The Roots of the Mountains Wherein Is Told Somewhat of the Lives of the Men of Burgdale, Their Friends, Their Neighbours, Their Foemen, and Their Fellows in Arms

"The Roots of the Mountains" by William Morris is a fantasy novel written in the late 19th century. The book unfolds in a mythical, idyllic valley known as Burgdale, depicting the lives of its inhabitants—Dalesmen, Woodlanders, and their friends and foes—against a backdrop of nature, relationships, and conflicts. At its center are significant figures like Face-of-God, a young hunter and the son of the Alderman, and his betrothed, the Bride, who embody the spirit of their community. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the beautiful landscape of Burgdale, which is framed by towering mountains and lush valleys. The narrative paints detailed imagery of the town of Burgstead and its folk, highlighting their simple yet rich lives intertwined with nature. Face-of-God is introduced as he reflects on the beauty of his surroundings while embarking on a quest for understanding and adventure. This opening establishes not only the setting and primary characters but also hints at the themes of belonging, camaraderie, and the internal struggles the protagonist may face between the allure of the wild and the comfort of community life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Morris was an English textile designer, poet, artist, writer, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement. He was a major contributor to the revival of traditional British textile arts and methods of production. His literary contributions helped to establish the modern fantasy genre, while he helped win acceptance of socialism in fin de siècle Great Britain.