Hardened—The Yusenar Collection

Author: Marguerite Yourcenar (France); Translated by Zhao Kefei
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Features: Throughout the novel, fire is the embodiment of Zenon, and there is an intrinsic, natural, and enduring connection between Zenon and fire. Among the many symbols of fire, the fire of wisdom and knowledge early awakened his strong thirst for knowledge and an insatiable curiosity about the material and spiritual worlds. The second metaphorical image of the Prometheus myth is the fire of refinement and rebirth. For the alchemist Zenon, fire is both a means and a form of dominating matter, as well as a tool for ruling the world. At the same time, the transformative power of fire accelerates the changes in matter and the temporal rhythm of nature. The fire of refinement grants humanity the sacred power to disrupt the laws of time. This desire and dream of transcending human conditions and possessing divine power are in harmony with Zenon's rebellious spirit in all areas. However, Hadrian lacks this rebellious spirit; his relationship with his era is harmonious, and he enjoys great spiritual freedom because he is the master of his time. Set against the turbulent and unstable European society of the 16th century, this work, through the prism of time, reflects some fundamental questions that have always faced human destiny.