Der Golem

A novel written in the early 20th century. The story, set in the Jewish ghetto of Prague, explores themes of mysticism, identity, and the supernatural, with a particular focus on the character Athanasius Pernath, who becomes entangled in a world influenced by the legend of the Golem—a creature made from clay and brought to life by a rabbi's mystical powers. The opening of the novel introduces Pernath, who experiences a restless night filled with haunting thoughts and troubling dreams, intertwining memories and imaginations as he struggles with feelings of unease. He finds himself in a dark courtyard and engages with the enigmatic figures present in his life, such as Aaron Wassertrum, a trinket dealer, and the mysterious red-haired Rosina. These characters set the stage for the exploration of Pernath's psyche and the societal dynamics within the ghetto, hinting at deeper mysteries connected to the Golem legend as he reflects on his past and present existence. Throughout this initial section, the tone combines elements of surrealism and psychological introspection, drawing readers into a richly layered narrative.