Homo Sum By: Georg Ebers (1837-1898)
In Homo Sum, Georg Ebers presents readers with a deeply introspective and thought-provoking novel that delves into philosophical questions central to human existence. Set in ancient Egypt, the story follows the life of the protagonist, Heinrich Schimmelmann, a renowned physician faced with a grave dilemma. Ebers displays remarkable skill in creating rich and vibrant historical settings, immersing readers in the world of Ancient Egypt with meticulous attention to detail. The author's extensive research shines through, painting a vivid picture of the society's customs, beliefs, and everyday life. This historical backdrop not only adds depth to the narrative but also serves as a stage for exploring timeless themes that resonate with modern-day readers. At the core of the novel lies the exploration of mortality and the concept of the afterlife. Ebers seamlessly weaves together elements of mysticism and spirituality, seamlessly integrating them into the storyline. As the narrative unfolds, Schimmelmann finds himself grappling with questions of morality, God's will, and the boundaries of human knowledge. Through his intellectual struggles, Ebers forces readers to confront their own beliefs and ponder the mysteries of life and death. The character development in Homo Sum is exemplary, with Schimmelmann serving as a captivating focal point. Ebers adeptly captures the inner turmoil of a man torn between duty, personal desires, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Supporting characters, such as Schimmelmann's friends and lovers, add depth to the story, their interactions serving not only as plot devices but also as vehicles for philosophical discussions. One aspect that sets Homo Sum apart is its prose, which is elegant and engaging. Ebers' descriptive language paints vivid images, effortlessly transporting readers to the bustling streets of ancient Egyptian cities or professorial chambers where heated debates take place. The author's ability to merge complex philosophical concepts with beautiful prose makes this novel a rewarding and immersive read. However, a potential drawback lies in the pacing of the story. At times, the narrative feels slow-moving, with prolonged philosophical musings that might be too introspective for some readers. While these segments contribute to the overall depth of the novel, they could also dampen the momentum of the plot. In conclusion, Homo Sum is an exceptional work that seamlessly combines historical fiction, philosophical inquiry, and captivating storytelling. Ebers' masterful ability to transport readers to ancient Egypt while exploring profound existential questions is truly commendable. Despite the occasionally sluggish pacing, Homo Sum will undoubtedly engage and challenge those who seek a thought-provoking read, leaving a lasting impression and prompting further introspection long after the final page is turned. First Page: HOMO SUM, Complete By Georg Ebers Translated by Clara Bell PREFACE. In the course of my labors preparatory to writing a history of the Sinaitic peninsula, the study of the first centuries of Christianity for a long time claimed my attention; and in the mass of martyrology, of ascetic writings, and of histories of saints and monks, which it was necessary to work through and sift for my strictly limited object, I came upon a narrative (in Cotelerius Ecclesiae Grecae Monumenta) which seemed to me peculiar and touching notwithstanding its improbability. Sinai and the oasis of Pharan which lies at its foot were the scene of action. When, in my journey through Arabia Petraea, I saw the caves of the anchorites of Sinai with my own eyes and trod their soil with my own feet, that story recurred to my mind and did not cease to haunt me while I travelled on farther in the desert. A soul's problem of the most exceptional type seemed to me to be offered by the simple course of this little history. An anchorite, falsely accused instead of another, takes his punishment of expulsion on himself without exculpating himself, and his innocence becomes known only through the confession of the real culprit. There was a peculiar fascination in imagining what the emotions of a soul might be which could lead to such apathy, to such an annihilation of all sensibility; and while the very deeds and thoughts of the strange cave dweller grew more and more vivid in my mind the figure of Paulus took form, as it were as an example, and soon a crowd of ideas gathered round it, growing at last to a distinct entity, which excited and urged me on till I ventured to give it artistic expression in the form of a narrative... Continue reading book >>

Homo Sum By: Georg Ebers (1837-1898)

In Homo Sum, Georg Ebers presents readers with a deeply introspective and thought-provoking novel that delves into philosophical questions central to human existence. Set in ancient Egypt, the story follows the life of the protagonist, Heinrich Schimmelmann, a renowned physician faced with a grave dilemma.

Ebers displays remarkable skill in creating rich and vibrant historical settings, immersing readers in the world of Ancient Egypt with meticulous attention to detail. The author's extensive research shines through, painting a vivid picture of the society's customs, beliefs, and everyday life. This historical backdrop not only adds depth to the narrative but also serves as a stage for exploring timeless themes that resonate with modern-day readers.

At the core of the novel lies the exploration of mortality and the concept of the afterlife. Ebers seamlessly weaves together elements of mysticism and spirituality, seamlessly integrating them into the storyline. As the narrative unfolds, Schimmelmann finds himself grappling with questions of morality, God's will, and the boundaries of human knowledge. Through his intellectual struggles, Ebers forces readers to confront their own beliefs and ponder the mysteries of life and death.

The character development in Homo Sum is exemplary, with Schimmelmann serving as a captivating focal point. Ebers adeptly captures the inner turmoil of a man torn between duty, personal desires, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Supporting characters, such as Schimmelmann's friends and lovers, add depth to the story, their interactions serving not only as plot devices but also as vehicles for philosophical discussions.

One aspect that sets Homo Sum apart is its prose, which is elegant and engaging. Ebers' descriptive language paints vivid images, effortlessly transporting readers to the bustling streets of ancient Egyptian cities or professorial chambers where heated debates take place. The author's ability to merge complex philosophical concepts with beautiful prose makes this novel a rewarding and immersive read.

However, a potential drawback lies in the pacing of the story. At times, the narrative feels slow-moving, with prolonged philosophical musings that might be too introspective for some readers. While these segments contribute to the overall depth of the novel, they could also dampen the momentum of the plot.

In conclusion, Homo Sum is an exceptional work that seamlessly combines historical fiction, philosophical inquiry, and captivating storytelling. Ebers' masterful ability to transport readers to ancient Egypt while exploring profound existential questions is truly commendable. Despite the occasionally sluggish pacing, Homo Sum will undoubtedly engage and challenge those who seek a thought-provoking read, leaving a lasting impression and prompting further introspection long after the final page is turned.

First Page:

HOMO SUM, Complete

By Georg Ebers

Translated by Clara Bell

PREFACE.

In the course of my labors preparatory to writing a history of the Sinaitic peninsula, the study of the first centuries of Christianity for a long time claimed my attention; and in the mass of martyrology, of ascetic writings, and of histories of saints and monks, which it was necessary to work through and sift for my strictly limited object, I came upon a narrative (in Cotelerius Ecclesiae Grecae Monumenta) which seemed to me peculiar and touching notwithstanding its improbability. Sinai and the oasis of Pharan which lies at its foot were the scene of action.

When, in my journey through Arabia Petraea, I saw the caves of the anchorites of Sinai with my own eyes and trod their soil with my own feet, that story recurred to my mind and did not cease to haunt me while I travelled on farther in the desert.

A soul's problem of the most exceptional type seemed to me to be offered by the simple course of this little history.

An anchorite, falsely accused instead of another, takes his punishment of expulsion on himself without exculpating himself, and his innocence becomes known only through the confession of the real culprit.

There was a peculiar fascination in imagining what the emotions of a soul might be which could lead to such apathy, to such an annihilation of all sensibility; and while the very deeds and thoughts of the strange cave dweller grew more and more vivid in my mind the figure of Paulus took form, as it were as an example, and soon a crowd of ideas gathered round it, growing at last to a distinct entity, which excited and urged me on till I ventured to give it artistic expression in the form of a narrative... Continue reading book >>

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