The World's Illusion, Volume 2 (of 2): Ruth

"The World's Illusion, Volume 2: Ruth" by Jakob Wassermann is a book that picks up the story of characters wrestling with who they are, what society expects of them, and tough moral choices. The story centers on Christian Wahnschaffe, who has cut ties with his wealthy family and gotten involved with a woman named Karen Engelschall, whose reputation is questionable. The story starts with Wolfgang Wahnschaffe coming home, worried about his brother Christian's bad reputation and rumors about him. Wolfgang deals with quiet family drama and hears scandalous gossip about Christian and a woman looked down upon by society. The early parts set the stage for a deeper exploration of social class and failures of different characters. Albrecht Wahnschaffe, the father, struggles with shame and worry over Christian's choices, and conversations show the family's status, secrets, and the pressure they are under. Overall, the book weaves an involved story around themes of redemption and personal change.