The Queen Pedauque

by Anatole France

"The Queen Pedauque" by Anatole France is a historical novel written in 1892. Set in early 18th-century France, it follows young Jacques Ménétrier, who works turning roasting spits in his father's shop until a learned abbot takes him as a student. Together, master and pupil enter the service of an eccentric alchemist obsessed with salamanders and sylphs. Their journey through a world of ancient texts, debauchery, and occult philosophy leads to unexpected consequences that will test their bond.