Russell Gurney by George MacDonald
Russell Gurney is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young man who struggles to find his place in the world. The book follows Russell's journey from childhood to adulthood as he navigates relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. Along the way, he learns important lessons about love, forgiveness, and self-discovery.
By George MacDonald · First published 1857 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Historical · 177 words
First lines
In that high country whither thou art gone, Right noble friend, thou walkest with thy peers, The gathered great of many a hundred years! Few are left like thee -- few, I say, not none, Else were thy England soon a Babylon, A land of outcry, mockery, and tears! Higher than law, a refuge from its fears, Wast thou, in whom embodied Justice shone. The smile that gracious broke on thy grand face Was like the sunrise of a morn serene Among the mountains, making sweet their awe. Thou both the gentle and the strong didst draw; Thee childhood loved, and on thy breast would lean, As, whence thou cam'st, it knew the lofty place.
What this Textopian page supports
Russell Gurney is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1857 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Historical, Philosophical
- Length: 177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Russell Gurney by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Russell Gurney?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The content reflects a mournful, contemplative tone, paying tribute to a deceased individual, typical of an elegy.
- Historical — References to historical figures and events suggest a connection to historical themes.
- Philosophical — The text explores themes of justice, morality, and the human condition, indicative of philosophical literature.
Tags
adventure · mystery · friendship · self-discovery · coming-of-age · fantasy · imagination · morality · family · love · courage · faith