Serapis — Volume 02

"Serapis — Volume 02" by Georg Ebers is a historical novel set in ancient Alexandria during a time of religious and cultural transformation. The story follows characters as they navigate personal desires and familial obligations amidst the rising influence of Christianity. Dada, a spirited young girl, embodies the yearning for freedom, conflicting with the constraints of her environment as she expresses defiance towards her caretaker while anticipating a city outing. Karnis's agreement to take her introduces a tour of Alexandria’s lively streets, contrasting his reflections on the city's pagan history and its emerging Christian identity. The introduction of characters such as Marcus, drawn to Dada, and Demetrius, symbolizing old beliefs versus new faiths, amplifies the theme of personal connections amid societal changes.