The League of Literary Gentlemen: He-Wolves of Siena

Warning: This post contains some spoilers for The River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren. 

My favorite types of stories are filled with large casts of characters. These stories develop each character well and make you feel as if you know each one individually and personally. It's always wonderful to pick up a book series and find multiple characters to fall in love with. Sarah Munson and I agree that one of the best book series that does this is The River of Time books by Lisa T. Bergren.

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Filled with high-stakes danger, swoon-worthy scenes, and a plethora of kick-butt characters, The River of Time books have literally swept us away to 14th century Italy. A lot of this has to do with the strong, well-developed male characters: the He-Wolves of Siena. Whether it's fighting a bloody battle for their honor and people, or gently teaching the Betarrini sisters how to live in 14th century Italy, the knights show their worth time and time again. Marcello, Luca, Rodolfo, Fortino, and the many other knights are truly gallant heroes deserving of the title "literary gentlemen."

1. They are loyal

Throughout the five-book series, the He-Wolves prove their loyalty. They will go to great lengths for their people. They're ready for battle at a moment's notice in order to defend their lands (Waterfall 110-111). They come to the aid of people in need, vowing to help them in any way (Waterfall 135). And they are loyal to the ones that hold their hearts, such as Gabi and Lia Betarrini.

As knights growing up in the 14th century, the boys take loyalty very seriously. They would never betray a friend or go back on a promise. They are steadfast until the very end. This is why Lord Rodolfo Greco severs his ties with his city in order to stay loyal to his brotherhood--his people. While this decision was not made lightly, he does so out of a bond that goes beyond politics or geography.

"'Say no more. We are brothers, sworn to silence. Our bond goes deep.'
'A bond beyond loyalty to the grandi of Firenze,' I said.
'Or the Nine,' he said unapologetically. 'It was forged long ago.'" -Marcello and Gabi, Cascade 305. 

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The other knights also prove their loyalty by holding fast during battles and other dangerous times. Fortino, despite being sick, puts others first in order to defeat the enemy once and for all: "He said to carry on the attack. To leave him with a sword, in case they breach this corridor" (Waterfall 259).

When Marcello realizes he is falling for Gabi, he's still locked in a relationship with Lady Romana Rossi--something that has been established since they were children. He proves his loyalty to Romana, even though he doesn't love her, by pulling himself away from Gabi when he's become too drawn to her (Waterfall 161). Instead, he waits to confess his feelings to Gabi until he is sure he can break his relationship with Romana. Sure, it doesn't go perfectly, but Marcello doesn't go back on his loyalty despite his feelings. And he never betrays Gabi either, even when she disappears for months. He holds onto hope that she will return, that she will remain loyal to him as he has remained loyal to her.

"Then, if you love me, Gabriella," he said, his eyes mad with urgency, "as I love you, return to me. [...] Return to me, and you shall find me waiting." -Marcello, Waterfall 366.

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2. They are protective

Part of He-Wolves' loyalty influences how they behave toward others. They are protective of the people they care about, including both Gabi and Lia. They will do whatever it takes to make sure the ladies are safe from enemies, disease, or other perils 14th century Italy throws at them.

"I am always amenable to rescuing damsels in distress, especially if it means they will be forever grateful to me." -Luca, Waterfall 239.

When Gabi tries to sneak out to find her sister, Marcello and Luca demand they go with her; they can't fathom her trekking through the woods at night alone, unescorted (Waterfall 91-92, 219). In all they do, the knights make sure Gabi and Lia are protected. They keep an eye on them both inside the castle and outside its gates.

"Again, I understand your warning. It is my life, m'lord. Allow me to live it as I see fit.'
'But that is just it! I endeavor to aid you in living it.'" -Gabi and Marcello, Waterfall 61.

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They also protect the girls' reputations. A lot of things Gabi and Lia do--ride horses without sidesaddles, fight in battles, wear jeans, etc.--are uncommon for proper ladies to do in 14th century Italy. Marcello and Luca know this, and they do what they can to uphold the Betarrini girls' reputations. They make sure they have proper clothing, that they don't return to the castle looking like wild woman of the woods (Waterfall 35, 79). They find careful ways to keep the girls in high respects.

They also protect their people and their alliances with the same steadfast loyalty and ferocious bravery. When Siena is under attack by enemies, they don't hesitate to ride out to battle or come to the aid of their allies. They will do what they must to protect their people and the surrounding lands.

"I belong where I can defend all that I love." -Marcello, Waterfall 262.

3. They are supportive

While at times their strong sense of protectiveness, as Gabi puts it, come across chauvinistic, they are doing it out of their sense of loyalty and duty (Waterfall 100). The Middle Ages were a different time, different place: the rules of society were different. Thus, it was uncommon for girls to fight or travel without escorts. It was normal for the men to be overly protective. However, the He-Wolves don't let this stop them from supporting the girls. They actually do a good job allowing the girls to be themselves.

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Despite it being uncommon, they allow the girls to fight, which is good because Gabi and Lia help get the boys out of more than one scrape (Waterfall 141-142). They also support the girls in anything they choose to be: healers, artists, leaders, she-wolves. At this time, most women were expected to get married and have kids, their marriages usually creating some kind of political alliance. Not every women could choose what they wanted to do with their lives. But these knights are quick to adapt and allow their women the freedom to choose.

“I like having her behind us,” Luca quipped. “No one expects one so beautiful to be a wolf on the attack.” -Waterfall 272.

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They also respect the girls' choices and actions. Marcello allows Gabi to return to the tombs in order to find her sister (Waterfall 91). He lets her cut off Paratore's ear to make a statement (Cascade 96-97). He chooses to give her the opportunity to lead their people because he supports her and her abilities. He may share his opinion, but ultimately, he allows Gabi to make her own choices (Cascade 95). Luca does the same for Lia.

The knights allow the girls to be themselves--unruly hair, fierce fighting skills and all. They don't let societal rules keep them from supporting those they love.

"You are courageous, Gabriella. And clever. And strong. Remember that, in the thick of battle. You can utilize all three." -Marcello, Waterfall 251.

4. They are brave

To live in 14th century Italy, one had to be brave. War was constantly on the horizon, disease weakened and took many lives, and disaster could wrench away any normalcy at a moment's notice; people were forced to be courageous. And the He-Wolves prove this sense of courage at every turn.

“This was war. It was us versus them. To live or die.” -Waterfall 273. 

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As the knights protect those they are loyal to, they find themselves in the middle of several battles where swords can cause a lot of damage, even death. Weapons back then were ugly, and death in battle was the norm. But this didn't stop them from fighting. They charge into a battle without hesitation, knowing they must in order to keep the ones they love safe. Even in the most dire situations, they keep up their courage to continue fighting. They are confident they can see through the end. They don't need anybody to validate them, and they don't feel overshadowed by others' abilities or greatness. Instead, their bravery inspires confidence in others, especially Gabi and Lia. 

"You shall need to learn how to not fret so over me, m'lady. As you know, a lord's work often entails such danger. Especially in these harrowing times." -Marcello, Waterfall 41.

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Even Fortino, who is weakened by disease, proves his bravery. Every single day he lives to fight against the allergies that make it hard for him to breathe and eat (Waterfall 118-121). He knows he could be dead by morning, which is a very brave thing to live with. But he keeps fighting, holding on to hope that he will see another sunrise. 

The knights' bravery is astounding. They don't give up, and they don't give in, no matter what they face. Legions of enemies attack and they find the will to swing the swords (Torrent). The plague comes to their doorstep, and they find ways to battle it (Deluge). They experience loss and sickness and tragedy, but they fight hard and they fight bravely to keep going, to live life to the fullest. 

"Bliss, I thought, so hard-won. A fable, most times, but scratching the surface in moments like this. Sheer, startling joy. Even though we'd been through agonizing grief. Faced death, over and over again Here, here was life, before us." -Deluge 423. 

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5. They are compassionate. 

The He-Wolves show a lot of manly muscle and ferocity through their actions, but they also have a gentle side. They care for others through simple ways, not just swinging a sword or throwing knives. They help people in need--such as farmers that need a place to stay or people who are hungry (Cascade 67).

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When the Black Plague hits Europe, they watch as people they know and love are infected and die. They try to quarantine the castle, hoping to keep the infection out for as long as possible, but they can't watch others suffer outside the gates. Against their better judgment, they go to aid the others.

"I go now and attempt to lend aid, and hopefully live through it, or I remain here, a coward waiting for them to come and retrieve me so they can come cut off my traitorous head. What say you, Gabriella? Which is better?" -Marcello, Deluge 318. 

In other instances, the knights show the same kind of compassion and gentleness in their actions. They care for others, not wanting anybody to be unprotected. Marcello in particular shows Gabi comfort when she is separated from Lia.

"'I do understand,' he said, his voice gentling. 'If it were Fortino who was lost, I'd do anything I could. I know it's difficult, but we will not accomplish anything more here, this night. And Evangelia--she'd want you to be safe, would she not? You've seen for yourself what transpires on these lands. Let us return to the castello and pursue a new search for your sister come morn.'" -Marcello, Waterfall 99.

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They show sympathy towards their enemies (Tributary), and they immediately show compassion to people in need, even if they are strangers or different than them (Waterfall 34). This gentleness helps offset the more brutal action of the time, giving them the makings of a heart. 

"'Gold. The color of straws, long and straight. She has blue eyes and is quite pretty.'
Luca and Pietro rose. 'Permission to go in immediate search of this young maiden, sir,' said the first.
The other knights erupted in laughter." -Waterfall 56. 

Bonus: They are swoon-worthy

The knights are literary gentlemen also because they are swoon-worthy. Their loyalty and protective-nature along with their dashing good looks makes them prime candidates to fall in love with. I mean, who can say no to the dreamy guy rescuing you on multiple occasions, the sad bad boy punishing himself, the sickly sweetheart that gives flirty smiles while he coughs up a lung, or the adorable knight making jokes while in the middle of a very serious battle?

“Saints in heaven, I believe I’m in love.” -Luca, Waterfall 284. 

Everything that makes up the He-Wolves of Siena stems back to their loyalty. Their support, protectiveness, compassion, and bravery are a result of their steadfast loyalty. Without this sense of loyalty, the knights have no reason to fight, no reason to care for others. This kind of loyalty seems impossible in today's world; it's just not "how the world" is anymore, right? I believe that anybody can show this kind of loyalty to the ones they love; they just need to be brave enough, compassionate enough, supportive enough, and protective enough to show it. 

All references are from The River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren: Waterfall (2011), Cascade (2011), Torrent (2011), Bourne and Tributary (2012), and Deluge (2014).

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League of Literary Gentlemen: Diamond Sunbursts and Marble Halls

Over the past few weeks, I've expressed my deep love for many fictional characters worthy of the title "gentleman." However, there is one literary gentleman that always melts my heart and makes me believe love doesn't have to include "diamond sunbursts and marble halls." Instead, he makes me feel that real love comes from someone who is familiar, someone who is a friend.

For as long as I can remember, much like Almanzo Wilder, I've been "in love" with Gilbert Blythe from the Anne of Green Gables books and movies. Gilbert Blythe far surpasses most male literary characters because his small, everyday acts. From some perspectives, Gilbert's love for Anne may come across boring or ordinary, but it's this kind of love, more than anything else, that makes me believe it's real. And like any fan of Anne Shirley, I will never settle for anything less than a Gilbert Blythe.

"I don't want sunbursts and marble halls. I just want you. You see I'm quite as shameless as Phil about it. Sunbursts and marble halls  may be all very well, but there is more 'scope for imagination' without them. And as for the waiting, that doesn't matter. We'll just be happy, waiting and working for each other--and dreaming. Oh, dreams will be very sweet now." -Anne to Gilbert, Anne of the Island 229. 

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1. He's clever

Throughout Anne and Gilbert's long history, Gilbert has been consistent in many ways. The most obvious is that he is clever. When they start school together, he's behind two grades due to helping his father, but he doesn't let that become an excuse to do poorly. Instead, he aims for being the top of the class...when Anne doesn't beat him: "She flung herself into her studies heart and soul, determined not to be outdone in any class by Gilbert Blythe" (Anne of Green Gables 155).

This "open rivalry" between them spurns Anne on to the best of her ability. Whether that was Gilbert's intention or not, it does work in favor for both of them: "The rivalry had been one-sided, but there was no longer any doubt that Gilbert was as determined to be first in class as Anne was" (Green Gables 279). They both do their best in school to beat each other out, which leads them to winning scholarships and other prizes over the years (Green Gables 328).

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"'Anne, you've passed,' she cried, 'passed the very first--you and Gilbert both--you're ties--but your name is first.'" -Diana, Anne of Green Gables 298.

When they go to college, it's Gilbert's cleverness that also helps the Freshmen win against the Sophomores (Anne of the Island 40-41). This earns Gilbert's spot as the president of the class and later as captain of the football team (Island 41, 48).

This rivalry also challenges Anne to be better beyond just academics. When she gives a recitation in front of others, it's Gilbert's presence that drives her to continue and not fail. She would be mortified to fail in front of him: "She saw Gilbert Blythe away at the back of the room, bending forward with a smile on his face--a smile which seemed to Anne at once triumphant and taunting" (Green Gables 309). Gilbert's cleverness challenges Anne to be a better person. It sets the base of their relationship, which allows them to grow together later when they get married and they have disagreements and must work together through their differences (Anne's House of Dreams).

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"Gilbert was a clever young fellow, with his own thoughts about things and a determination to get the best out of life and put the best into it." -Anne of Green Gables 322

2. He's supportive

In everything Gilbert does, he is supportive of Anne. When Anne gives her recitation, she believes his smile is meant as a taunt, but really, Gilbert was "merely smiling with appreciation of the whole affair in general" (Green Gables 309). It's not a secret that Gilbert cares very much for Anne and has cared for her from the beginning. Many times he shows up at Green Gables to check in on Anne, whether there's been a terrible storm or just to take her for a much-needed walk (Anne of Avonlea 49, 192-93; Anne of the Island 127). He comes by to congratulate her on winning a writing contest, and his words are what comforts her about the whole ordeal (Island 112-113).

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Anne, of course, notices this as well. When she refuses to forgive him for calling her carrots, she still has a longing to be friends with him: "It would be very pleasant to have such a friend as Gilbert to jest and chatter with and exchange ideas about books and studies and ambitions" (Green Gables 322). So when she finally does get over herself and forgive him, that's exactly what they do. They discuss their dreams and plans for college and beyond (Avonlea 51). When she tells him she wishes to add beauty to life, he tells her "I think you're fulfilling that ambition every day" (Avonlea 51). Gilbert supports her in everything she aims for.

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Thus he is pleased when she decides to go to college at the same time as him (Avonlea 210). He also shows his support for her time and time again when it comes to other relationships. He never puts his intentions where they don't belong. He doesn't court other girls; he has eyes only for Anne (Island 18). Later when they get married, he supports her by finding Anne "her house of dreams" (Anne's House of Dreams 17). He knows what she will like and picks it out just for her so she can be happy. In addition, he supports and loves her for who she is, not anybody else, just his Anne-girl:

"'I wouldn't have your hair any color but just what it is for the world,' said Gilbert, with one or two convincing accompaniments. 'You wouldn't be Anne if you had golden hair--or hair of any color, but--'
'Red,' said Anne, with gloomy satisfaction.
'Yes, red--to give warmth to that milk-white skin and those shining gray-green eyes of yours. Golden hair wouldn't suit you at all, Queen Anne--my Queen Anne--queen of my heart and life and home.'" -Gilbert and Anne, Anne's House of Dreams 85

3. He has a big heart

One of the reasons Gilbert is so supportive is that he has a big heart. A lot of his smaller actions are driven by this characteristic. He cares a lot for the well-being of other people, which is why he decides early on that he wants to be a doctor.

"Gilbert had finally made up his mind that he was going to be a doctor.[...] 'I want to fight disease and pain and ignorance...which are all members one of another. I want to do my share of honest, real work in the world'" -Anne of Avonlea 51.

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This kind of dream takes a lot of hard work, and Gilbert doesn't shy away from it. He works toward it with everything in him, even working so hard he becomes ill himself. But he doesn't give in. He works hard to be the best in college, and every summer he works hard to make money to keep going with his dream (Island 216; Windy Poplars 190).

"As I drove home this morning, while the sun was rising over the harbor, I thanked God that I had chosen the profession I did. I had fought a good fight and won--think of it, Anne, won, against the Great Destroyer. It's what I dreamed of doing long ago when we talked together of what we wanted to do in life" -Gilbert, Anne's House of Dreams 47.

His heart also filters into other aspects of his life, including his relationship with others. He's known as being loyal and truthful (House of Dreams 15). Although he's known as a friendly person, he would never put his intentions where they didn't belong (Island 225). When Ruby Gillis writes to him, he only writes back out of courtesy (Island 43). He only appears by Christine Stuart's side because he promised her brother he would watch over her at college (Island 227). He has a big heart for all people. He does small things to show his care and consideration.

This is part of the reason why he's so adamant for Anne to forgive him after he calls her "Carrots." He wants her to know that he truly does care for her and that he didn't mean anything by it.

"'Anne,' he said hurriedly, 'look here. Can't we be good friends? I'm awfully sorry I made fun of your hair that time. I didn't mean to vex you and I only meant it for a joke. Besides, it's so long ago. I think your hair is awfully pretty now--honest, I do. Let's be friends.'" -Gilbert, Anne of Green Gables 256.

So even though she refuses to forgive him, he still saves her from drowning and admires her from afar (Green Gables 255). He wishes to be her friend. He even gives her the Avonlea school so she can stay close to home and teach, despite that he will have to spend money to board to teach at another school (Green Gables 347).

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Later, after Anne refuses his marriage proposal, he doesn't blame her. Yes, he's deeply hurt because he believe there is no one else for him than Anne, but he doesn't whine about being friendzoned. Instead, he blames himself: "There isn't anything to forgive. There have been times when I thought you did care. I've deceived myself, that's all" (Island 138). While it's disheartening, he doesn't give up hope. He doesn't push Anne or badmouth her. He continues their friendship as best as he can and allows her time to make her own decision about him (Island 157). But he also never gives up on her and trying to win her love.

"He still looked upon Anne with the incredulous eyes of a lover. He couldn't wholly believe yet that she was really his." -Anne's House of Dreams 167.

4. He's familiar

For Anne, Gilbert Blythe becomes a part of home. She's glad when she learns he's in the same class at Queen's because not only can their rivalry continue, but he's a comfort in a new setting (Green Gables 316). The same happens when they go to college; Gilbert's presence nearby comforts Anne's jitters of being away from Avonlea (Island 11). But more than that, Gilbert is familiar.

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When she refuses his proposal. they stop seeing each other frequently, and Anne misses him and his presence (Island 147). She tries to tell herself that Roy Gardner can make up for Gilbert's absence, but she's only fooling herself. She finds Gilbert lingering in her mind (Avonlea 242).

"Gilbert would never have dreamed of writing a sonnet to her eyebrows. But then, Gilbert could see a joke. She had once told Roy a funny story--and he could not see the point of it. She recalled the chummy laugh she and Gilbert had had over it, and wondered uneasily if life with a man who had no sense of humor might not be somewhat uninteresting in the long run." -Anne of the Island 167.

Thus when graduation comes around, Anne chooses to wear the familiar flowers Gilbert sent her instead of Roy's flowers because they reminded her of home (Island 206). In addition, when Gilbert falls ill and is on the brink of death, Anne worries over Gilbert's absence from her life. She can't fathom life without Gilbert: "If Gilbert went away from her, without one word or sign or measure, she could not live. Nothing was of any value without him. She belonged to him and he to her" (Island 222).

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And most everybody else can see the familiarity between them. On more than one occasion, other voices chime in on their opinion of the couple. Rachel Lynde claims they'll be a match, and Marilla silently agrees (Island 20). Everybody who sees them together thinks they are a good couple, even if Anne can't see it (Avonlea 227; Island 173).

"'I wonder why everybody seems to think I ought to marry Gilbert Blythe,' said Anne petulantly.
'Because you were made and meant for each other, Anne--that is why. You needn't toss that young head of yours. It's a fact.'" -Anne and Miss Lavender, Anne of the Island 150. 

So when Anne refuses Roy Gardner's proposal, she claims it's because she "wants someone who belongs in my life. He doesn't. I was swept off my feet at first by his good looks and knock of paying romantic compliments" (Island 213). She realizes that Gilbert does belong in her life; that he has always belonged, since day one. Gilbert isn't the guy who is easily forgotten; he's the guy who fits perfectly into life. He's a piece of home; he's part of the Island.

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"Well, thank goodness that Anne and Gilbert really are going to be married after all. It's what I've always prayed for. [...] Gilbert is poor--at least, to begin with; but then he's an Island boy." -Rachel Lynde, Anne's House of Dreams 13. 

5. He's a best friend

More than anything, though, Gilbert is Anne's best friend. He makes good on being a friend. He's familiar with Anne, and he has a long history with her. From the beginning, he doesn't give up on her. He wants to be her friend: "'We are going to be the best of friends,' said Gilbert, jubilantly. 'We were born to be good friends, Anne. You've thwarted destiny long enough'" (Green Gables 349).

This strengthens their relationship later down the road. They know each other well and can look back on the past (read: mistakes) with fondness. This also opens up the opportunity for Gilbert and Anne to recognize their true feelings and desires. Gilbert never had any doubt in his mind that Anne was the one he wanted to marry: "'There was nobody else--there never could be anybody else for me but you. I've loved you since that day you broke your slate over my head in school'" (Island 228).

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But Anne doesn't realize her true feelings right away. In fact, she's mortified to think of Gilbert in any other way than as a friend. She doesn't wish to lose the strong friendship they've built because of romance.

"'Oh, don't say it,' cried Anne, pleadingly. 'Don't--please, Gilbert.'
'I must. Things can't to on like this any longer. Anne, I love you. You know I do. I--I can't tell you how much. Will you promise me that someday you'll be my wife?'" -Anne and Gilbert, Anne of the Island 137.

This experience gives Anne the chance to search her true feelings. She comes to the realization that she wants Gilbert, her best friend, to be the person she has in her life always and forever (Island 222). Their friendship becomes the basis for their romance, which strengthens their love and marriage. They realize that friendship cannot satisfy them; they want each other's love (Island 138). They may still have doubts of whether they can measure up, but in the end, their friendship allows them the comfort and knowledge that they "belonged to each other" (House of Dreams 26). They learn they have nothing to fear; they know each other well. They work together because of the strength of their friendship.

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Gilbert desires to be Anne's friend so he can get to know her, to find out what she loves and who she is. He does so because of his care and support for her; he wants her to become familiar in his life. And then, he knows he can be worthy to love her. But it all started with their friendship.

"Perhaps, after all, romance did not come into one's life with pomp and blare, like a gay knight riding down; perhaps it crept to one's side like an old friend through quiet ways; perhaps it revealed itself in seeming prose, until some sudden shaft of illumination flung athwart its pages betrayed the rhythm and the music; perhaps...perhaps...love unfolded naturally out of a beautiful friendship, as a golden-hearted rose slipping from its green sheath." -Anne of Avonlea 249. 

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Gilbert Blythe is a literary gentleman for his big heart and soft demeanor. He doesn't have to be rich or full of pomp to catch anybody's attention. He is known for his friendliness, honesty, and kindness (and maybe some teasing). His quality traits and familiar aura capture Anne's heart--and thousands of girls over the years. We don't need diamond sunbursts or marble halls; we just need a man like Gilbert Blythe to sweep us away with his Island charm and big heart.

"I love you because you aren't pompous like Dr. Carter...and I love you because you haven't got sticky-out ears like Johnny. And...the every best reason of all...I love you for just being Gilbert!" -Anne in a letter to Gilbert, Anne of Windy Poplars 78.

All quotes come from the Anne of Green Gables series by L.M. Montgomery: Anne of Green Gables (originally published 1908), Anne of Avonlea (originally published 1909), Anne of the Island (originally published 1915), Anne of Windy Poplars (originally published 1936), and Anne's House of Dreams (originally published 1917). 

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