Thaïs by Anatole France
"Thaïs" is a historical novel set in Egypt during the 4th century, revolving around a beautiful and hedonistic courtesan, and a Christian ascetic monk who becomes obsessed with her. The monk, seeking to save her soul, convinces her to abandon her life of luxury and pleasure to live in a convent as a penitent. However, as she finds peace and salvation in her new life, the monk is tormented by his repressed desires and lust for her, ultimately leading to his own spiritual downfall. The novel explores themes of desire, faith, and the destructive power of obsession.
The 1395th greatest book of all time
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This book is on the following lists:
- 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die (The Book)
- Harold Bloom's The Western Canon (The Western Canon (Book) by Harold Bloom)