Lavengro : $b The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 1 (of 2)

"Lavengro: The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by George Borrow is a semi-autobiographical narrative written in the mid-19th century. This unique work blends biography with fiction, exploring themes of identity, culture, and the human experience as Borrow details his encounters and reflections on various characters, particularly his relationship with gypsies and religious figures. The book introduces readers to the author's early life and his fascination with the Romany people, setting the stage for an exploration of societal norms and personal beliefs. The opening of "Lavengro" presents a reflective account of the narrator's early years, beginning with his birth in East Anglia. It details his father, a Cornish gentleman and a soldier, and his mother, a French Protestant Huguenot. Borrow's memories reveal a contrast between him and his older brother, who is characterized by beauty and quick wit, while the narrator struggles with a sense of melancholy and a slow development. Themes of curiosity and storytelling emerge as the narrator’s life intertwines with nature and the supernatural, illustrated through vivid childhood memories, such as the encounter with a mesmerizing viper and the discovery of a captivating book that ignites his love for learning. This sets a foundation for a narrative that will oscillate between personal introspection and the captivating world of the Romany culture. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George Henry Borrow was an English writer of novels and of travel based on personal experiences in Europe. His travels gave him a close affinity with the Romani people of Europe, who figure strongly in his work. His best-known books are The Bible in Spain and the novels Lavengro and The Romany Rye, set in his time with the English Romanichal (Gypsies).