Narziss und Goldmund

The novel tells the story of Goldmund, a young man who leaves a Catholic monastery school to search for the meaning of life, and Narcissus, a gifted young teacher who represents the ascetic and intellectual life.

Their friendship contrasts the artist with the thinker, exploring themes of self-discovery, the union of polar opposites, and the reconciliation of Apollonian and Dionysian ideals.

Goldmund's journey involves numerous love affairs, artistic pursuits, and a final reunion with Narcissus, now an abbot, reflecting on their different life paths.