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The Return of Martin Guerre

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1983

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Book Brief

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Natalie Zemon Davis

The Return of Martin Guerre

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1983
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Period
Setting

France • 16th century

Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In The Return of Martin Guerre, Natalie Zemon Davis reconstructs the sixteenth-century legend of Martin Guerre, who returned to Toulouse just in time to denounce an imposter, Arnaud du Tilh, who had stolen his identity, wife, and inheritance. This fascinating tale, set in the Languedoc region of France, explores themes of identity, deceit, and community dynamics. The book contains descriptions of public punishment.

Mysterious

Informative

Challenging

Suspenseful

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

5,205 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Natalie Zemon Davis's The Return of Martin Guerre receives commendation for its engaging narrative that brings 16th-century France to life through meticulous research. Scholars praise her innovative blend of history and storytelling. However, some critics argue the speculative elements may blur historical accuracy. Overall, it's valued for both academic insight and readability.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Return of Martin Guerre?

Readers who enjoy microhistory and detailed storytelling will find The Return of Martin Guerre by Natalie Zemon Davis captivating. Comparable to The Cheese and the Worms by Carlo Ginzburg, it appeals to those intrigued by historical mysteries and socio-cultural dynamics of 16th-century France.

4.1

5,205 ratings

65%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Martin Guerre

A Basque man who grows up in Artigat and faces challenges with language and cultural integration, which affect his early life and marriage to Bertrande de Rols. He later becomes a soldier and returns home after many years to find an imposter in his place.

The wife of Martin Guerre, who marries him at a young age and experiences the pressures of societal expectations and her husband's disappearance. She navigates the complexities of her role within the family and her community.

A man from Lombez with a lively personality and a reputation for bending rules, who takes advantage of Martin Guerre's absence by assuming his identity. He uses his quick wit and memory to convince those around him of his assumed identity.

Martin Guerre's uncle and a significant figure in the household who is wary of the new Martin and has motivations shaped by both familial duty and personal interests. He plays a crucial role in addressing the controversy surrounding Martin's identity.

A respected judge and recorder of the trial of Arnaud du Tilh, whose documented observations contribute significantly to the historical understanding of the case. His career as a legal scholar and humanist adds depth to his perspective on the trial.

A legal scholar who also wrote about the trial of Arnaud du Tilh, providing an account that garnered widespread interest. His work helped popularize the story of Martin Guerre across France.

The author and historian who offers a detailed analysis of the events and characters involved in the Martin Guerre story. Her interpretations provide a fresh look at the historical context and the personal dynamics at play.

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Period
Setting

France • 16th century

Publication Year

1983

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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