The Tour · Chapter
XXIII explained
As the barge glides up the Nile at night, Thrasyllus laments the decay of Egyptian wisdom, while Lucius reveals that he has learned from the oracles that Carus stole Ilia from him.
What happens
As the barge glides up the Nile at night, Thrasyllus laments the decay of Egyptian wisdom, while Lucius reveals that he has learned from the oracles that Carus stole Ilia from him. Lucius declares that he has overcome his grief through the proud word 'Be a god unto yourself,' finding strength and a tranquil acceptance of fate.
Themes in this chapter
Grief and Healing
Lucius claims to have overcome his grief over Ilia's loss through the proud word 'Be a god unto yourself,' though Thrasyllus questions whether true healing is possible.
Deception and Survival
The revelation that Carus stole Ilia from Lucius underscores the theme of betrayal and the need for inner strength to survive such deception.
Characters to notice
- Publius Lucius Sabinus
Reveals his knowledge of Carus's theft of Ilia and his embrace of the maxim 'Be a god unto yourself' to overcome grief.
- Thrasyllus
Melancholy over the decline of Egypt and the loss of Hermetic wisdom; reacts with shock to Lucius's revelation.
- Caleb
Displays a lion skin and tells tales of desert ghosts and visions to the people on the thalamegus.
- Cora
Her crystal-clear voice is heard singing with harps in the night.
Key passages
“Egypt is Egypt no longer. Alexandria is a commercial town; Memphis is a decaying greatness; and the priests are venal and no longer know the Hermetic wisdom.”
Thrasyllus laments that Egypt has lost its ancient spiritual essence, with Alexandria reduced to trade, Memphis in decline, and priests corrupted by money, having forgotten the sacred Hermetic teachings.
Expresses Thrasyllus's disillusionment with the state of Egyptian wisdom and religion.
“The word gave me strength and pride. ... I suffer no longer. My grief has departed from me. The world and life are beautiful.”
Lucius declares that the maxim 'Be a god unto yourself' has freed him from sorrow, allowing him to see beauty in the world and feel self-sufficient.
Highlights Lucius's claimed transformation and his philosophical stance of self-deification.