The Emperor of Portugallia

A father’s boundless love. A daughter’s fall. A dream that becomes reality.

In The Emperor of Portugallia, Selma Lagerlöf tells the deeply moving story of Jan Andersson, a poor Swedish farmer who adores his daughter Klara more than life itself. When Klara leaves for the city and falls into a life of shame and hardship, Jan’s mind breaks under the weight of grief and longing.

In his delusion, he crowns himself the Emperor of Portugallia, creating a magnificent imaginary kingdom where his daughter remains pure and beloved. With profound tenderness and psychological insight, Lagerlöf explores the power of love, the pain of loss, and the thin line between madness and grace in one of her most unforgettable novels.

• First published in 1914
• One of Selma Lagerlöf’s most beloved and emotionally powerful works
• A masterpiece of Swedish literature exploring love, delusion, and redemption

Formats and delivery

• Paperback — Elegant print edition presenting the complete, unabridged text. Ships in 3–5 business days.
• Hardcover — Elegant print edition presenting the complete, unabridged text. Ships in 5–7 business days.
• EPUB — DRM-free, compatible with Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, and all major e-readers. Instant download after purchase.
• Audiobook — Professionally narrated, complete and unabridged. Available on Audible, Spotify, Apple Books.

A timeless classic for readers who appreciate profound emotional storytelling and the quiet power of the human heart.

About the Author

Selma Lagerlöf (1858–1940) was a Swedish author and the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909. Renowned for her rich storytelling, moral depth, and vivid imagination, she is best known for The Wonderful Adventures of Nils and The Saga of Gösta Berling. Her works blend folklore, history, and profound human insight, making her one of Sweden’s most beloved and internationally acclaimed writers.