Eurico, the presbyter

A novel by the author responsible for introducing and developing historical narrative in Portugal, Eurico, the Presbyter is considered a classic of Portuguese literature.

Considered by many scholars to be one of the founders of Portuguese Romanticism, alongside Almeida Garrett, and the one who most fully represents it, Alexandre Herculano narrates the Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula in *Eurico, o Presbítero *. A region dominated by the Visigoths, a people originating from Eastern Europe, the Peninsula was quickly invaded by numerous and violent Islamic armies in the 8th century. Eurico, a young presbyter from Carteia, goes to fight to defend his homeland. With unparalleled determination and incredible weaponry, the young man soon becomes a legend. Clad in black armor, Eurico becomes the Black Knight, a terror to the Muslim troops.

In this classic tale of chivalry, Alexandre Herculano offers beautiful descriptions of the Spanish territory, as well as thoughtful and agile combat narrations. He also includes a tragic and long-unrequited love story, which becomes a central theme of the narrative.

As a romantic novel of chivalry, Eurico, the Priest presents the idealization of women, the figure of the hero, the nationalist spirit, Platonic idealism, the presence of nature, and several disappointments in love; these are characteristics that will certainly please contemporary readers.