Gargantua and Pantagruel, Book IV

Rabelais's book consists of five books. The first is Gargantua, and the other four Pantagruel. The full title is: The very horrifying life of the great Gargantua, father of Pantagruel. Formerly composed by Mr. Alcofribas abstract of essence essence. Full book of Pantagruellism, or more simply Gargantua. Gargantua was written after Pantagruel but placed first by Rabelais. Grandgousier, Gargantua, Pantagruel are kings and giants who rule in Utopia, near Chinon, in Touraine. Such is the scene of the scene. As for action, it is impossible to follow; The author introduces his characters into life, recounts their childhood, makes the trial of the education which was given of his time; Then he sows, according to his fancy, the most diverse episodes, the digressions and the most burlesque. We shall not follow Grandgousier in all his peregrinations; We shall relate in this history only what is likely to make us appreciate in Rabelais the serious thinker who is ahead of his century. Grandgousier is a peaceful king, good and dear to his subjects. He is attacked, in defiance of all right, by King Picrochole. The King of Utopia, having exhausted all means of preserving peace, is obliged to have recourse to arms. Picrochole invaded the kingdom of Grandgousier, ravaged a whole country; But he is stopped in his course, beaten, and runs away, followed scarcely by a few companions. However, the conqueror, far from abusing his victory, respects the enemy's territory and restores freedom to the prisoners without ransom. This trait was a protest against the horrors and injustices of war.