This dramatic novel was first presented to me by my father during my school going days. The novel was so rivetting that it was ’’un-put-downable’’. To this day I relish re-reading the novel.
The great storyteller Alexandre Dumas originally wrote the Three Musketeers in 1844. It is one of the most famous historical novels ever written. I also rate it as a great adventure story, with its heroes standing for the spirit of youth, daring, and comradeship.
The plot:: The country boy called D’Artagnan wants to join the ranks of the musketeers. When the young man arrives in Paris with the wish to enlist with the King’s loyal Musketeers, he finds himself challenged to three duels in the very first afternoon in the city by men who turn out to be Porthos, Aramis, and Athos - the Three Inseparable Musketeers. Instead of fighting against them, the twists of fate have D’Artagnan battling for them against the evil Cardinal Richelieu’s guards. After demonstrating his worth with a sword, D’Artagnan proves more of his mettle by journeying to England to foil a plot to embarrass France’s Queen Anne, the former Anne of Austria. D’Artagnan saves his queen but loses the woman he loves, so he seeks vengeance and, in turn, instills himself firmly in the ranks of the Musketeers.
The action takes place in the 1620s at the court of Louis XIII, where the Musketeers, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, with their forth companion, the headstrong d’Artagnan, are pitted against Richelieu, the king’s scheming minister, and the beautiful, unscrupulous spy, Milady.
The novel gives us a racy narrative of chivalry, loyalty and honour behind the flashing blades and bravura. Dumas explores the eternal conflict between good and evil in a dramatic fashion. The novel is still fresh in my mind. The numerous editions and full length feature films, still endorse the evergreen popularity.
A novel for all ages and by all means recommendable!