Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Redwall.
What is Redwall?
Redwall is a long-running series of children's fantasy novels by Brian Jacques that follows the adventures of anthropomorphic animals living in and around an ancient abbey. The stories typically contrast peaceful, vegetarian communities with violent, carnivorous villains who seek to conquer their home.
Who wrote the Redwall books?
The entire series was written by British author Brian Jacques, who began publishing them in 1986 before his death in 2011. He created a unique world filled with animal characters that speak, cook, and fight using human-like tools and customs.
Where should a new reader start?
Newcomers are best served by beginning with the first book, 'Redwall,' which establishes the core setting, traditions, and main recurring characters. While the books can be read in any order due to their largely standalone plots, starting chronologically provides the most complete background on the abbey's history.
What is the significance of the Abbey?
Redwall Abbey serves as a sanctuary for herbivorous animals who live by a code of peace, hospitality, and shared meals. It acts as the central battleground where various villains attempt to seize control, only to be repelled by the brave defenders within.
Who are the most famous characters in the series?
Key figures include Martin the Warrior, a legendary mouse who founded the abbey's spirit of defense; Matthias, a young hero from the first book; and Cluny the Scourge, the recurring arch-villain. These characters appear across multiple books or serve as foundational legends for later generations.
What is the 'Bell'?
The Bell is a sacred artifact within the abbey that rings to signal danger or call the inhabitants together during times of crisis. It symbolizes the unity and resilience of the Redwall community against overwhelming odds.
Why do the animals fight in these stories?
Violence in the series usually arises when predatory villains, such as rats or weasels, invade the peaceful abbey to steal food or enslave its residents. The animal defenders are forced into combat solely to protect their home and way of life from destruction.
Are there any recurring villains?
Yes, several notorious antagonists appear in multiple books, most notably Cluny the Scourge, who leads a massive horde of rats against the abbey on three separate occasions. Other recurring threats include the evil vermin leader Vermin and various tyrannical leaders like the Badger.
What makes the food descriptions so famous?
Brian Jacques is renowned for his elaborate, mouth-watering descriptions of feasts featuring pies, stews, and fruits that play a central role in the story's culture. These culinary details emphasize the contrast between the peaceful abundance of the abbey and the starvation or cruelty of the villains.
How many books are in the Redwall series?
Brian Jacques wrote 22 novels in total before his passing, with several additional titles published posthumously based on his notes. The series spans over two decades of storytelling, creating a vast timeline of animal history and legend.