The Witch's Head

"The Witch's Head" by H. Rider Haggard is a story about a young boy named Ernest Kershaw as he navigates an intricate web of family rivalries, love, and the difficulties of coming-of-age in the late 1800s. The narrative begins with Ernest arriving at his uncle's home, immediately throwing him into a complex family situation filled with old grudges and societal demands, especially in relation to his uncle, Reginald Cardus, and his cousin, Jeremy. The initial interactions reveal strains within the family, as Ernest feels the weight of expectations and unspoken resentments related to his deceased mother. The story also introduces Dorothy, whose observant nature has her play a critical role in the unfolding drama. The characters' connections and conversations hint at upcoming conflicts and strategic alliances against a meaningfully described historical context.