"Master Flea" by E. T. A. Hoffmann is a fantastical narrative that intertwines the mundane with the extraordinary, centering on the life of Peregrine Tyss, a peculiar man living in Frankfort. Peregrine, who is deeply attached to his childhood traditions, celebrates Christmas Eve with the same enthusiasm as when he was a child, despite being in his mid-thirties. His life takes a bizarre turn when he encounters a mysterious and enchanting woman during one of his Christmas Eve visits to a poor bookbinder's family. This woman, who claims to be his "Alina," brings with her a sense of the supernatural and a request that leaves Peregrine bewildered. She implores him to release a "prisoner" he supposedly holds, a request that confounds him as he has no knowledge of such a captive. The narrative then shifts to the story of a flea-tamer in Frankfort, who has trained fleas to perform intricate tricks. This flea-tamer, Anton van Leuwenhock, is revealed to have a connection to the supernatural, as he is believed to be a reincarnation of a historical figure. His life is further complicated by the disappearance of Doertje Elverdink, a woman he had kept under his control. The tale weaves together elements of romance, mystery, and the supernatural, exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the boundaries between reality and illusion.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest
everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We
deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15.
ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.