Why the Pope Lived to be so Old
The story revolves around a young woman who lives in the mountains and has a unique relationship with nature. She possesses supernatural powers that allow her to communicate with animals and control the elements. As she grows older, she becomes increasingly isolated from society and begins to question her place in the world. The narrative explores themes of loneliness, spirituality, and the human condition. The Pope's character is not directly related to the story's central plot but serves as a symbol of spiritual authority and guidance for the protagonist.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1918 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 5,019 words
First lines
It happened at Rome in the early nineties. Leo XIII was just then at the height of his fame and greatness. All true Catholics rejoiced at his successes and triumphs, which in truth were sublime. And, even for those who could not grasp the great political events, it was plain that the power of the Church was again coming to the front. Anyone at all could see that new cloisters were going up everywhere and that throngs of pilgrims were beginning to pour into Italy, as in olden times. In many, many places one saw the old, dilapidated churches in process of restoration, damaged mosaics being put in order, and the treasure-vaults of the churches being filled with golden relic-boxes and jewelled exhibits.
What this Textopian page supports
Why the Pope Lived to be so Old is listed on Textopian as a novel by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1918 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 5,019 words
- Structure: 1 section, 78 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Why the Pope Lived to be so Old by Selma Lagerlof
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Similar titles
- The Peace Of God by Selma Lagerlof
- The Fiddler by Herman Melville
- The Wise Mens Well by Selma Lagerlof
- God Sees The Truth But Does Not Tell At Once by Leo Tolstoy
- Easter Eve by Anton Chekhov
- Dusk by Hector Hugh Munro
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores deep themes of sacrifice, faith, and the human condition, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Religious Fiction — The story centers around the Pope and the Catholic Church, incorporating themes of spirituality and devotion.
- Philosophical Fiction — It raises questions about life, death, and the value of existence, prompting philosophical reflection.
- Historical Fiction — Set in a specific historical context involving the Pope and the Church, blending factual history with fictional elements.
Tags
Fiction · Novel · Swedish Literature · 20th Century Literature · Realism · Social Commentary · Satire · Humor · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Psychological Insight · Character Study