The Legend of Ulenspiegel. Charles de Coster

This book is based on legends and folk stories of the German folk hero Thyl Owlmirror. The story reflects the events during the Dutch Revolt against the Spanish empire. This 16th century epic is compared to the stories of Don Quixote and Robin Hood by popularity. The main character of the story Thyl Ulenspiegel is a happy-to-go prankster, born with uncanny wit and spirit of observation. From the very childhood he exposes the ugly sides of people with humor, sarcasm, and mischief. All the childhood and early years Thyl amuses his closest with witty prank and jokes. Yet, one day, the tragedy enters his home. His father got accused for heresy and burned in fire. This sad event transforms Thyl. Now, he grows up and becomes a national leader in the revolt against the Spanish dictatorship.