The Emperor — Volume 04

"The Emperor — Volume 04" by Georg Ebers is a historical novel that continues to explore the complex world of the Roman Empire through interconnected characters. The story focuses on Emperor Hadrian and his relationship with Antinous, while also introducing Mastor, a slave who begins to question his life after meeting Christians. Additionally, the story follows the lives of Selene and her sister, workers at a papyrus factory, chronicling their struggles with poverty and the challenges they encounter when Selene gets hurt, and highlights their bonds of friendship as they support each other. Through these characters, the novel examines themes of duty, love, resilience, social class, and the human experience within the grand backdrop of the Roman Empire.