The Chosen One by Thomas Mann. Short summary

5 seconds

Duke Grimald gave birth to twins: son Viligis and daughter Sybilla. As the offspring grew up, they fell in love with each other. Sibylla had a son who later became known as «Saint Sinner.»

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There once lived a Duke of Flanders and Artois who bore the name Grimald. He was married to a most noble lady, Badugenne. They lived richly and happily. The only thing the couple lacked was children. They repeatedly prayed to the Almighty for heirs, but the Duke and Duchess were already forty years old, and their hopes had still not been realized.

After a time, however, the Duchess nevertheless gave birth to twins. As a result of the difficult birth she soon died. The duke now had two heirs, a son Viligis and a daughter Sibylla. The children were always holding hands and were inseparable. Seventeen years after the death of his wife, Grimald himself died.

The brother and sister felt that others were not worthy of them. They fell in love with each other and began to meet in secret. After a time, Sibylla became pregnant and gave birth to a son, Gregorius. He was destined to experience many unusual adventures, to do many good and bad deeds and to become famous under the name «Holy Sinner.»