Le gibet

About this book

"Le gibet" by H. Emile Chevalier is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative appears to unfold in a context marked by the intense social and political upheaval surrounding the abolition of slavery in America. The central characters include Edwin Coppie, a committed abolitionist, and Rebecca Sherrington, his fiancée, who is torn between her familial loyalty and her feelings for Edwin. The opening of "Le gibet" introduces us to a tense interaction between Edwin and Rebecca, set against the backdrop of the abolitionist movement. Edwin has just returned from a mission to help runaway slaves escape to Canada, which puts him at odds with Rebecca, whose family holds strong pro-slavery beliefs. As Edwin grapples with the implications of his actions and the stark contrast between his ideals and the prejudices of Rebecca’s family, the narrative hints at the personal and societal conflicts that will unfold throughout the book. Their discourse reveals the emotional turmoil sparked by the political climate, setting the stage for deeper themes of love, loyalty, and the fight against oppression.