The Legend of Reor by Selma Lagerlof
The story revolves around a young woman who returns to her childhood home after many years away and becomes embroiled in the local legend of a mythical figure known as Reor. The narrative explores themes of identity, community, and the power of storytelling.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1906 · Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Nature Writing · 2,026 words
First lines
There was a man called Reor. He was from Fuglekarr in the parish of Svarteborg, and was considered the best shot in the county. He was baptized when King Olof rooted out the old belief, and was ever afterwards an eager Christian. He was freeborn, but poor; handsome, but not tall; strong, but gentle. He tamed young horses with but a look and a word, and could lure birds to him with a call. He dwelt mostly in the woods, and nature had great power over him. The growing of the plants and the budding of the trees, the play of the hares in the forest's open places and the fish's leap in the calm lake at evening, the conflict of the seasons and the changes of the weather, these were the chief events in his life. Sorrow and joy he found in such things and not in that which happened among men.
What this Textopian page supports
The Legend of Reor is listed on Textopian as a short story by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1906 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Nature Writing, Romance, Mythology
- Length: 2,026 words
- Structure: 1 section, 19 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Legend of Reor by Selma Lagerlof
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative includes magical elements such as a giant's daughter and a talking snake, which are characteristic of the fantasy genre.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a journey through the forest, encountering various challenges and discoveries.
- Nature Writing — The text emphasizes the beauty and power of nature, reflecting a deep connection between the protagonist and the natural world.
- Romance — The story involves the protagonist's desire to possess and marry the giant's daughter, highlighting themes of love and companionship.
Tags
Fiction · Fantasy · Adventure · Swedish Literature · Mythology · Legends · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Quest Narrative · Magic Realism · Historical Fiction · 19th Century Setting