
audiobook
A. JEAN-NICOLAS-MARIE - DEGUERLE,
PRÉFACE.
LIVRE PREMIER. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE SECOND - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE TROISIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE QUATRIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE CINQUIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE SIXIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE SEPTIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
LIVRE HUITIÈME. - SOMMAIRE.
Set against a lush tapestry of mythic Greece, the tale follows the passionate bond between Théagène, a noble youth, and Chariclée, a radiant maiden of uncommon spirit. Their love blossoms amid sun‑kissed hills, fragrant groves, and the ever‑watchful presence of the Muses, while the surrounding world teems with playful satyrs, vigilant deities, and the restless currents of a river that can both nurture and rage.
Through vivid scenes of festivals, secret meetings by silver springs, and whispered counsel from divine patrons, the narrative explores the tension between desire and duty. Théagène’s steadfast devotion is tested by jealous rivals, familial expectations, and the capricious whims of the gods, prompting him to question the true nature of honor and justice.
The novel’s lyrical style invites listeners to linger on its poetic descriptions, while its moral undercurrents ask whether love can triumph over the inevitable obstacles set by fate and society. The first act promises a journey of heartfelt yearning, gentle humor, and the promise of trials that will shape the lovers’ destinies.
Language
fr
Duration
~11 hours (634K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Madeleine Fournier and Marc D'Hooghe (Images generously made available by Gallica, Bibliothèque nationale de France.)
Release date
May 20, 2015
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

Best known for the adventurous Greek romance Aethiopica, this writer from ancient Emesa left behind one of the most vivid and enduring novels to survive from classical antiquity. Very little is known about his life, which only adds to the mystery around his work.
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