Ernest Bracebridge

School Days

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Pages: 233

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About this book

At Grafton Hall, a half-holiday sends the boys racing towards gymnastic poles, ropes and swings. William Henry Giles Kingston's school novel begins with a pupil's fond account of the grounds and the strict, kindly headmaster who encourages games while expecting care for the school. Among the pupils, Richard Blackall wins followers through athletic skill, yet uses his strength to make smaller boys obey him.

Sport gives these rivalries a public stage. During a hockey match, Blackall directs a blow at Ernest Bracebridge, and Ellis intervenes to protect his friend. Fast movement across the playing field sits alongside questions about courage, loyalty and the use of power. Readers of older boarding school fiction will find detailed scenes of games and exercise, with friendship tested by the pressure to follow a stronger boy.