Instead, he waits until he, Guern, and Esca are out on the trail to the next village, where they have more privacy and it is more appropriate to discuss painful old secrets. It would be rude and awkward to do it in front of his wife and children. However, he decides not to confront Guern about it while in the middle of the new life Guern has made for himself. While watching Guern shave in the comfort of the man’s hospitality and family, Marcus’ suspicion is confirmed when he spots a very specific physical detail that outs the Hunter as a Roman. Look at how he chooses to confront Guern the Hunter about his past identity. One thing I had forgotten is how clear-minded, honest, and thoughtful is Marcus Flavius Aquila, qualities that are exhibited especially in his tact. Walter Hodges photo of illustration in book taken by me.

Recommended For: Surely everyone could get something from Sutcliff’s writing, but those who might especially appreciate The Eagle of the Ninth are: history buffs, particularly of Roman and “Dark Age” history, those who love adventure stories, and writers (because anyone who loves words and the good use of words should appreciate Sutcliff’s work) Her prose style is so consistently graceful, warm, and personal, that rereading her books feels like reminiscing about shared halcyon days with a fond old friend, and reading a new book by her feels like catching up on the life of a good friend whom you haven’t seen in a long time. This was my third read, and I can’t wait until I have a good excuse to return to it again.Īuthor Re-readability: Sutcliff is one of the very few authors whose books I will buy just on her name alone, as long as I have enough money available and it’s a book I don’t own. Story Re-readability: There are reasons this is considered a legitimate classic of both young adult literature and historical fiction in general reasons I hope to expound below. Reason for Finishing: It’s simply a really good story, exceptionally well told. Reason for Rereading: The release of the film adaptation The Eagle prompted me to return to the book, some of which I’d forgot. The Eagle means Rome, honor, and good faith kept – but in the hands of Rome’s enemies, it could become a powerful weapon. Years later, the commander’s son, Marcus Aquila, decides to venture north to find the lost Eagle standard of his father, taking with him only Esca, the former British slave who has become his friend.

117, the Ninth Legion marched north of Agricola’s Wall to deal with an uprising of Scottish tribesmen and was never seen again. Series: No, though it forms a thematic trilogy with The Silver Branch and The Lantern Bearers.

The eagle and the ninth