Eugène Sue
The Iron Pincers; or, Mylio and Karvel: A Tale of the Albigensian Crusades
"The Iron Pincers; or, Mylio and Karvel: A Tale of the Albigensian Crusades" by Eugene Sue is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This work is part of a larger collection known as "The Mysteries of the People," which chronicles the lives of a proletarian family across different eras. The narrative centers around Mylio, a Trouvere, and explores themes of love, betrayal, and societal norms during the tumultuous period of the Albigensian Crusades. The opening of this tale is set in the orchard of Marphise, the Lady of Ariol, where a group of noblewomen indulge in light-hearted banter about their secret loves, oblivious to the chaos surrounding them. This leisurely gathering quickly turns to tension when they discover that they have collectively been seduced by the same man, Mylio—causing outrage among the women who now seek vengeance for his deceit. As the plot unfolds, Mylio grapples with his relationships and the impending consequences of a life steeped in romantic entanglements, setting the stage for drama and conflict against the backdrop of historical events.