The Pelagius Book

by Paul Morgan

This new edition of Paul Morgan’s acclaimed novel is as relevant to today’s troubled world as to the Roman Empire where it takes place.

‘Storytelling of simplicity and clarity, with a complex psychological and philosophical undertow.’ Peter Goldsworthy

‘Very stylish and fluent writing.’ David Malouf

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Based on a real-life figure – the philosopher Pelagius – The Pelagius Book is set in the fifth century as the Roman Empire begins to collapse.

The era was like our own, marked by religious zealotry, barbarity, and a horror of foreigners invading from other parts of the world. One man, the British-born Pelagius, dares to challenge the prevailing fears and anxiety with a humanist message of reason and hope.

This message soon develops into a movement which sweeps across the Empire. Although Pelagius’ secretary, Celestius, implores him to write down his beliefs, he refuses. When Rome falls at last, Pelagius is betrayed and hunted as a heretic. Only Celestius is left to tell the tale. In the process he discovers the most valuable lesson of all . . .

This exquisitely-written story, a parable for modern times, ends on a note of hope that is as relevant in the twenty-first century as it was in the fifth.

'Could easily invite comparison with … David Malouf's An Imaginary Life: it is a story of epic proportions told by a literary minimalist.' Simon Caterson, The Australian

ISBN 978-1-7638516-8-9 (paperback) and 978-1-7638516-9-6 (ebook).

The Pelagius Book will be launched at Readings, State Library, on 13 August 2026, and is available globally: rrp $29.99 (Australia), US$20 (USA), £20 (UK) and €20 (Europe).

About the author

Paul Morgan is a novelist and writer living in Melbourne. He is the author of two other highly-praised novels, Turner’s Paintbox and The Winter Palace, as well as The Pelagius Book.