137: I See Satan Fall Again, or "Lightning Does Strike Twice"

Written in 1931 and published in 1932, 'Brave New World' is a dystopian novel set in a futuristic World State where humans are bred in vitro and predestined into a rigid social hierarchy. The novel explores themes of technological advancement, social conditioning, and the loss of individuality and freedom. The story revolves around characters such as Bernard Marx, an Alpha who questions the society, Mustapha Mond, the World Controller, and John, a 'Savage' from a reservation who introduces elements of emotion and individuality into the highly controlled World State. The novel critiques the optimism of technological progress and its potential to create a society that values stability and happiness over humanity and freedom.

Published in 1866, 'Crime and Punishment' is a psychological novel set in St. Petersburg, Russia. It revolves around Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished and intellectually gifted former student who formulates a theory that some individuals are morally justified in committing crimes for the greater good of society. Raskolnikov puts this theory to the test by murdering an old pawnbroker and her half-sister, leading to a profound exploration of his psychological and emotional struggles with guilt, paranoia, and the consequences of his actions. The novel delves into socio-economic disparities, moral dilemmas, and the psychology of criminals, making it a classic of Russian literature and existential thought.

The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, attributed to Philostratus, recounts the life and purported miracles of Apollonius, a first-century CE philosopher and spiritual teacher. The narrative presents Apollonius as a wonder-worker who intervenes in various situations, often involving the resolution of conflicts or the healing of diseases. One notable episode describes Apollonius's role in resolving an epidemic in Ephesus by directing the community to stone a seemingly blind beggar, who is revealed to be a demon. This episode is used by René Girard to illustrate his theory of mimetic rivalry and scapegoating. The book offers a glimpse into the beliefs and practices of the Greco-Roman world and provides a rich source of material for exploring themes of spirituality, power, and social dynamics.