One of the last works completed by Isak Dinesen before her recent death, Ehrengard belongs to her Gothic Tales, in her own words "fairy tales with dark shadows". It is concerned – on one level – with the dynastic complications of a small but turbulent duchy, and the provision of an heir to the house of Fugger-Babenhausen. Ehrengard is the young Valkyrie who is drawn steadily deeper into an unwanted role in the intrigue, her powerful but only half-awakened nature subjected to appalling conflicts of loyalty, but not overwhelmed. Disquieting, clairvoyant, and with a faint, bewitching humour, this is creative writing of intense originality. -from jacket of first edition 1963
Author
Pseudonym used by the Danish author Karen Blixen. Baroness Karen von Blixen-Finecke (Danish: [kʰɑːɑn ˈb̥leɡ̊sn̩]; 17 April 1885 – 7 September 1962), born Karen Christentze Dinesen, was a Danish author, also known by the pen name Isak Dinesen, who wrote works in Danish, French and English. She also at times used the pen names Tania Blixen, Osceola, and Pierre Andrézel. Blixen is best known for Out of Africa, an account of her life while living in Kenya, and for one of her stories, Babette's Feast, both of which have been adapted into Academy Award-winning motion pictures. She is also noted for her Seven Gothic Tales, particularly in Denmark. (wikipedia)
