The Scarlet Pimpernel is set during the early stages of the French Revolution. Sir Percy Blakeney leads a secret society known as the "League of the Scarlet Pimpernel," dedicated to rescuing French aristocrats from the Reign of Terror's guillotine. As the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel, he hides behind his persona as a dull-witted nobleman to carry out daring rescues. When Marguerite is blackmailed by the cunning French envoy Chauvelin, she unwittingly aids in exposing the Pimpernel's identity, only to later discover, to her shock, that her husband is the man behind the mask. Racing against time and danger, Marguerite embarks on a journey to France to warn Percy and save him from his enemies, reigniting the love and trust between them.
The Scarlet Pimpernel holds significant historical importance as one of the earliest works to introduce the concept of a masked hero with a secret identity, laying the foundation for the modern superhero genre. Its immense popularity not only revived the theme of classic villainy in literature but also inspired future characters such as Zorro, Batman, and Superman. The Scarlet Pimpernel's legacy endures, with its premise of a hero hiding behind a meek persona influencing countless stories in serial fiction and superhero narratives.
This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.