Aleph, the Chaldean; or, the Messiah as Seen from Alexandria

"Aleph, the Chaldean; or, the Messiah as Seen from Alexandria" by E. F. Burr is a late 1800s tale that follows Aleph, a young man with a mixed background, and his buddy Cimon as they travel to Alexandria, set during Roman rule and ancient Egyptian ways. Their trip sheds light on the topics of who they are, cultural exchange, and their hunt for the Messiah, all painted against a detailed historical setting. The story starts with Aleph and Cimon on a merchant ship sailing down the Nile, taking in the sights and talking with a local named Seti. When they meet Roman soldiers, Aleph handles the situation with skill and bravery. Arriving in Alexandria, they enter the busy social scene, full of different cultures and complex religious ideas. This sets the stage for exploring faith and identity as they meet different people and ideas on their physical and spiritual journey.