The Tales of Quip the Fool

Purpose

Quip is a fictional character that lives in the world of Merren. He is the King's Fool, or Court Jester, and often finds himself in trouble. The tales were initially intended as a means of entertainment, but they have become fables that are told to children as a means to curb their bad behaviours, as the outcomes for Quip are sometimes quite perilous.

Historical Details

Background

The tales contained in the book are all related to Quip, the King's Court Jester, and his follies. There are many variations of the text floating around, some specific to different regions or dialects, or containing stories that are not part of the original.
The original contains only four short stories, all dealing with a different folly.

Quip and the Feast at the King's Table

Quip has been travelling for days. He has been employed as the king's new court jester. Upon arrival at the keep, he is taken to the banquet hall, full of people, and is told to be ready to perform. Starved, he sits and starts to gorge himself upon food. It is only then he realises that he is seated in the king's chair, as the royal family is announced to the room.

Quip and the Battle of the Plains

Quip is conscripted to the royal army. The kingdom is about to be overrun by invaders and the king is preparing for a final push. Instead of fighting, Quip absconds, but is quickly caught and brought before the king on charges of treason.

Quip and the Treasure of Valrogth

Quip accompanies his the king to the Jagged Mountains to uncover the lost treasure of Valrogth, a long-dead dragon. When Quip finds the dragon's horde before the king, his greed overcomes him, and he turns on the king.

Quip and the Courting of the Princess

Quip finds the suitors presented to the Princess unacceptable and masquerades as a courtier from across the oceans. When the Princess falls in love, trouble ensues.

Type

Text, Literature

Authoring Date

Circa 1E 800