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
1889
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
1889
The Roots of the Mountains is a fantasy romance novel by William Morris, first published in 1889. Set in the idyllic valley of Burgdale, it explores the lives of its inhabitants, including the young hunter Face-of-God and his betrothed, the Bride, as they navigate relationships and conflicts against a backdrop of nature. This work is notable for its early integration of an imaginary world with supernatural elements, influencing later fantasy literature, including J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. Morris's narrative combines themes of belonging, camaraderie, and the struggle between adventure and community life.
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“Thus then lived this folk in much plenty and ease of life, though not delicately nor desiring things out of measure. They wrought with their hands and wearied themselves; and they rested from their toil and feasted and were merry: to-morrow was not a burden to them, nor yesterday a thing which they would fain forget: life shamed them not, nor did death make them afraid.””
— William Morris
“Once upon a time amidst the mountains and hills and falling streams of a fair land there was a town or thorp in a certain valley.””
— William Morris
