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The Exiles   By: (1799-1850)

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The Exiles by Honoré de Balzac is a masterpiece that skillfully captures the nuances of human emotions and societal complexities. Set in the early 19th century, this thought-provoking novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of various characters who are all bound by the shared experience of being exiled from their homeland.

Balzac's writing style is elegant yet immersive, effortlessly transporting readers to the bustling streets of Paris and the idyllic countryside of France. Through his vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail, he paints a vivid picture of the era, seamlessly blending historical accuracy with his own imaginative storytelling.

One of the standout aspects of The Exiles is its rich and diverse cast of characters. Each individual is meticulously crafted, their hopes, fears, and desires laid bare on the pages. From the proud and ambitious Chéron family, driven by their desires for social ascent, to the enigmatic Marquise d'Espard, Balzac explores the intricate webs of relationships and power dynamics that exist within society.

Furthermore, Balzac delves deep into the themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of happiness. The characters in The Exiles are constantly torn between their desires and their duties, their hearts and their heads. As they navigate the treacherous waters of society, readers are treated to a profound exploration of the human condition, highlighting the triumphs and tragedies that come with the choices we make.

Throughout the novel, Balzac's masterful storytelling keeps readers on edge, eagerly turning each page in anticipation of what lies ahead. The plot moves at a brisk pace, filled with unexpected twists and turns that weave a complex tapestry of human emotions. The engaging narrative is further enhanced by Balzac's introspective and philosophical musings, providing readers with a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of both the characters and the society they inhabit.

While The Exiles may not be one of Balzac's most widely known works, it deserves a place among his finest. Balzac's keen observations of human behavior, paired with his evocative prose, makes this novel a compelling read that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. Overall, The Exiles is a captivating and profound exploration of the human experience, cementing Balzac's status as a literary giant.

First Page:

The Exiles

By Honore de Balzac

Translated by Clara Bell and James Waring

ALMAE SORORI

In the year 1308 few houses were yet standing on the Island formed by the alluvium and sand deposited by the Seine above the Cite, behind the Church of Notre Dame. The first man who was so bold as to build on this strand, then liable to frequent floods, was a constable of the watch of the City of Paris, who had been able to do some service to their Reverences the Chapter of the Cathedral; and in return the Bishop leased him twenty five perches of land, with exemptions from all feudal dues or taxes on the buildings he might erect.

Seven years before the beginning of this narrative, Joseph Tirechair, one of the sternest of Paris constables, as his name (Tear Flesh) would indicate, had, thanks to his share of the fines collected by him for delinquencies committed within the precincts of the Cite, had been able to build a house on the bank of the Seine just at the end of the Rue du Port Saint Landry. To protect the merchandise landed on the strand, the municipality had constructed a sort of break water of masonry, which may still be seen on some old plans of Paris, and which preserved the piles of the landing place by meeting the rush of water and ice at the upper end of the Island. The constable had taken advantage of this for the foundation of his house, so that there were several steps up to his door... Continue reading book >>




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