The King's Grave by Selma Lagerlof
The novel revolves around a young woman who returns to her childhood home after being away for many years. She becomes embroiled in the lives of the local people and uncovers secrets about their past. The story explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1907 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Fantasy · 8,200 words
First lines
It was at the time of year when the heather is red. It grew over the sand-hills in thick clumps. From low treelike stems close-growing green branches raised their hardy evergreen leaves and unfading flowers. They seemed not to be made of ordinary, juicy flower substance, but of dry, hard scales. They were very insignificant in size and shape; nor was their fragrance of much account. Children of the open moors, they had not unfolded in the still air where lilies open their alabaster petals; nor did they grow in the rich soil from which roses draw nourishment for their swelling crowns. What made them flowers was really their color, for they were glowing red. They had received the color-giving sunshine in plenty. They were no pallid cellar growth; the blessed gaiety and strength of health lay over all the blossoming heath.
What this Textopian page supports
The King's Grave is listed on Textopian as a novel by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Tragedy
- Length: 8,200 words
- Structure: 1 section, 102 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The King's Grave by Selma Lagerlof
- 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 The King's Grave?
- How does this novel by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores deep themes of love, loss, and the human condition through rich character development and intricate prose.
- Romance — The central plot revolves around the relationship between Tönne and Jofrid, highlighting their emotional struggles and desires.
- Fantasy — Elements of the supernatural are present, particularly with the character of King Atle and the mystical aspects of the forest.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and cultural references reflect a historical context, exploring themes of social class and tradition.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Swedish Literature · Nobel Prize Winner · 19th Century Setting · Folklore · Mythology · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Love Story · Romance