Der Schimmel-Reiter (The Rider on the White Horse) by Theodor Storm is a German novel that portrays the supernatural adventures of Johann Baumann, a monk who seeks revenge for the death of his brother.
The story begins when Baumann is imprisoned on false charges and forced to work on his own farm for years. During this time, he encounters a mysterious rider who claims to be Satan himself. The rider offers Baumann the chance to join him in eternal life, but Baumann refuses and returns home.
Years later, Baumann hears rumors of a young girl named Anna who has been killed by a demonic entity. When Baumann sets out to find the murderer, he discovers that the killer is none other than Satan's spirituel associate, Count Rodenholz. Rodenholz murders Baumann's brother Jacob and plots to murder Baumann himself, as well.
Throughout the remainder of the novel, Baumann fights against the forces of Satan and Rodenholz to protect himself and his loved ones. The novel contains numerous moments of suspense and intrigue, and Theodor Storm manages to convey a sense of mystery and religious doubt that was present in the original historical context of these events.
Overall, The Rider on the white horse remains a fascinating and chilling study of the power of superstition, religion, and faith in shaping our destinies. Storm's characterization of Baumann and Rodenholf and their struggles compel the reader to ponder the nature of human existence and the realms of supernatural powers.
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