The Unwilling Vestal

Name: The Unwilling Vestal
Author: Edward Lucas White

By Edward Lucas White

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About This Book

The novel portrays a young Roman woman chosen to become a Vestal who resists the office and its mixture of honor and strict restraints, and follows her subsequent exile, inner turmoil, and gradual change through public rituals, family dynamics, and legal dangers. Through her experiences and the reactions of friends and society the narrative examines the privileges, powers, and humiliations tied to sacred office, and sketches ceremonial life, social manners, gladiatorial spectacles, and elite gossip. Structured in four books that move from disappointment and despondency to desperation and eventual triumph, it blends historical detail and character-driven scenes to depict personal conflict amid imperial Roman customs.

About the Author

Edward Lucas White

Edward Lucas White was an American author known for his contributions to speculative fiction and adventure narratives. His notable works include "Andivius Hedulio: Adventures of a Roman Nobleman in the Days of the Empire," which explores themes of identity and culture through the lens of a Roman nobleman. White's storytelling often blends historical elements with imaginative scenarios, as seen in his collection "Lukundoo, and other stories," which showcases his versatility in crafting engaging tales. Additionally, his work "The Unwilling Vestal" reflects his interest in complex characters and moral dilemmas. Through his writings, White has left a mark on early 20th-century literature.