A review by david_rhee
The Holy Sinner, by Thomas Mann
3.0
Thomas Mann's Holy Sinner is the ecclesiastical version of Twain's Prince and the Pauper. The fable is loosely historical fiction based on the times of the early popes. The pope in this story could be either based on Evaristis or Alexander I because of his contact with the emperor Trajan. His use of holy water to bless houses of worship points more to Alexander I since he is recorded as the one who introduced this practice.
Mann tells the story through the monk, Clemens. I like what Mann does...the tale has a casual feel like a yarn spun in a tavern but it also provokes profound thoughts on hereditary sin and redemption. It is also distinguished by shocking turns, namely the double dose of incest. The narrative is enjoyable, is in consistent motion, never stalls, and blends humor and tragedy well enough to hold the reader's interest.
Mann tells the story through the monk, Clemens. I like what Mann does...the tale has a casual feel like a yarn spun in a tavern but it also provokes profound thoughts on hereditary sin and redemption. It is also distinguished by shocking turns, namely the double dose of incest. The narrative is enjoyable, is in consistent motion, never stalls, and blends humor and tragedy well enough to hold the reader's interest.