Jeremias Gotthelf Knihy

After one of their own people repeatedly fails to live up to a pact with the Devil, a petty and morally bankrupt village community is terrorized by a succession of deadly black spiders.

The narrative unfolds in a rural Swiss village, where the protagonist, a businessman, encounters five young women struggling with alcoholism. Through conversations with a local farmer, he learns about their tragic lives. Jeremias Gotthelf, the pseudonym of Albert Bitzius, captures the harsh realities of 19th-century rural life with striking realism and powerful language. His works adeptly intertwine Christian and humanistic themes, showcasing his unique ability to portray both people and landscapes vividly.

Set in the Bern region after 1834, the story follows Uli, a farmer grappling with the harsh realities of human nature while also finding support in his community. After marrying Vreneli, he takes on the challenging lease of Glungge, where family dynamics and financial struggles create tension. Uli's conflicting views on household management with Vreneli highlight their relationship, as he prioritizes saving money over compassion. Through vivid prose, Jeremias Gotthelf captures the complexities of 19th-century rural life, intertwining Christian and humanistic themes.

A classic tale of rural life and the struggle for survival, set in the Swiss countryside in the early nineteenth century. With its vivid characters and evocative descriptions, this book is an unforgettable portrait of a bygone era.

The preservation of this historically significant work aims to ensure its continued relevance for both present and future readers. By republishing it in a modern format, the book's importance is highlighted, allowing new generations to engage with its timeless themes and insights.

The narrative explores the consequences faced by a morally bankrupt village community after a member breaks a pact with the Devil, leading to a deadly swarm of black spiders. Through a complex structure, the novella offers a sharp critique of the corrupt social dynamics and ethical failures within rural life, serving as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of moral decay.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century rural life, the narrative unfolds with a blend of stark realism and deep emotional resonance. The protagonist, Käthi, grapples with fear and anxiety as a storm rages outside. Her fervent prayers reflect her struggle against overwhelming dread, capturing the tension between faith and human vulnerability. As the tempest subsides, a rainbow symbolizes hope and divine grace, illustrating Gotthelf's ability to intertwine Christian themes with the human experience. His vivid depictions bring both characters and landscapes to life.

Exploring the tension between material wealth and spiritual fulfillment, this philosophical treatise delves into how the pursuit of money can lead to moral decay and emptiness. Drawing on diverse religious and philosophical traditions, it emphasizes that true happiness stems from purpose and meaning rather than wealth accumulation. The chapters address themes such as greed, the importance of generosity, and the value of productive work, ultimately posing a profound question about what constitutes a good life.

The book is a reprint of an original work from 1872, offering readers a glimpse into historical perspectives and themes from that era. It captures the essence of its time, showcasing the language, culture, and societal norms prevalent during the 19th century. This edition aims to preserve the authenticity of the original text while making it accessible to contemporary audiences, inviting them to explore the insights and narratives that shaped its period.