Henri Massis
La vie d'Ernest Psichari
"La vie d'Ernest Psichari" by Henri Massis is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the life of Ernest Psichari, a young man of exceptional ideals, who rejected conventional academic life to embrace a path of sacrifice and action in service of his country and faith. The book reflects on themes of heroism, spirituality, and the search for identity within the socio-political context of France during that era. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Ernest Psichari as a figure embodying both the struggles and aspirations of his generation. The text discusses his decision to leave academia to pursue a military career, driven by a profound sense of duty and a desire for redemptive action. It highlights his internal conflicts, the purity of his ideals, and the longing for personal and spiritual fulfillment, suggesting that his military endeavors were as much about external battles as they were about an inner quest for meaning and reconciliation with his family's legacy, particularly in regard to his grandfather, Émile Renan. The opening sets a compelling foundation for exploring Psichari's intense journey toward faith, responsibility, and ultimately, a noble death in the line of duty.