Summary:
"The Legend of Uilenspiegel and Lamme Goedzak" by Charles de Coster is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is set in 16th century Flanders and tells the tale of Uilenspiegel, a spirited trickster who embodies the spirit of the Flemish people, often using humor and cleverness to challenge authority and societal injustices, accompanied by his good-hearted friend Lamme Goedzak. The opening of the novel introduces the birth of Uilenspiegel in the town of Damme. His father, Klaas, jovially welcomes him while a midwife notes a dark mark on the baby's shoulder, portending a potentially devilish nature. Through a light-hearted exchange, we learn about Uilenspiegel's family situation, establishing the everyday struggles and love shared between his parents, especially their anger towards the injustices they face under the oppressive rule of the Habsburgs. As Uilenspiegel is baptized multiple times due to various mishaps, the narrative sets a whimsical tone while foreshadowing his future role as a joker and a symbol of resistance. This opening establishes the foundational themes of humor, familial bond, and the socio-political struggles that will shape Uilenspiegel's adventures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)