35 pages 1 hour read

The Ballad of the White Horse

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1911

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

G. K. Chesterton

The Ballad of the White Horse

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1911
Book Details
Pages

92

Format

Poem • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction
Setting

England • 9th Century

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Perseverance

Nation
Topic
World History
Publication Year

1911

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Ballad of the White Horse by G.K. Chesterton is an epic poem detailing the legendary story of Alfred the Great's battle against the Danes, emphasizing themes of faith and divine intervention. Fleeing their invasion, Alfred receives a vision from the Virgin Mary, gathering his allies for a decisive encounter at the Battle of Ethandun, ultimately securing a victory that restores peace and faith in Wessex.

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,888 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

G. K. Chesterton's The Ballad of the White Horse is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid imagery, evoking a sense of epic poetry. Readers appreciate its thematic depth and historical context. However, some critics find the language archaic and challenging. Overall, it's lauded for its inspirational narrative but may not appeal to those preferring modern styles.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Ballad of the White Horse?

Readers who enjoy historical epics and poetic storytelling will be captivated by G. K. Chesterton’s The Ballad of the White Horse. Fans of works like J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Idylls of the King will appreciate its rich language and exploration of heroism.

4.2

1,888 ratings

81%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

92

Format

Poem • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction
Setting

England • 9th Century

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Perseverance

Nation
Topic
World History
Publication Year

1911

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Buy This Book

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 9,200+ additional titles.