Anthony Hope

The Prisoner of Zenda Illustrated Anthony Hope

Anthony Hope's swashbuckling romance transports his English knight hero, Rudolf Rassendyll, from a comfortable life in London to fast-paced adventures in Ruritania, a mythical land steeped in political intrigue. Rassendyll bears a striking resemblance to Rudolf Elphberg, who is about to be crowned King of Ruritania. When the rival to the throne, Black Michael of Strelsau, attempts to seize power by imprisoning Elphberg in Zenda Castle, Rassendyll is forced to pose as the King to defend legitimate sovereignty and ensure political stability. Rassendyll endures a test of strength in his encounters with the famous Rupert of Hentzau, and a test of a different kind as he grows to love Princess Flavia.