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Lorna Doone facts for kids

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Lorna Doone
Cover of an illustrated 1893 edition of Lorna Doone
1893 edition
Author R D Blackmore
Country United Kingdom
Language English
Genre Fiction
Published 1869
Publisher Sampson Low of publisher Son, & Marston
Media type Print

Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor is a famous novel written by Richard Doddridge Blackmore. It was first published in 1869. The story takes place in the late 1600s, in the English counties of Devon and Somerset. It tells an exciting adventure and love story. The characters live around the beautiful East Lyn Valley in Exmoor. In 2003, a BBC survey called The Big Read chose Lorna Doone as one of the top 200 books ever.

Discovering Lorna Doone

Lorna Doone is a type of story known as a historical romance. This means it mixes real historical events with a thrilling love story. The book became very popular after it was published. Many people enjoyed reading about the adventures of John Ridd and Lorna Doone.

What is a Historical Romance?

A historical romance novel tells a fictional story set in the past. It often includes real historical events or people. The main focus is usually on a strong love story. These books help readers imagine what life was like long ago. They also provide exciting plots and memorable characters.

The Story's Setting

The novel is set in the wild and beautiful landscape of Exmoor. This area is in the southwest of England. The story takes place during the 1680s. This was a time of change and conflict in England. The natural beauty of Exmoor plays a big part in the story. It helps create the mood and challenges for the characters.

Life in the 17th Century

Life in the 1600s was very different from today. There were no cars, electricity, or modern medicine. People lived in small villages and worked on farms. Travel was difficult, and news spread slowly. The government was also very different, with kings and queens having a lot of power.

Main Characters and Their Adventures

The story follows John Ridd, a young farmer from Exmoor. He falls in love with Lorna Doone. Lorna belongs to a dangerous family of outlaws called the Doones. They are known for their violent actions. John must overcome many challenges to be with Lorna.

John Ridd's Journey

John Ridd is a strong and honest young man. He lives a simple life on his family's farm. His life changes when he meets Lorna. He faces many dangers to protect her. John's bravery and determination are key to the story.

The Mysterious Doone Family

The Doones are a group of former nobles. They became outlaws and live in a hidden valley. They often steal from local farmers. Lorna is part of this family, but she does not agree with their actions. Her connection to them creates many problems for her and John.

Conflicts and Challenges

The main conflict in the story is between John and the Doones. John must fight against their power and cruelty. He also faces challenges from other characters. These include rival suitors for Lorna's hand. The story is full of exciting fights and dramatic moments.

Legacy and Adaptations

Lorna Doone has remained a popular novel for over 150 years. It has been adapted into many different forms. These include films, television shows, and even comic books. Each adaptation brings the classic story to new audiences.

Lorna Doone in Movies and TV

Several movies and TV series have been made based on the book. These adaptations try to capture the beauty of Exmoor. They also show the exciting adventures and romance of John and Lorna. Watching them can be a fun way to experience the story.

Why the Story Endures

The novel continues to be loved because of its strong characters. It also has an exciting plot and beautiful descriptions of nature. The themes of love, courage, and justice are timeless. These elements make Lorna Doone a classic that many generations enjoy.

Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor at Project Gutenberg Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor at Project Gutenberg

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Lorna Doone (novela) para niños

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