In the Beginning

'In the Beginning' is a sophisticated and satirical exploration of the origins of human society, blending mythology with a sharp critique of moral evolution. Set in a mythical prehistory where gods and demi-gods still walk the earth, the story follows the adventures of Linus as he interacts with divine beings and witnesses the gradual loss of primal innocence. Norman Douglas crafts a world where the playful chaos of paganism eventually gives way to the rigid constraints of organized religion and civilization.Through its cast of celestial and earthly characters, the novel examines themes of pleasure, authority, and the inherent contradictions of the human condition. Douglas’s prose is characterized by its elegance and wit, making this work a standout in early 20th-century literary fantasy. 'In the Beginning' serves as a provocative allegory, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of freedom and the artificial structures that define modern life. This work remains a significant example of Douglas’s ability to fuse classical scholarship with imaginative storytelling, offering a unique perspective on the timeless dance between the divine and the mortal.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.