Actor Ethan Hawke will publish a novel set in the 15th century later this year.

Rules for a Knight is set in 1483 and tells the story of Cornish knight Sir Thomas Lemuel Hawke, who is about to ride into battle.

According to the book’s UK publisher Hutchinson, the story follows the Knight on the eve of battle when, fearing he might die, he writes a letter to his children.

The letter includes “20 virtues that provide instruction on how to live a noble life; the lessons, large and small, that he would like to impart to them”.

The book will be illustrated by Hawke’s wife Ryan Hawke.

Speaking about the book, Hawke’s publishers said: “Executed with wit and elegance, Rules for a Knight is a parable for all ages which has the potential to become a classic. With the appeal of an Arthurian legend and the economy of Aesop, it draws on Eastern and Western philosophy and literature. I think we all need to be reminded, as well as taught, how to live.”

Rules for a Knight will be published on November 12.