Moving backward and forward in time, Balzac follows Raphael's fate through a dynamic panorama of contemporary society, illuminating, through the compulsions of a deliciously melodramatic plot, the metaphysical conundrums that thwart and thrill our souls.
Is Balzac worth reading?
Although one might argue that all Balzac's works are worth reading, some are more famous than others and have brought their author most fame. These include: Père Goriot, Eugénie Grandet, Lost Illusions, Splendors and miseries of courtesans.
What did Balzac?
Balzac produced many notable works during the early and mid-1840s. These include the masterpieces Une Ténébreuse Affaire (1841; A Shady Business), La Rabouilleuse (1841–42; The Black Sheep), Ursule Mirouët (1841), and one of his greatest works, Splendeurs et misères des courtisanes (1843–47; A Harlot High and Low).
Was Balzac rich?
In 1849 he suffered a disappointment when he was refused entry into the French Academy. On March the 14th 1850, Balzac, now rich and famous was able to marry Mme Hanska.
Why is Balzac important?
Owing to his keen observation of detail and unfiltered representation of society, Balzac is regarded as one of the founders of realism in European literature. He is renowned for his multi-faceted characters; even his lesser characters are complex, morally ambiguous and fully human.
Is Balzac good?
Balzac was the great novelist of money, social climbing, and power. He depicted an era filled with booms and busts, great wealth and heartbreaking poverty.
What should I read from Balzac?
As for Balzac, I agree that Le Pere Goriot and Eugenie Grandet are good places to start. I'd recommend The Black Sheep for a first Balzac. Pere Goriot is also a good choice, but I see it as only the first in a trilogy (with Lost Illusions and A Harlot High and Low).
Was Balzac a Catholic?
Balzac was a self-proclaimed reactionary, a monarchist who wanted to restore all the hereditary rights of the aristocracy and a Roman Catholic.
Who is an example of a realist?
A person who knows that she needs to make improvements in her life, who can recognize the situation and her problems and who makes plans to deal with them, is an example of a realist.