Old Men at Pevensey by Rudyard Kipling

Name: Old Men at Pevensey
Author: Rudyard Kipling

The narrative unfolds in a historical context, focusing on the lives of two aging knights, Sir Richard and Sir Hugh, who return to Pevensey Castle after a long absence. They are greeted by De Aquila, a cunning and experienced knight, who shares news of political turmoil in England following the death of the Red King. The new King, Henry, faces rebellion from discontented barons, leading to a precarious situation for the knights. De Aquila reveals that they have brought gold back to Pevensey, which they must hide due to the brewing conflict. The knights, now old and physically impaired, decide to remain at Pevensey, where they engage in various activities to keep themselves occupied while keeping an eye on the political landscape. De Aquila is portrayed as a vigilant guardian, always alert to potential threats from both the sea and the land. As tensions rise, a messenger from the King arrives, but De Aquila dismisses him, suspecting treachery. The messenger, Fulke, is later captured and revealed to be involved in a conspiracy against De Aquila. The knights discover that Fulke has been gathering evidence against De Aquila, twisting his words to portray him as a traitor. In a clever turn of events, De Aquila decides to use Fulke's predicament to his advantage. De Aquila and his companions confront Fulke, who is forced to confess his misdeeds while dangling in a well. The knights leverage this situation to extract a promise from Fulke to clear their names with the King in exchange for his son’s safety. Fulke, desperate to save his son, agrees to De Aquila's terms, leading to a tense negotiation that highlights themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of feudal allegiances. The story culminates in a resolution where Fulke manages to appease the King, ensuring that De Aquila and his companions are not labeled as traitors. The narrative explores the dynamics of power, the shifting loyalties of the nobility, and the resilience of the aging knights as they navigate a world fraught with danger and intrigue. Ultimately, the tale reflects on the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the enduring bonds of friendship forged through shared trials.

By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1936 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Drama · 9,973 words

First lines

'It has naught to do with apes or Devils,'Sir Richard went on, in an / undertone. 'It concerns De Aquila, than whom there was never bolder nor / craftier, nor more hardy knight born. And remember he was an old, old / man at that time.'

'When? ' said Dan.

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Old Men at Pevensey is listed on Textopian as a novella by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1936 CE.

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Work type: Novella
Author: Rudyard Kipling
Date: 1936 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Literary Fiction
Length: 9,973 words
Structure: 1 section, 181 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, focusing on events and characters from the past, particularly during the Norman Conquest of England.
Adventure — The story involves quests, conflicts, and the adventures of knights, particularly Sir Richard and De Aquila.
Drama — The work explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships, particularly in the context of war and governance.
Fantasy — Elements of folklore and mythical undertones are present, particularly in the characterization and the setting.