# When Charles the First Was King — Themes

> Major themes in When Charles the First Was King by J. S. Fletcher.

## Loyalty to the Crown

The narrative centers on unwavering loyalty to King Charles I, with characters like Will Dale and Philip Lisle viewing the monarchy as divinely ordained and fighting for it despite personal cost, while contrasting this with the Parliamentarian cause.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of Philip Lisle’s Call to Arms](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xiii-of-philip-lisle-s-call-to-arms): Philip Lisle and Jack Drumbleforth argue for unwavering allegiance to King Charles, while Parson Drumbleforth and Master Oldthwaite question the King's actions.
- [Of Our Flight from That Neighbourhood](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xvi-of-our-flight-from-that-neighbourhood): Ben Tuckett declares himself a Royalist despite the risks, and the group's escape is motivated by their allegiance to the King.
- [Of Jack Drumbleforth's Return Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxii-of-jack-drumbleforth-s-return-home): Jack and Philip express unwavering loyalty to King Charles I, viewing rebellion as a sin against God and the rightful monarch.
- [Of the Second Siege of Pontefract Castle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxxi-of-the-second-siege-of-pontefract-castle): The garrison's defense of Pontefract Castle for King Charles I, and Will's mother's prayers for the King's cause, underscore unwavering royalist loyalty.
- [Of Our Adventure in Derbyshire](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxxiv-of-our-adventure-in-derbyshire): Philip Lisle's caution about being among Roundheads and his search for a Royalist-friendly inn shows continued loyalty to the King.
- [Of the Surrender of Pontefract Castle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxxviii-of-the-surrender-of-pontefract-castle): The garrison holds the castle for the King for five months, enduring starvation and repeated disappointments before surrendering, demonstrating steadfast royalist loyalty.

## Rural Life and Nature

The book celebrates the Yorkshire landscape and pastoral life, contrasting the peaceful, cyclical rhythms of farming and harvest with the chaos of war, and using nature as a source of identity and solace.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of the Land I Live In](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/i-of-the-land-i-live-in): William Dale lovingly describes the landscapes, villages, and natural beauty of Yorkshire, emphasizing his deep connection to the land.
- [Of My Family, Friends, Neighbours, and Enemies](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/ii-of-my-family-friends-neighbours-and-enemies): The chapter extensively describes the daily routines, farming practices, and the natural environment of Dale's Field.
- [Of My First Meeting with Rose Lisle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/iii-of-my-first-meeting-with-rose-lisle): The chapter vividly describes the farmstead, the woods along the River Went, the stormcock's nest, and the seasonal signs of spring such as primroses and newborn lambs.
- [Of Philip Lisle and His Good Horse Caesar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/iv-of-philip-lisle-and-his-good-horse-caesar): The chapter is rich with descriptions of the woods, stream, mill, and farm life, emphasizing the pastoral setting.
- [Of My First Going to School](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/v-of-my-first-going-to-school): The chapter opens with Parson Drumbleforth's visit to the Dale home, set in a rural landscape, and references to farming and outdoor life.
- [Of the Dispute in the Marketplace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/vi-of-the-dispute-in-the-marketplace): The chapter richly describes the harvest-supper, farm routines, and the seasonal rhythm of life in the countryside.

## Love and Courtship

Romantic relationships, particularly between Will and Rose and Ben and Lucy, are central, developing against the backdrop of war and serving as a counterpoint to conflict, with courtship rituals and family approval playing key roles.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of Philip Lisle and His Good Horse Caesar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/iv-of-philip-lisle-and-his-good-horse-caesar): Will and Rose's innocent friendship and the affectionate farewell hint at early romantic bonds.
- [Of My Second Meeting with Rose Lisle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xi-of-my-second-meeting-with-rose-lisle): Will's admiration for Rose and Ben's confession of love for Lucy highlight romantic themes.
- [XII: Of the First Tidings of War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xii-of-the-first-tidings-of-war): Will's growing attraction to Rose is evident, as is Ben and Lucy's mutual affection; Jack teases Will about falling in love.
- [Of the Events Which Followed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xvii-of-the-events-which-followed): Will's deepening love for Rose Lisle is central; Jacob Trusty encourages him to marry, comparing courtship to natural pairings in the animal world.
- [Of the Remarkable Conduct of Dennis Watson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xix-of-the-remarkable-conduct-of-dennis-watson): Rose's defense of Lucy and her gentle challenge to Will's harshness hint at her growing influence over him, while Dennis Watson's gallantry toward the girls introduces a romantic tension.
- [Of Certain Joyful Events](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxi-of-certain-joyful-events): Will and Rose confess their love and share their first kiss, solidifying their betrothal.

## Civil War and Duty

The English Civil War is a driving force, forcing characters to choose sides and confront the tragedy of Englishman fighting Englishman, while exploring themes of duty to king, country, and family.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of the Land I Live In](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/i-of-the-land-i-live-in): The chapter foreshadows the Civil War, with William recalling the division of the country and his presence at the king's execution.
- [Of My Second Meeting with Rose Lisle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xi-of-my-second-meeting-with-rose-lisle): Philip Lisle's warnings and the historical context underscore the impending conflict and personal obligations.
- [XII: Of the First Tidings of War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xii-of-the-first-tidings-of-war): Jack Drumbleforth brings the first tidings of war, debating which side to fight for and noting that many will fight without understanding the cause.
- [Of Philip Lisle’s Call to Arms](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xiii-of-philip-lisle-s-call-to-arms): The chapter centers on the outbreak of civil war and the conflicting duties men feel toward the King, their families, and their farms.
- [Of the Disturbance in Pontefract Marketplace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xiv-of-the-disturbance-in-pontefract-marketplace): The chapter centers on recruiting for the Royalist cause, the moral conflict between domestic responsibilities and military service, and the outbreak of violence in the marketplace.
- [XV: Of Our Escape from the Magistrate’s Custody](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xv-of-our-escape-from-the-magistrate-s-custody): The characters' imprisonment and defiance highlight their commitment to the Royalist cause amid the conflict.

## Social Class and Hierarchy

The story reflects rigid social structures of 17th-century England, with clear distinctions between gentry, farmers, and servants like Jacob Trusty, yet also shows bonds of loyalty and respect across classes.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of My Coming of Age](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/x-of-my-coming-of-age): Two separate entertainments are held for labourers and gentry, and Will's role as master of the estate is emphasized in Jacob's speech.
- [Of Philip Lisle’s Call to Arms](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xiii-of-philip-lisle-s-call-to-arms): Debates over the rights of the people versus the divine right of kings reflect tensions between social classes and political authority.
- [Of the Coming Near of War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxiii-of-the-coming-near-of-war): Ben Tuckett, a tradesman, navigates between Royalist and Parliamentarian factions, highlighting class dynamics in wartime.
- [Of the First Siege of Pontefract Castle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxx-of-the-first-siege-of-pontefract-castle): Ben Tuckett's concerns as a tradesman contrast with the military commanders, illustrating the effects of war on different social classes.

## Honor and Enmity

Personal honor drives conflicts like the feud with Dennis Watson, and characters grapple with revenge, forgiveness, and the moral complexities of violence, both in duels and on the battlefield.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of My Family, Friends, Neighbours, and Enemies](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/ii-of-my-family-friends-neighbours-and-enemies): The long-standing feud with the Watsons over land is introduced as a source of conflict and future misery.
- [Of Philip Lisle and His Good Horse Caesar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/iv-of-philip-lisle-and-his-good-horse-caesar): Jacob Trusty's discourse on highwaymen contrasts the courtly behavior of Black Phil with the dishonesty of lawyers, reflecting themes of honor and lawlessness.
- [Of My First Going to School](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/v-of-my-first-going-to-school): Will is taught to avoid fighting but must defend his honor against Watson's bullying, leading to a confrontation with his friends' support.
- [Of the Dispute in the Marketplace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/vi-of-the-dispute-in-the-marketplace): The ancient feud between the Dales and Watsons over a strip of land is reignited, with both sides asserting their rights and threatening violence.
- [Of Our Coming from York](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/vii-of-our-coming-from-york): The long-standing feud between the Dales and Watsons over the land, and Will's instinctive dislike of Dennis, highlight the theme of inherited enmity.
- [Of the Sorrow That Came After](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/viii-of-the-sorrow-that-came-after): Will's vow to avenge his father and the community's ostracism of Rupert Watson highlight the themes of personal honor and deadly enmity.

## Family and Heritage

The Dale family's connection to their land and ancestors is a recurring theme, with Will's coming of age and inheritance symbolizing continuity, while the war threatens to disrupt family bonds and traditions.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of the Land I Live In](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/i-of-the-land-i-live-in): William speaks of his home, his daughter Dorothy, and his desire to leave a record for his children and grandchildren.
- [Of My Family, Friends, Neighbours, and Enemies](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/ii-of-my-family-friends-neighbours-and-enemies): The narrator emphasizes the ancient lineage of the Dales, family pride, and the close-knit household.
- [Of My First Meeting with Rose Lisle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/iii-of-my-first-meeting-with-rose-lisle): Will's conversation with Jacob Trusty emphasizes the Dale family lineage and the importance of tradition, as Jacob recalls Will's grandfather and the family's long tenure at Dale's Field.
- [Of My First Going to School](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/v-of-my-first-going-to-school): The Dale-Watson feud shapes Will's school experience, as Dennis Watson's hostility stems from generations of enmity between their families.
- [Of the Dispute in the Marketplace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/vi-of-the-dispute-in-the-marketplace): Will's father defends the family's ancestral claim to the land, emphasizing the importance of heritage and legacy.
- [Of Our Coming from York](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/vii-of-our-coming-from-york): Will's father refuses to yield the land his ancestors left him, emphasizing the importance of family legacy and the determination to defend it.

## Fate and Providence

Characters frequently interpret events through a lens of divine will or fate, whether in battle, personal loss, or the King's execution, reflecting the religious and fatalistic worldview of the era.

### Where it surfaces

- [Of the Sorrow That Came After](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/viii-of-the-sorrow-that-came-after): Jacob Trusty's belief that crime will eventually come home to the doer reflects a providential view of justice.
- [Of Jack Drumbleforth's Return Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxii-of-jack-drumbleforth-s-return-home): Philip invokes Scripture to argue that all power is from God, while Jack notes Cromwell's belief in divine warrant for his actions.
- [Of the Coming Near of War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxiii-of-the-coming-near-of-war): The uncertainty of war and the characters' helplessness in the face of larger events reflect a sense of fate.
- [Of the Great Fight at Marston Moor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxv-of-the-great-fight-at-marston-moor): The outcome of the battle is uncertain, and characters reflect on the die being cast.
- [Of the Progress of the Fight](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxvi-of-the-progress-of-the-fight): The outcome of the battle is portrayed as inevitable, with the Ironsides' disciplined charge and the Royalist defeat suggesting a providential turn against the King's cause.
- [Of My Meeting with General Cromwell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_charles_the_first_was_king_se/chapters/xxvii-of-my-meeting-with-general-cromwell): Cromwell speaks of the ordained mission and the sorrow of war, reflecting a belief in divine will guiding events.

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