'Wandering Jew, Part 1' Summary

'The Wandering Jew' follows the Rennepont family, Huguenots who were victims of Jesuit persecution under Louis XIV. The family is dispersed across the globe, unaware of their connection to a vast fortune entrusted to a Jewish banker 150 years prior. The story kicks off as they are mysteriously summoned to Paris, only to face a web of obstacles orchestrated by the Jesuits, who seek to claim the fortune for themselves. The Wandering Jew, along with his sister Hérodiade, is fated to wander the Earth, shielding the Renneponts from harm until they are reunited. This sprawling tale delves into the historical and religious conflicts of 17th-century France, featuring intricate plots, hidden motives, and a cast of characters from all walks of life. The narrative, however, centers primarily on the Renneponts, their struggles, and their desperate attempts to reclaim their rightful inheritance amidst the machinations of the Jesuits. The novel's intense anti-Catholic sentiment is evident throughout, adding a layer of complexity and controversy to the story.