Ηρωδιάς

by Gustave Flaubert

"Ηρωδιάς" by Gustave Flaubert is a short story published in 1877 as part of Three Tales. The work retells the biblical story of John the Baptist's execution. At Herod Antipas's birthday celebration, his wife Herodias orchestrates a deadly plan involving her daughter Salomé. Through a promise made to the dancing girl, the story leads to John's beheading while his disciples await the coming Messiah. Flaubert drew inspiration from Rouen Cathedral and his travels in Egypt.