Memoirs of a Cavalier: Or, A Military Journal of the Wars in Germany, and the Wars in England, from the Year 1632 to the Year 1648: Analysis of Major Characters
"Memoirs of a Cavalier: Or, A Military Journal of the Wars in Germany, and the Wars in England, from the Year 1632 to the Year 1648" offers a vivid portrayal of military life during a tumultuous period in European history through the eyes of its protagonist, a Cavalier. This second son of a landed gentleman embarks on a journey across Europe, where he gains firsthand experience of significant military campaigns, including the siege of Magdeburg in Germany and the conflict in Sweden under King Gustavus Adolphus. The Cavalier's narrative reflects his disinterest in traditional academic pursuits, leading him to embrace a soldier's life instead.
Key characters include Captain Fielding, his loyal companion, and Sir John Hepburn, a fellow soldier who shares in the trials of war. The narrative also highlights the challenges faced by King Charles I of England, whom the Cavalier serves during the English Civil War against the Scots. As the story unfolds, readers witness the impact of these historical events on individuals and the larger political landscape. Ultimately, the Cavalier finds satisfaction in his service to king, country, and honor, providing a personal lens through which to understand the complexities of loyalty and conflict during this era.
Memoirs of a Cavalier: Or, A Military Journal of the Wars in Germany, and the Wars in England, from the Year 1632 to the Year 1648: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Daniel Defoe
First published: 1720
Genre: Novel
Locale: England and the Continent
Plot: Adventure
Time: 1630–1648
The Cavalier, the second son of a landed gentleman. As a student at Oxford, he realizes that he has no taste for the academic life, the law, the Church, or medicine, and he receives his father's permission to travel on the Continent. With his companion, Captain Fielding, he observes or takes part in campaigns in Germany, where he witnesses the terrible siege of Magdeburg; in Sweden, where he serves in the Swedish forces and is a special attendant to the king; and in Holland, where he observes the Dutch in their fight against the Spanish. Returning to England, he enters the service of Charles I against the Scots and serves the royalist cause in the English Civil War. With the royalist defeat, he retires, content to have served king, country, and honor to the best of his ability.
Captain Fielding, the Cavalier's friend and traveling companion.
Sir John Hepburn, the Cavalier's friend in the Swedish forces.
Gustavus Adolphus, the king of Sweden, to whom the Cavalier becomes a special attendant, serving sometimes as his emissary. The king loses his life in the battle of Lützen.
Charles I, the king of England, who is served by the Cavalier in his campaign against the Scots and in the English Civil War.