Salammbo Of Gustave Flaubert (1885)

Set in ancient Carthage during the third century BC, the narrative centers on the enigmatic priestess Salammbo, caught in a tumultuous conflict between her city and its mercenaries. Rich in historical detail, the novel vividly portrays Carthaginian customs, rituals, and the brutality of warfare. Salammbo's character embodies both sensuality and spirituality, navigating themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice. Flaubert's stylized prose enhances the emotional intensity, making this work a significant exploration of power, religion, and desire.