The Last of the Legions

Name: The Last of the Legions
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative unfolds in Roman Britain, where the viceroy, Pontus, receives alarming orders from Rome to withdraw all legions from Britain to face a growing threat from barbarian tribes. This decision devastates him, as he realizes the implications for the stability of the region. He confers with Licinius Crassus, the military leader, who shares his concerns about the chaos that will ensue once the Roman presence is removed. As the viceroy prepares to execute the orders, a delegation of British leaders—Celticus, Caradoc, and Regnus—arrives to petition for self-governance. They express their desire to return to their ancient laws and traditions, arguing that they have the capability to govern themselves. The viceroy acknowledges their request but warns them of the dangers posed by the Picts and Saxons, emphasizing that without Roman military support, they will be vulnerable to invasion and internal strife. The British leaders initially feel a sense of hope at the prospect of autonomy but quickly realize the gravity of the situation as the viceroy confirms that the legions will depart imminently. They plead for the legions to remain, citing the imminent threat from pirates and northern tribes. However, the viceroy remains resolute, stating that Rome must prioritize its own security. As the legions march away, the British leaders face the harsh reality of their newfound freedom. Celticus is brutally killed by pirates, Regnus meets a tragic end at the hands of invading tribes, and Caradoc is enslaved. The once-thriving land of Britain descends into chaos, marked by bloodshed and destruction, as the Roman influence fades. The story concludes with a somber reflection on the fate of Britain, which, despite eventually flourishing again, does so without the Britons or their descendants inheriting the land they once called home.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1922 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Military Fiction, Drama · 3,332 words

First lines

Pontus, the Roman viceroy, sat in the atrium of his palatial villa by the Thames, and he looked with perplexity at the scroll of papyrus which he had just unrolled. Before him stood the messenger who had brought it, a swarthy little Italian, whose black eyes were glazed with want of sleep, and his olive features darker still from dust and sweat. The viceroy was looking fixedly at him, yet he saw him not, so full was his mind of this sudden and most unexpected order. To him it seemed as if the solid earth had given way beneath his feet. His life and the work of his life had come to irremediable ruin.

"Very good," he said at last in a hard dry voice, "you can go."

What this Textopian page supports

The Last of the Legions is listed on Textopian as a novella by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1922 CE.

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Work type: Novella
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1922 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Military Fiction, Drama, Adventure, Political Fiction
Length: 3,332 words
Structure: 1 section, 58 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, focusing on the Roman Empire's influence in Britain and the political dynamics of the time.
Military Fiction — The plot revolves around military orders, the movement of legions, and the implications of warfare on society.
Drama — The story explores intense emotional and political conflicts between the Roman authorities and the Britons.
Adventure — The themes of conflict and survival amidst the backdrop of impending barbarian invasions create an adventurous atmosphere.