Droll Stories - Volume 1

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Balzac, Honoré de, 1799-1850

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Droll Stories - Volume 1" by Honoré de Balzac is a collection of short stories written in the early 19th century. The work consists of ten tales, drawing humor and themes from the lives and manners of 16th-century France, particularly spotlighting the social and moral nuances found in provincial life. Balzac, known for his keen observation of society, frequently contrasts the innocent and the corrupt, suggesting a wealth of comedic and provocative scenarios involving various characters in the realm of love, morality, and human folly. The opening of this volume establishes a vibrant and playful tone, beginning with a prologue that hints at the historical atmosphere of the stories to come. Within the first tale, "The Fair Imperia," we are introduced to Philippe de Mala, a young priest, who grapples with temptation in the lavish and indulgent context of the Council of Constance. His comic misadventures and innocent aspirations lead him into awkward encounters with courtesans and their patrons, including the captivating Imperia, whose charm ensnares him. This mix of innocence and lechery, alongside the humorous consequences of bourgeois desire, sets the stage for Balzac's exploration of human interactions within the vibrant backdrop of 16th-century French society. The narrative promises both amusement and a satirical reflection on love, virtue, and vice. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

The fair Imperia

The venial sin

The king's sweetheart

The devil's heir

The merrie jests of King Louis the Eleventh

The high constable's wife

The maid of Thilouse

The brothers-in-arms

The vicar of Azay-le-Rideau

The reproach.

Credits:

Produced by Ian Hodgson, and Dagny

Notes:

Translation of: Les contes drôlatiques See also: Vol 2: #2318, Vol 3: #2551, and the complete work #13260

Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Cent_Contes_drolatiques

Reading ease score: 68.8 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 2004-08-23