In mythology, Narcissus is a beautiful youth who shuns the nymphs but falls in love with his own reflection in a pond, which he thinks is the face of a water nymph. In this novel, Goldmund is the beautiful boy beloved by women. Why do you think the author did not name him "Narcissus," giving the name instead to the monk?

When Goldmund realizes, with the help of Narcissus, that he has forgotten his mother, he falls into a feint. Why do you think he forgot her,? Why is it so traumatic to remember her?

After Goldmund has the first sexual experience of his life, with Lise, she tells him she has a husband to whom she must return. Goldmund's frame of mind is rather complicated at this point. Describe it, and explain why he is conflicted.

Master Niklaus offers Goldmund a workshop, the...