For Faith and Freedom

Name: For Faith and Freedom
Author: Walter Besant

By Walter Besant

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British Literature

About This Book

The novel follows a Somerset community and several intertwined lives as political rebellion and religious dissent upend village prosperity and family fortunes. A scholarly but impecunious father, his industrious wife, local youths, and a stern justice confront conscription, battle, flight, imprisonment, and exile; some characters suffer enslavement and dangerous sea voyages before return. Episodes move between domestic toil in the cloth towns, courtroom and assize scenes, military camps, and Caribbean islands, exploring themes of faith, conscience, loyalty, social obligation, and the costs of liberty. Narrative develops through multiple personal testimonies and episodic set pieces that trace long-term consequences for individuals and communities.

About the Author

Walter Besant

Walter Besant was a British novelist and historian, known for his vivid portrayals of London and its social conditions. His works often explore themes of social reform and the lives of the working class. Among his notable titles is "All Sorts and Conditions of Men: An Impossible Story," which critiques the disparities of Victorian society. Besant's writing is characterized by a blend of fiction and social commentary, making significant contributions to the literary heritage of the late 19th century. He was also involved in various philanthropic efforts and was a prominent figure in the promotion of literature and the arts.