Droll Stories — Complete by Honoré de Balzac

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About this eBook

Author Balzac, Honoré de, 1799-1850
Title Droll Stories — Complete
Collected from the Abbeys of Touraine
Note Translation of: Les contes drôlatiques
Composed of the following etexts, also available separately: Vol 1: #1925, Vol 2: #2318, & Vol 3: #2551
Note Reading ease score: 66.9 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
Credits Produced by John Bickers, Ian Hodgson, Dagny and Emma Dudding
HTML version produced by David Widger
Summary "Droll Stories — Complete" by Honoré de Balzac is a collection of tales written in the early 19th century, showcasing the author's sharp wit and keen observations of human nature. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century France, the stories feature a variety of colorful characters, including priests, courtesans, and noblemen, as they navigate the complexities of love, lust, and morality. The collection is distinguished for its rich historical context and playful exploration of social mores, making it both an entertaining and enlightening read. At the start of "Droll Stories," readers are introduced to the vibrant world of Touraine through the lens of its inhabitants. The translator's preface sets the tone for the book, praising Balzac's literary artistry and his portrayal of French life and customs. The opening tale follows Philippe de Mala, a young priest attending the Council of Constance, who grapples with his desires amid the excesses of the clergy and their indulgent lifestyles. As the narrative unfolds, themes of temptation, virtue, and the contrasts between desires and societal expectations emerge, inviting readers to explore the humorous and scandalous aspects of the time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PQ: Language and Literatures: Romance literatures: French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
Subject Humorous stories
Subject French literature -- 19th century
Subject France -- Social life and customs -- Fiction
Subject Short stories, French -- Translations into English
Category Text
EBook-No. 13260
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Oct 8, 2023
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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