Saint Veronica's Kerchief
The novel revolves around a young woman who lives on the outskirts of society and has a deep connection with nature. She possesses a magical kerchief that allows her to heal others through its power. The story explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and the human desire for connection.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1908 · Genre: Fantasy, Religious, Historical Fiction · 9 chapters · 17,553 words
First lines
During one of the latter years of Emperor Tiberius' reign, a poor vine-dresser and his wife came and settled in a solitary hut among the Sabine mountains. They were strangers, and lived in absolute solitude without ever receiving a visit from a human being. But one morning when the laborer opened his door, he found, to his astonishment, that an old woman sat huddled up on the threshold. She was wrapped in a plain gray mantle, and looked very poor. Nevertheless, she impressed him as being so respect-compelling, as she rose and came to meet him, that it made him think of what the legends had to say about goddesses who, in the form of old women, had visited mortals.
What this Textopian page supports
Saint Veronica's Kerchief is listed on Textopian as a novel by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Religious, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Literary Fiction
- Length: 17,553 words
- Structure: 9 chapters, 355 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Saint Veronica's Kerchief by Selma Lagerlof
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Saint Veronica's Kerchief?
- How does this novel by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Fantasy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Peace Of God by Selma Lagerlof
- The Wise Mens Well by Selma Lagerlof
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- Carl by Frank R. Stockton
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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative incorporates magical elements and supernatural occurrences that are central to the plot.
- Religious — Themes of faith, sacrifice, and divine intervention are prevalent throughout the story.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and context reflect historical events and cultural aspects of the time period.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a journey that involves challenges and exploration.
Tags
Fiction · Novel · Swedish Literature · Realism · Symbolism · Mystery · Religion · Christianity · Spirituality · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Coming of Age