The History of Gil Blas of Santillana

First published in French nearly 300 years ago and a popular success throughout Europe, Gil Blas was the forerunner of heroes like Tom Jones or Barry Lyndon, a young innocent out to make his fortune. Now translated into modern English for the first time, Alain-René Lesage's classic tale was set in 17th century Spain. After initial calamities Gil Blas becomes a valet and assistant to a quack doctor. The experience ends badly, but he gradually rises throughout the ranks till finally he becomes secretary to the most powerful man in Spain