In 1540, in Languedoc, a wealthy farmer leaves behind his home, wife, and child and disappears. He returns - or at least that’s what everyone believes - after a few years, but soon his wife claims that he has fallen victim to a deception and takes to court the man who presented himself as her husband.

At the trial, the accused almost convinces the judges that he is the real Martin Guerre until - miraculously - the true husband appears at the last moment.

Natalie Zemon Davis resurrects this incredible but true story from oblivion to sensitively and originally approach the rural societies of the 16th century, their attitudes, mentalities, identities, and behaviors, as well as to remind us, with her rich, vibrant, and truly captivating writing, that historical knowledge can creatively coexist with the aesthetic pleasure offered by a wonderful narrative.

A landmark book in modern historiography that has been translated into many languages around the world and a legendary story that recently saw two successful film adaptations (Le retour de Martin Guerre with Gerard Depardieu and Sommerthby with Richard Gere).

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]