Valekuollut: Romaani

by Mór Jókai

"Valekuollut: Romaani" by Mór Jókai is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a monastery where a group of Jesuit fathers engages in a heated discussion about sending a tutor to a troublesome young noble. The main character introduced is Siegfried, a novice monk who learns he has been chosen for this daunting task, setting the stage for his complex journey into the world of nobility, education, and potential danger. The opening of the novel presents the Jesuit fathers in secret deliberation, with the character Johannes eavesdropping. Johannes discovers that the wealthy Domicella seeks a tutor for her mischievous son, causing amusement and concern among the monks. We meet Siegfried, who is portrayed as humble but earnest, and who ultimately faces the challenge of going to the castle to educate the young noble. The tone of the narrative is filled with both comedic elements and a sense of foreboding as Siegfried contemplates the responsibilities thrust upon him, hinting at conflicts that will arise from his new role and the personalities he will encounter in the noble household.