A trilogy of novels (1892-1916) presents scenes and characters in the rural life of Denmark. The first book, _The Promised Land_, is depressing, strongly realistic in its hero, Emanuel, called by some critics “a prose Brand.” It is a tale of disillusionment, a revelation of the struggle of idealists in this world of material ambitions. It is written with care--three years was devoted to it--and the note of sincerity is marked. The second novel, _Lucky Peter_, to which the author devoted four years, is partly subjective. The hero, like his author, was son of a clergyman and studied as an engineer. _The Kingdom of the Dead_, written during the war years, reflects such influences with a stronger tone of patriotism than is dominant in the author’s other tales; it is loosely constructed but it gives clear glimpses of Copenhagen, both in city streets and outlying districts. _The Apothecary’s Daughter_ has been translated by G. Nielsen (London, 1890). In an English edition of Pontoppidan’s stories, _The Promised Land_ and _Emanuel, or Children of the Soil_, translated by Mrs. Edgar Lucas, with several illustrations by Nelly Erichsen (London, 1896), the illustrator explains the author’s purpose in the chapters of _The Evolution of the Danish Peasant_. He has chosen a disturbing period in educational and religious life after the Danish peasant was transformed from a slave to a citizen, by the act of 1849. Political parties, “The National-Liberal” and “Friends of the Peasants,” were formed and high schools were established. Then, by a revision of 1866, the liberties of the peasants were again threatened and despair settled on their minds. In two remote villages, Veilby and Skibberup, prototypes of the places where the author had lived and taught for a time and knew the people, he has portrayed their customs and revolts in a vivid, descriptive style. In some of his short stories, like “Eagle’s Flight” and “Mimosas,” Pontoppidan reveals himself at his best as narrator. He is deeply interested in educational progress for his people; he urges freedom from hypocrisy and weak compromises. Idealist in his aspirations and photographer of Danish life in town and country, he is an author whose writings will be appreciated as the years add to their interpretations and translations. KARL GJELLERUP The prize of 1917 has been awarded, one half to: Gjellerup, Karl, born 1857, died October 13, 1919: “for his many-sided, rich, and inspired writing with high ideals.”[117]