Salammbô.

"Salammbô" is a phenomenal historical novel by the outstanding French writer Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880). This work is about the ancient city of Carthage, its conflicts, and the everyday realities of life. The action of the novel unfolds during the mercenary revolt in the 3rd century BC, when disgruntled mercenaries, angered by the delay in their pay, decide to seize the city. The reader gradually sees the intricate intertwining of political forces with the difficult social processes taking place, and a whole cultural era unfolds with its vivid colors and emotions, customs, and traditions. At the very heart of his work, the author lays down the story of the passion of the daughter of Carthaginian general Hamilcar, Salammbô, and the Libyan leader of the rebel forces, Matho. Their feelings are forbidden, and their love is impossible, leading to irrevocable events in the lives of the Carthaginians. The novel "Salammbô" awakens the very imagination of the reader, and the beauty of Salammbô, as described by Flaubert, will be represented by artists around the world for many years to come.