Philoctète

Name: Philoctète
Author: André Gide

By André Gide

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About This Book

Two Greek leaders arrive on a remote, frozen shore to secure the legendary bow and arrows kept by an exiled, suffering archer abandoned after a festering wound. The younger companion struggles between loyalty, personal honor, and the older leader's insistence on strategic deception to obtain the weapon believed necessary for victory; conversations probe the moral cost of ruse versus frank sacrifice. Through tense exchanges and ethical argument, the narrative examines duty, pity, the legitimacy of means for a public end, and the tension between personal integrity and collective necessity.

About the Author

André Gide

André Gide was a French author and a prominent figure in 20th-century literature, known for his exploration of moral and philosophical themes. His works often challenge conventional norms and delve into the complexities of human nature. Gide's notable titles include "The Counterfeiters," which examines the nature of authenticity and self-deception, and "L'immoraliste," a semi-autobiographical novel that reflects his views on morality and personal freedom. Throughout his career, he engaged with the ideas of other literary figures, such as Dostoevsky and Oscar Wilde, contributing to the discourse on literature and ethics. Gide's legacy continues to influence writers and thinkers today.