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Carthage (Extinct city) -- History -- Fiction Books

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Gustave Flaubert

Salammbo

"Salammbo" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in ancient Carthage during the Mercenary Revolt following the First Punic War, it follows Salammbô, a priestess and daughter of General Hamilcar Barca, who becomes entangled in a desperate conflict when a mercenary leader steals Carthage's sacred veil. The novel blends vivid historical detail with a tale of obsession, warfare, and forbidden desire as mercenaries besiege the city and Salammbô must navigate treacherous political and spiritual forces.

G. A. (George Alfred) Henty

The Young Carthaginian: A Story of The Times of Hannibal

"The Young Carthaginian: A Story of The Times of Hannibal" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers on the struggles of Carthage during the tumultuous times of the Punic Wars, particularly focusing on the life and training of a young warrior named Malchus, the son of Hamilcar Barca. As Malchus navigates the complexities of war and politics, the story depicts themes of ambition, military prowess, and the crumbling political landscape of Carthage in comparison to the rising power of Rome. The opening of the book outlines a preface that reflects the author’s intention to explore the events of the Punic Wars from a Carthaginian perspective. The narrator introduces a gathering of soldiers in the Libyan desert, detailing their weariness under the harsh sun and the diverse makeup of the Carthaginian forces, including Numidians and Iberians. The scene transitions into a characterization of Malchus, who, under the tutelage of his father, Hamilcar, is trained rigorously for the challenges ahead, positioning him as a capable protagonist. As the narrative unfolds, Malchus expresses eagerness for an impending lion hunt and shares discussions about the state of Carthage, hinting at the political unrest and challenges looming on the horizon, thus setting a dramatic backdrop for the story that is about to unfold.

Gustave Flaubert

Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 2: Salammbô

"Œuvres complètes de Gustave Flaubert, tome 2: Salammbô" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in third-century BC Carthage, it depicts the Mercenary War between the city and barbarian mercenaries who revolted after being denied promised wages following the First Punic War. Flaubert traveled to Tunisia in 1858 to immerse himself in the landscape and atmosphere. He created a vivid, sensual, and violent portrait of an exotic ancient world, drawing on limited historical sources to craft his epic tale.

Gustave Flaubert

Salambó

"Salambó" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in third-century BC Carthage during the Mercenary War following Carthage's defeat by Rome, the story follows Salammbô, a priestess and fictional daughter of General Hamilcar Barca. When unpaid mercenaries revolt against the city, their leader Matho becomes obsessed with Salammbô and steals Carthage's sacred veil—the zaimph—believed to protect the city. Flaubert meticulously reconstructs Carthaginian culture through detailed descriptions of battles, customs, and daily life, blending historical figures with romantic fiction.

Andrew Haggard

Hannibal's daughter

"Hannibal's Daughter" by Lieut. Col. Andrew Haggard, D.S.O. is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story delves into the dramatic and violent events surrounding the Carthaginian General Hamilcar Barca, his fierce opposition to the Romans, and the legacy he instills in his son, Hannibal. Central to the narrative is young Hannibal, who is introduced in the midst of familial conflict and the harsh realities of warfare, setting the stage for his eventual rise and the conflicts that will define his life. The opening of the book paints a vivid picture of ancient Carthage and introduces Hamilcar Barca as he reflects on his past conquests and future aspirations for vengeance against Rome. Through a blend of personal introspection and historical context, the narrative showcases Hamilcar's pride, anger, and determination, especially as he encourages young Hannibal to embrace his heritage and foster a hatred for their enemies. This father-son dynamic is further enriched as Hannibal vows to carry out their family legacy of military prowess. The detailed descriptions of the surroundings, coupled with the familial teachings, provide a rich backdrop for the unfolding tale of love, ambition, and warfare against a historical setting, ultimately suggesting a deeper exploration of themes such as loyalty, vengeance, and the burdens of legacy.

Gustave Flaubert

Salambo: Ein Roman aus Alt-Karthago

"Salambo: Ein Roman aus Alt-Karthago" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in ancient Carthage after the First Punic War, it follows the mercenary uprising of 241-238 BC. The fictional Salammbô, daughter of General Hamilcar Barca, becomes entangled with Mâtho, a Libyan mercenary who steals a sacred veil from the temple of Tanit. Their forbidden attraction unfolds amid brutal warfare, religious devotion, and political intrigue as Carthage battles for survival against its rebellious soldiers.

Gustave Flaubert

Salammbo: Historiallinen romaani

"Salammbo: Historiallinen romaani" by Gustave Flaubert is a historical novel published in 1862. Set in ancient Carthage during the Mercenary Revolt of 241–237 BCE, it follows Salammbô, a priestess and daughter of General Hamilcar Barca, who becomes entangled in conflict when mercenary leader Matho steals Carthage's sacred veil. Driven by obsessive desire, Matho's theft forces Salammbô into the enemy camp to reclaim the city's guardian treasure, setting in motion a tale of warfare, betrayal, and forbidden passion.

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