35 pages • 1 hour read
G. K. ChestertonThe Ballad of the White Horse
Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1911A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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
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 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.