Goldmund, a young man, is sent away to a monastery by his father to atone for his mother’s sins. There he meets the novice Narcissus. When Goldmund comes to Narcissus’ defense against an older group of boys it marks the beginning of a profound friendship.
Some years later…Handsome, wise and reserved, Narcissus chooses to continue living his life in prayer and meditation. Goldmund, passionate, sensual and impulsive, chooses a path away from the monastery to become an adventurer, leading him to discover the highs and lows of ecstasy and pain. Until these friends meet again in a highly dramatic moment.