chapters. The entire book is an emotional roller coaster. So if you don't like books that will keep you up till all hours of the night reading, this book is not for you. The Scarlet Pimpernel is one of the most wonderful men that ever didn't live. And so let us all break out and ask, "Is he in Heaven? Is he in Hell?" "That demmed elusive Pimpernel." -E

Great Edition

This is one of my favorite books. I love the story and was excited to finally own my own copy. This edition is really great because it is lightly annotated. There are one or two footnotes on just about every page, defining french terms or just uncommon words. This makes reading that much more enjoyable because one understands more. If you enjoy the book, there is a musical with an amazing soundtrack by the same name.

Orczy has woven a stirring French Revolution-era tale.

I picked up this book when I was fourteen and have read it numerous times since. Orczy's dramatic writing fully captures the drama and the tragedy of the French Revolution. This novel has something for everyone: political intrigue, adventure and romance. I particularly appreciate the development of her three main characters. They live lives that require superhuman intellect and courage. All of them find themselves searching for something: whether it be love, power or heroic fulfillment. Orczy has a true talent for writing. She envelopes her plot with dramatic dressing. One can see this by reading the novel's first sentence: "The seething, surging, mumuring crowd of people, human only in name..." If you enjoy this book, I recommend you read her other titles in the series. Most are not in print, but usually libraries have some or most of the hard to get titles. My other favorite novel in the series is The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel. It carries the same premise as the first book but incorporates more edge-of-your seat excitement.