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The House of the Combrays   By: (1855-1935)

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The House of the Combrays by G. Lenotre is a captivating historical work that delves into the lives of an aristocratic family during the French Revolution. Filled with intrigue, tragedy, and resilience, this book provides readers with a vivid portrayal of the tumultuous events that unfolded during this turbulent era.

The author, G. Lenotre, demonstrates great skill in blending historical facts with storytelling, immersing readers into the lives of the Combray family. Through his meticulous research, Lenotre brings to life the opulence of the nobility, contrasted sharply with the simmering discontent of the lower classes. This stark contrast creates a palpable tension, mirroring the political atmosphere in France at the time.

The characters in The House of the Combrays are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the diverse reactions to the revolution that swept across the nation. From the proud and defiant Marquis de Combray to the sympathetic and revolutionary-minded Gabrielle, readers are presented with a range of perspectives that adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Lenotre masterfully weaves their individual stories together, intertwining their fates with the grand sweep of history.

One of the strengths of this work lies in its ability to transport readers to the heart of the French Revolution. Lenotre's vivid descriptions allow readers to visualize the grandeur of the Combray estate and the fervor of the revolutionaries storming the Bastille. The imagery is so well-crafted that one can easily imagine themselves walking through the opulent halls of the house or witnessing the chaos of the July Revolution firsthand.

Moreover, The House of the Combrays offers a nuanced exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by the aristocracy during this period of upheaval. Lenotre skillfully examines the internal struggles of characters torn between their privileged positions and a growing sense of responsibility toward the common people. This moral complexity adds depth to the narrative, leaving readers questioning their own values and assumptions.

While The House of the Combrays paints a detailed picture of the nobility's downfall, it also showcases the resilience and determination that can emerge from the ashes of chaos. Lenotre highlights the extraordinary courage and adaptability displayed by certain members of the Combray family, emphasizing the triumph of the human spirit.

In conclusion, The House of the Combrays is an enthralling historical account that brings the French Revolution to life. G. Lenotre's talent for storytelling, coupled with his meticulous research, creates a narrative that is both informative and memorable. Through well-developed characters and evocative descriptions, the book offers readers a deeper understanding of the era and the individuals who lived through it.

First Page:

Transcribers note: A number of spelling errors and inconsistencies of names have been corrected.

THE HOUSE OF THE COMBRAYS

by

G. LE NOTRE

Translated from the French by Mrs. Joseph B. Gilder

New York Dodd, Mead & Company 1902 Copyright, 1902, by Dodd, Mead & Company First Edition Published October, 1902

Contents

PREFACE I. THE TREACHERY OF JEAN PIERRE QUERELLE II. THE CAPTURE OF GEORGES CADOUDAL III. THE COMBRAYS IV. THE ADVENTURES OF D'ACHÉ V. THE AFFAIR OF QUESNAY VI. THE YELLOW HORSE VII. MADAME ACQUET VIII. PAYING THE PENALTY IX. THE FATE OF D'ACHÉ X. THE CHOUANS SET FREE

PREFACE

AN OLD TOWER

One evening in the winter of 1868 or 1869, my father in law, Moisson, with whom I was chatting after dinner, took up a book that was lying on the table, open at the page where I had stopped reading, and said:

"Ah! you are reading Mme. de la Chanterie?"

"Yes," I replied. "A fine book; do you know it?"

"Of course! I even know the heroine."

"Mme. de la Chanterie!"

" By her real name Mme. de Combray. I lived three months in her house."

"Rue Chanoinesse?"

"No, not in the Rue Chanoinesse, where she did not live, any more than she was the saintly woman of Balzac's novel; but at her Château of Tournebut d'Aubevoye near Gaillon!"

"Gracious, Moisson, tell me about it;" and without further solicitation, Moisson told me the following story:

"My mother was a Brécourt, whose ancestor was a bastard of Gaston d'Orleans, and she was on this account a royalist, and very proud of her nobility... Continue reading book >>




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