Publisher's Synopsis
William Tell Or Switzerland Delivered is a historical novel written by Jean-Pierre Claris de Florian and published in 1836. The novel is set in Switzerland during the 14th century and tells the story of William Tell, a legendary Swiss hero who rebelled against the oppressive rule of the Habsburgs.The novel begins with the introduction of Gessler, the cruel governor appointed by the Habsburgs to rule over Switzerland. Gessler imposes a series of harsh laws on the Swiss people, including the requirement that they pay homage to his hat on a pole. William Tell, a skilled archer, refuses to bow down to the hat and is arrested by Gessler. In a famous scene, Gessler forces Tell to shoot an apple off his son's head with a bow and arrow. Tell successfully hits the apple, but Gessler discovers that Tell had prepared a second arrow to kill him if he had missed. Gessler orders Tell to be imprisoned, but he eventually escapes and leads a rebellion against the Habsburgs.The novel is considered a classic of Swiss literature and has been adapted into various forms, including operas and films. It is a tale of heroism, bravery, and the fight for freedom against oppression.To Which Is Added, A Short Account Of The Life Of Tell.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
