Subject
Hermits -- Fiction Books
Best books
Anatole France
Thais
"Thais" by Anatole France is a novel published in 1890. Based on the life of a legendary 4th-century Egyptian saint, it tells the story of Paphnuce, an ascetic hermit who travels to Alexandria to convert Thais, a famous libertine beauty. When he succeeds in bringing her to Christianity, an unexpected transformation occurs—he becomes obsessed with her former life while she devotes herself to repentance. Their spiritual journeys take ironic and tragic turns in this tale of faith, desire, and illusion.
William Stearns Davis
The Saint of the Dragon's Dale: A Fantastical Tale
"The Saint of the Dragon's Dale: A Fantastical Tale" by William Stearns Davis is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story presents a rich tapestry of medieval intrigue, featuring the titular character, Jerome, a hermit known for his piety and rumored sainthood, as he embarks on a quest to rescue a noble maid named Agnes from the grasp of the nefarious Baron Ulrich. Set in a time of knights and magic, the novel weaves themes of temptation, moral struggle, and the interplay between good and evil. At the start of the tale, the reader is introduced to Jerome, who lives in seclusion at the Dragon's Dale, steeped in prayer and penitence. The narrative quickly unfolds as others bring him news of a little maid, Agnes, who has been captured by Baron Ulrich during a raid. Jerome's conviction to rescue her leads him through a series of supernatural encounters, foreshadowing the trials he will face, including the temptations that arise from his growing affection for Agnes. As he prepares to confront Ulrich, the stage is set for a classic battle between the saintly and the wicked, promising readers a blend of thrilling adventure and deep moral questions.
Anatole France
Thaïs
"Thaïs" by Anatole France is a novel published in 1890. An ascetic hermit named Paphnuce travels from the Egyptian desert to Alexandria seeking Thaïs, a beautiful courtesan he once knew. He succeeds in converting her to Christianity, but as she retreats to a convent to repent, he becomes haunted by her former life and beauty. Their spiritual journeys take unexpected turns, leading to a profound reversal of faith and desire that questions the nature of salvation itself.
R. R. (Russell Robert) Winterbotham
Oridin's Formula
"Oridin's Formula" by R. R. Winterbotham is a science fiction story written in the early 1940s. The narrative explores themes of ambition, power, and the complexity of human desires as it unfolds on the planetoid Azair. The primary focus is on a mathematical equation that has the potential to grant its possessor the ability to control the universe. The story centers around Oridin, a recluse who possesses a secret formula related to certainty in success, which a space pirate named Caddo seeks in order to conquer Earth and thus rule the universe. Their interaction develops into a psychological clash, as Caddo initially threatens Oridin but soon finds himself captivated by the promise of the formula. As Caddo becomes increasingly obsessed with the notion of achieving absolute power through the mathematical principles laid out by Oridin, he loses his grip on reality, ultimately becoming a mere husk of his former self. The tale concludes with Oridin returning to his solitude, highlighting the perils of unrestrained ambition while illustrating the enigmatic relationship between knowledge, power, and personal fulfillment.
Horatio Alger
Robert Coverdale's Struggle
"Robert Coverdale's Struggle" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the protagonist, Robert Coverdale, a strong and determined boy who is struggling to rise above the challenges presented by his circumstances, including an irresponsible uncle and a life of poverty. As Robert seeks to support his aunt and himself, the narrative unfolds in a small fishing village where resilience and moral fortitude are put to the test. The opening of the book introduces us to Robert Coverdale, who lives with his aunt Jane in a cabin by the sea. His uncle, John Trafton, is a fisherman who spends most of his earnings on alcohol, leaving Robert to shoulder the family responsibilities at just fifteen. We see Robert's passionate determination not to follow his uncle's destructive path and his dedication to supporting his aunt, even going so far as to catch fish to provide for their meager meals. As tensions escalate, particularly regarding the uncle's demands for Robert’s earnings, Robert's resolve begins to crystallize. The opening chapters set the scene for a tale of perseverance, highlighting Robert’s internal struggles as he grapples with loyalty, family obligations, and the ambition to improve their situation while standing firm against his uncle’s tyranny.
Anatole France
Thais
"Thais" by Anatole France is a novel published in 1890. Based on the life of a legendary 4th-century saint, it tells the story of Paphnuce, an ascetic hermit who travels to Alexandria to convert Thais, a beautiful libertine he once knew. He succeeds in bringing her to Christianity, but their spiritual journey takes an unexpected turn as he becomes haunted by her former life while she finds faith. A tale of devotion, temptation, and the blurred lines between salvation and desire.
Martin Armstrong
Desert : $b A legend
"Desert: A Legend" by Martin Armstrong is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Malchus, a young man from an elite Alexandrian family, who abandons his comfortable urban life in pursuit of spiritual meaning and personal transformation during the era of early Christianity. The book examines the tensions between worldly pleasures, intellectual pursuits, religious faith, and the desire for ascetic renunciation, weaving these themes into Malchus's journey toward the desert and his interactions with the hermit Serapion. The opening of the novel follows Malchus as he leaves his family and city behind, propelled by inner turmoil stemming from a failed love affair with the beautiful Helena and a growing aversion to the empty sophistication of his social circle. Scenes shift from his solitary walk through the sun-baked streets of Alexandria, to a philosophical dinner party hosted by his friend Diocles, to a fateful encounter with the enigmatic hermit Serapion. Malchus, disillusioned by pleasure and reason alike, is drawn to the austere world of the desert monks. He follows Serapion across the lake and into the wilderness, enduring physical exhaustion and spiritual distress as he seeks admission to a life of solitude and divine discipline. The opening vividly conveys Malchus’s psychological transformation, his longing for escape from worldly entanglements, and the daunting challenges that accompany his quest for spiritual authenticity.
Robert Hugh Benson
The History of Richard Raynal, Solitary
"The History of Richard Raynal, Solitary" by Robert Hugh Benson is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story chronicles the life and experiences of Richard Raynal, an English hermit living during the late medieval period, focusing on his mystical encounters, spiritual trials, and ultimately, his mission to deliver a message to the King. The narrative is enriched by the perspective of Sir John Chaldfield, Richard's parish priest, who serves as both a biographer and a witness to Richard's holy journey. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the rich spiritual landscape of medieval England, setting the stage for Master Richard's life as a solitary who literally and metaphorically walks a path of contemplation and divine communication. It begins with Sir John reflecting on his visits to Richard, who is depicted living an ascetic and peaceful life amid nature. The tranquil setting contrasts with the societal norms of the time, emphasizing the unique path Richard has chosen. The narrative quickly transitions to a pivotal moment when Richard, sensing a divine calling, embarks on a journey to deliver a message to the King, which sets in motion a series of events that will test his faith and commitment to God amidst worldly trials. This exposition not only introduces Richard's character but also foreshadows the significant challenges he will face in the royal court, where his spiritual insights will clash with political realities.
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