Pater Filucius

by Wilhelm Busch

"Pater Filucius" by Wilhelm Busch is an anticlerical satirical picture story published in 1872. Set against Germany's Kulturkampf, the tale follows wealthy Gottlieb Michael as the cunning Jesuit Pater Filucius schemes to steal his fortune. Through romantic pursuits of Michael's cousin and Catholic aunt, the priest enlists socialist accomplices in a sinister plot. Three loyal friends—a constable, teacher, and farmer—must intervene to save Michael. Busch's controversial satire became his most influential work, reaching massive sales despite later being called his weakest anticlerical effort.