Pastorals of Dorset

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Francis, M. E., 1859-1930

Contributor:

Cooper, Claud C. Du Pré

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Pastorals of Dorset" by M. E. Francis is a collection of pastoral tales written in the early 20th century. The book captures the lives of rural characters in Dorset, showcasing themes of agrarian life, community interactions, and the passage of time through poignant, character-driven narratives. Among its central figures are Farmer Joyce and the aging shepherd Abel Robbins, who deal with the challenges of aging, work, and societal changes. The opening of the book introduces readers to Farmer Joyce and Shepherd Robbins, setting a vivid pastoral scene as they discuss the shepherd's failing health and the difficulties of managing the farm. The exchange highlights Robbins' reluctance to accept reduced wages, revealing both the economic pressures faced by the elderly and the bonds formed through years of service and loyalty. As Robbins grapples with the impending changes in his life, the narrative effortlessly immerses the reader in the struggles and stoicism of rural life, setting the tone for the stories to follow. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

Shepherd Robbins

Private Griggs

Up at the 'lotments

The only soldier

A rustic Argus

The rosy plate

Becky and Bithey

The lover's wraith

Johnny at Shroton Fair

The rout of the conqueror

How Granfer volunteered.

Credits:

Les Bowler

Notes:

Reading ease score: 79.4 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.

Release date is 2021-04-13