Fourth Book of Pantagruel: Introduction, Prologue, To the Most Illustrious Prince, The Royal Privilege, The Prologue of the Author, and Chapters 1-5 (p. 615-680) Summary

The Introduction states this book was written in 1548, the Prologue says Pantagruel's story will continue since the third book was to readers' tastes, and To the Most-Illustrious Prince and Most Reverend Lord the Cardinal de Chatillon is a dedicatory letter addressed to Rabelais' patron. The Royal Privilege gives the right to reprint the story to King Henry of France, and the Prologue of the Author advises the reader to humble himself before God, after discussing reality and the limits of free will.

In chapter one, the inhabitants of Thalasse drink to the health of Pantagruel and his...