Significant Themes

With a Sword in my Hand is an extremely meaningful novel encompassing several significant themes. It is set in medieval Flanders where the circumstances, activities and beliefs are very different to present times. The author narrates the novel from Marguerite’s perspective. Throughout the novel, gender is an ongoing theme. Marguerite goes through times where she is accused of being un-lady-like; discovers more about her interest in love and the value of believing in god.

Gender is an important aspect of the novel With a Sword in my hand as the protagonist Marguerite demonstrates. At the beginning of the novel when Marguerite’s mother was giving birth, The Count was desiring for their child to be a boy. It is inferred that he had grand plans
Marguerite was forced into love from an extremely young age. Her first romantic relationship was with a boy named Willem. Marguerite and Willem spend some time alone. The environment surrounding was normal and calm until Marguerite asks him for a kiss. The author reveals that Willem is astounded by the words coming out of her mouth. “I’ve never kissed anybody, and I think it’s time I did, let’s say, as a scientific experiment.” Marguerite’s second relationship was a forced marriage by her father. This was not uncommon in medieval times. The count invited knights, noblemen, and guild masters to dinner to announce that Marguerite was ready for marriage. “She will marry Edmund of Langley, Duke of Cambridge, Prince of England and youngest son of King Edward the third “. It is presumed that Marguerite felt very uncomfortable about her father’s big announcement. “I’m nowhere as beautiful as my mother”. As marguerite got to know Edmund a bit more, she grew to feel weary about him. This lead her into her final relationship with a man named Philip. Philip was invited to the Castle of Male as Marguerite’s final option of marriage. At first the two had a peculiar relationship, however, they grew to love each other and get married. “My lady, your husband to be will fight with your veil for your greater honour and glory… But I will fight in my shirtsleeves for your love”. Marguerite found the love
Belief plays a predominant role in Marguerite’s life, guiding her through the toughest of times.

Medieval individuals valued belief as it formed a significant part of their life

The novel, With a Sword in my Hand illustrates the importance of gender, love and beliefs. It is inferred each theme may have affected the daily life in medieval times. The novel highlighted three key themes namely, gender, love and belief. Women where not as well respected as men in medieval times. Marguerite was often reminded to remain lady-like. Medieval people believed women had to act noble and classy. Marguerite realised her curiosity for love as she was involved in several relationships. The people of medieval Flanders were faithful and superstitious. They believe to forever be close to