The narrative explores the historical and cultural significance of a famous tavern in Eastcheap, known for its association with Shakespeare's characters, particularly Falstaff. The author reflects on the tradition of honoring literary figures, likening it to the veneration of saints in Catholicism, and expresses a desire to visit the tavern to uncover its remnants and history. Upon arriving in Eastcheap, the author notes the transformation of the area from a lively hub of revelry to a more mundane commercial district. The search for the Boar's Head Tavern leads to a local chronicler, who provides insights into its past, including its eventual decline and conversion into shops after a fire. The tavern's legacy is tied to the character of Dame Quickly and her patrons, particularly Falstaff, whose jovial spirit is fondly remembered. The author encounters a sexton who shares anecdotes about the tavern's history and its connection to notable figures, including a ghostly tale involving a former drawer at the tavern. Despite the rich history, the author struggles to find tangible evidence of the tavern's past, such as paintings or artifacts. Eventually, the author discovers a tobacco box and a goblet linked to the tavern, which serve as relics of its storied past. These items evoke the spirit of the revelry that once characterized the Boar's Head, and the author reflects on the enduring legacy of Falstaff and his companions. The narrative concludes with a sense of nostalgia for the past and an acknowledgment of the tavern's place in literary history, leaving room for future exploration and interpretation by others.
By Washington Irving · First published 1835 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Criticism, Travel Writing