"A Question" is a novel written by Georg Ebers, translated from German by Mary J. Safford. The story is set in ancient Syracuse and revolves around the house-keeper, Semestre, and her two maids, Chloris and Dorippe. Semestre scolds the two young women for not being diligent enough in their work, particularly in regards to saving resources such as oil and olives. The conversation between the three women highlights the economic and social conditions of ancient Syracuse. The scarcity of resources is apparent, with thieves stealing olives, and watchmen being sent away as rowers. The characters' discussions also reveal the social hierarchy, with Lysander's brother Alciphron being portrayed as a successful merchant, and Semestre having a close relationship with him. Throughout the novel, the characters grapple with moral and ethical questions, such as the cost of accumulating wealth and the responsibility to protect one's resources.
Georg Ebers was a German author, Egyptologist, and scholar born on March 1, 1837, in Berlin, Germany. Ebers studied at the universities of Berlin, Zurich, and Leipzig, where he earned his doctorate in Egyptology. He then worked as an assistant professor at the University of Leipzig before becoming a professor of Egyptology at the University of Berlin in 1870. Ebers' most famous work is "An Egyptian Princess," which tells the story of a romance between an Egyptian princess and a young Greek warrior. The novel was a huge success and was translated into many languages. Ebers' contribution to the field of Egyptology was also significant. He conducted several expeditions to Egypt and made important discoveries, including the Ebers Papyrus, a medical text dating back to the New Kingdom period. Moreover, Georg Ebers was a highly respected scholar and author who made significant contributions to the fields of Egyptology and historical fiction. His work remains an important part of German literature and his legacy continues to inspire readers and scholars alike.
