By Rebecca Reed
It’s all about the boys. We have made a list of our ultimate fictional lads. Whether they are the cheeky chappy or the suave and generous gentleman, we are all about the brilliant boyish charm of some of literary’s finest offerings.
Aragorn (Lord of the Rings)
A Ranger of the North and introduced to us as Strider, Aragorn was eventually discovered to be the heir of Isildur and the rightful claimant to the thrones of Arnor and Gondor. He also found himself as a key part of the quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron.
An unsung hero in the Lord of the Rings he is one of our favourites.
“If by my life or death I can protect you, I will. ”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
Finnick (The Hunger Games)
Finnick is a Career Tribute in the Hunger Games, he won his first games at the age of 14. He represented District 4, the fishing district. This made him very knowledgeable in knot tying, and aided in him winning his first hunger games and assisting in the destruction of the arena for the 75th Hunger Games. His charm and physical skill made him a hit with the Capitol and he received a lot of gifts in his time in the arena that would aid in him winning. Once Annie has been captured by the not so pleasant President Snow, he becomes a rebel in a bid to overthrow the Capitol in order to see Annie again. His charm and love for his beloved Annie make him a sensitive but troubled soul, whilst during a mission to President Snow’s mansion, the group is attacked and Finnick sadly does not survive. He left behind his wife Annie and his son.
“Want a sugar cube?”
― Suzanne Collins, Catching Fire
Mr Darcy (Pride and Prejudice)
Not a charming man at first, he is respected among his peers for his fortune and demeanour, even though he believed himself as superior to them. Handsome, witty and rich, Mr Darcy is the epitome of a literary fangirl’s dream. He learns from his mistakes and owns up to them and his romance with Elizabeth is matched so perfectly.
“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”
― Jane Austen, Pride And Prejudice
Noah Calhoun (The Notebook)
The romantic and lovable cheeky chap from The Notebook, that is Noah Calhoun. He is absolutely besotted with the love of his life, Allie Hamilton. He is devoted and passionate and these are all the best qualities to have when you do not have much else. He makes the most of every date between Allie and himself during their Summer together. He does not come from a wealthy family however, you can tell he comes from a family that loves him, his father would spend nights with him on his porch whilst Noah read poetry that would help with his stutter.
“So it’s not gonna be easy. It’s going to be really hard; we’re gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me… everyday.”
― Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook
Rhett Butler (Gone with the Wind)
Rhett Butler, the smooth talking and arrogant scoundrel. We just can’t help but fall head over heels for him. he ends up falling for Scarlett O’Hara, despite the fact she is with someone else. Even as an outsider he was accepted by his fellow associates for his charm and educated ideas. It’s clearly all in the moustache and smile that they couldn’t ignore. Scarlett, couldn’t ignore it either. They made our list of our favourite literary power couples. You can read that here
“Scarlett, always save something to fear—even as you save something to love.”
― Margaret Mitchell, Gone with the Wind
Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby)
Jay Gatsby, the self-made man living in the USA during the Jazz era. throughout the book, we learn that he earned his money through bootlegging during the Prohibition when alcohol was banned. The previously poor man is now one of the most cherished socialites of his time. He believes that his wealth and power will win him the heart of the already married Daisy who he has loved for years. He has a great sense of style, fun, and has naturally good looks. Jay is the life of every social occasion and the talk among the rich and powerful. Envied and desired, Jay Gatsby is thought to be the quintessential American icon.
“Never miss a party…good for the nerves–like celery.”
― F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gatsby Girls
You can shop all these books and more here at World of Books. Who is your favourite literary lad? Tell us in the comments below.
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