Selene of Alexandria — Occult Philosophy

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🕯️ Occult Philosophy

Selene of Alexandria

Name: Selene of Alexandria
Price: 14.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9780692356982

✍️ Justice, Faith L

Reader Score

4.5

(1 review)

$14.95

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Set in volatile AD 412 Alexandria, this compelling historical novel follows Selene, a tenacious teenager haunted by personal loss, who yearns to master the art of healing. Defying societal norms, she bravely seeks mentorship from the renowned pagan philosopher Hypatia. As Selene navigates the intellectual rivalries and escalating religious strife between Christians, Jews, and Egyptians, she quickly discovers her pursuit of knowledge places her directly in the crosshairs of powerful enemies. Her tender ambition to alleviate suffering could make her vulnerable to grave accusations, threatening her very survival amidst the city's dark undercurrents.

Justice, Faith L

📚 all books by this author (11) →

🕯️

Occult Philosophy

Praise for this book

“The author has weaved a brilliant tale that brings to life this fascinating era, complete with never-to-be-forgotten characters, unrequited love, and the desire of one woman to overcome adversity. It is a story that picks up momentum with each page until it reaches a very explosive ending. Highly recommended.”

— History and Women

“The characters are well-drawn, the plot propels us forward, and the writing carries us easily throughout the story. Even the antagonist comes across as a fully fleshed out person. The depiction of all the historical figures we see through Selene's eyes and the level of authenticity is remarkable.”

— Historical Novel Review

“Readers will be captivated. Fans of Gillian Bradshaw's classic The Beacon at Alexandria may especially enjoy Selene and find a promising new historical novelist who shares the same gift for wonderfully researched, vividly evoked, good old-fashioned storytelling.”

— Historical Novel Society

🏛 Raggedy Moon Books 📅 2009 📖 380 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9780692356982

Fun Fact

Faith L. Justice delivers a compelling historical narrative, shining light on an often-overlooked era. While not a deep dive into esoteric practices, it masterfully portrays 5th-century Alexandria's intellectual ferment and brutal religious conflicts through Selene's eyes. Readers seeking nuanced female ambition and the pursuit of knowledge will find this gripping. Those expecting explicit magic might be disappointed, but it stands as a strong, empowering historical fiction entry.

📝 Description: Selene of Alexandria

She yearns to be a healer. When an ambitious bishop accuses her of witchcraft, can she survive his dark plot? Alexandria, AD 412. Selene longs to defy tradition. Haunted by memories of her mother and infant brother's deaths from a fever, the tenacious teen dreams of becoming a skilled physician. So she dons a daring disguise to seek out the patronage of the influential pagan philosopher, Hypatia. Elated when her risky gambit pays off, Selene's eager pursuit of wisdom is made rocky by jealous male rivals and rioting Christians, Jews, and Egyptians. And as the unrest in the streets rises to festering new heights, the once-naïve student quickly realizes she's being targeted by her mentor's enemies. Will her tenderhearted efforts to save others leave her defenseless against their deadly accusations? In this gritty and vivid novel, award-winning author Faith L. Justice spins an insightful tale anchored by the influential life of one of history's first female philosopher-mathematicians. After gazing at the often-brutal culture of her time through the lens of an ordinary family's choices, you'll emerge with a newfound understanding of this era of vast religious, social, and political change. Selene of Alexandria is a meticulously researched work of historical fiction. If you like fast-paced action, well-crafted dialogue, and complex themes, then you'll adore Faith L. Justice's illuminating view into antiquity.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

While the premise offers rich atmospheric depth regarding 5th-century Alexandria's religious tensions, this book may disappoint readers seeking fast-paced action or clear-cut moral victories. It is not suited for those who prefer modern fantasy tropes or lack patience for dense philosophical discourse embedded in historical narrative. The focus on Selene’s internal struggle and the slow-burn political intrigue might feel sluggish to audiences expecting immediate gratification or straightforward heroism. Readers looking for definitive answers regarding Hypatia’s fate may also find the ambiguity frustrating, as the narrative prioritizes personal survival over grand historical resolution.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers who crave immersive historical narratives where intellectual pursuit clashes with dogmatic fervor will find this book deeply satisfying. Those fascinated by the life of Hypatia or the complex social fabric of late antiquity will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of a young woman defying societal norms to pursue healing and knowledge. The story offers a poignant look at how personal ambition intersects with political turmoil, providing emotional resonance through Selene’s tender yet dangerous journey. It is ideal for those who enjoy character-driven plots set against volatile backdrops, offering both educational insight into ancient philosophical rivalries and a compelling human drama about survival amidst religious strife.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.5/5

★★★★★

If you're drawn to stories of courageous women defying historical constraints, enjoy rich historical settings brimming with intellectual and religious conflict, or seek a narrative illuminating early scientific inquiry amidst superstition, this journey into ancient Alexandria awaits.

Reader rating

4.5

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

While the premise offers rich atmospheric depth regarding 5th-century Alexandria's religious tensions, this book may disappoint readers seeking fast-paced action or clear-cut moral victories. It is not suited for those who prefer modern fantasy tropes or lack patience for dense philosophical discourse embedded in historical narrative. The focus on Selene’s internal struggle and the slow-burn political intrigue might feel sluggish to audiences expecting immediate gratification or straightforward heroism. Readers looking for definitive answers regarding Hypatia’s fate may also find the ambiguity frustrating, as the narrative prioritizes personal survival over grand historical resolution.

❓ Frequently asked questions

While deeply rooted in the historical period and featuring the real figure of Hypatia, Selene's personal story and many of the specific events she experiences are fictionalized to create a compelling narrative that illuminates the era.

Though not explicitly occult, the book explores ancient philosophical traditions and the early scientific pursuit of healing, which, in its time, often bordered on esoteric knowledge. It delves into the clash between rational thought and superstitious accusations, relevant to the persecution of "witches" later.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Female Ambition & Resilience

Selene's unwavering resolve to become a physician in a male-dominated era forms the novel's core. Despite personal tragedy and societal opposition, her journey under Hypatia's wing highlights the courage required for women to pursue intellectual and professional aspirations amidst hostile cultural landscapes.

The Pursuit of Knowledge

The narrative celebrates the quest for wisdom and healing, embodied by Selene's dedication to medicine and Hypatia's philosophical teachings. It explores the inherent dangers of intellectual curiosity when it challenges established power structures and religious dogma in a society on the brink of profound change.

Religious & Social Strife

The tumultuous backdrop of 5th-century Alexandria, with its escalating tensions between Christian, Jewish, and Pagan factions, is vividly portrayed. The book delves into how fervent beliefs and political maneuvering can weaponize accusations, creating a perilous environment for those who stand outside the dominant narrative.

📜 Historical context

Set during a pivotal era, this novel immerses readers in Alexandria's twilight of classical antiquity, marked by declining pagan influence and ascendant Christianity. It captures the intellectual vibrancy of the Library's legacy alongside escalating sectarian violence, placing Selene's struggles within a civilization grappling with profound religious, social, and political transformations.

📚 Glossary

Hypatia
Alexandria
Bishop

📔 Questions to reflect on

Reflect on a time you pursued a passion despite significant societal or personal obstacles. How did you find the courage to persevere?
How do you see the themes of knowledge, power, and religious authority playing out in today's world, mirroring the conflicts in ancient Alexandria?
Consider the role of mentors in Selene's journey. Who are your own intellectual or spiritual mentors, and how have they shaped your path?