91 pages 3 hours read

François Rabelais, Transl. Thomas Urquhart

Gargantua And Pantagruel

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1564

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Book 4, Prologue-Chapter 20Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 4: “The Fourth Book of Pantagruel”

Book 4, Prologue Summary

Since readers loved the Third Book of Pantagruel, the narrator states Pantagruel’s story will continue. Readers must follow the principle of moderation, as both the Bible and ancient Greek and Roman works of literature say the mean or balance is golden. One must leave their fate to God, avoid predestination, and stay healthy!

Book 4, Chapter 1 Summary: “How Pantagruel put to sea […]”

Pantagruel’s party boards their ship, the Thalamege, at the port of Thalasse. The Thalassans drink to their health.

Book 4, Chapter 2 Summary: “How Pantagruel purchased […]”

The ship docks at the island of Medamothi on the fourth day of the journey. Pantagruel buys a series of tapestries featuring the life of Achilles, three unicorns, and a tarand (bull-like animal) at the island festival.

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