Serapis — Volume 04

"Serapis — Volume 04" by Georg Ebers is a historical novel set in Alexandria during a time of religious conflict, where followers of Serapis face threats from Christian authorities. The story centers on Dada, who experiences a shift from a carefree day at Medius's house, filled with children and simple disagreements, to facing worries about riots and the arrival of Cynegius's forces, who plan to overthrow Serapis. Medius expresses his deep concern about the feared destruction, while Dada feels disconnected from his family and desires to return to her own loved ones as the danger grows. The initial events quickly establish the book's major themes, which include approaching disaster, religious fighting, and the individual challenges faced by characters involved in the conflict.