Alda: L'esclave Bretonne

A historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative revolves around Alda, a young Breton princess who finds herself taken captive by the Romans after a devastating battle against their forces. As she endures the trials and tribulations of slavery, the story delves into themes of identity, oppression, and the search for freedom, particularly as Alda grapples with the loss of her father and her noble status, while being subjected to the whims of her Roman captors. The opening of the novel introduces Alda amid the horrific aftermath of her capture. She watches as her father, Aldogern, is paraded through the streets of Rome, and soon after, she is seized by a Roman patrician, Marcus Lélius, and placed under the control of his daughter, Lélia. Alda’s proud and fiery spirit is immediately pitted against her new circumstances, showcasing her unwillingness to submit to Roman authority. Despite her initial resistance, she finds an unexpected ally in Susanne, a compassionate Jewish convert who becomes a source of comfort and friendship amidst the cruelty of their shared fate. The tone is one of deep emotional struggle as Alda confronts her identity and fate while grappling with her cultural beliefs against the realities of her situation.