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Tartarin De Tarascon   By: (1840-1897)

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Tartarin De Tarascon, written by Alphonse Daudet, takes readers on an entertaining journey through the fictional world of Tarascon, a small town in southern France. The story revolves around the life and exaggerated adventures of the title character, Tartarin.

The novel introduces us to Tartarin, a larger-than-life character with an endless imagination, who prides himself on his bravery and experiences. However, his grand tales of hunting expeditions in Africa and other wild escapades are revealed to be nothing but fabrications. Nonetheless, these stories have captivated the people of Tarascon, and Tartarin has become somewhat of a local hero.

Daudet cleverly employs irony and satire to portray Tartarin's comical personality and his knack for exaggeration. Through his writing, the author gently mocks the provincial nature of the town and its inhabitants, who are easily swayed by Tartarin's tall tales. While some readers may find themselves laughing at these exaggerated scenes, others might question why the townspeople are so easily fooled.

The novel also explores the dichotomy of Tartarin's character. On one hand, he is a fearless adventurer in his mind, while on the other, he is a timid and apprehensive man in reality. This contrast adds depth to Tartarin's character, making him a more relatable and complex protagonist. Daudet highlights Tartarin's internal struggle, presenting him as a dreamer who longs for heroic exploits but is confined to the limitations of his own imagination.

The setting of Tarascon is vividly portrayed, creating a picturesque backdrop for Tartarin's escapades. Daudet's descriptive style allows readers to immerse themselves in the colorful streets of this provincial town, with its lively characters and quaint charm. The author's attention to detail helps bring Tarascon to life, making it a character in itself.

However, the novel does have its drawbacks. At times, Tartarin's over-the-top antics and repetitive behavior may become tiresome for some readers. Additionally, the pacing can be slow, particularly in the middle of the book, as it meanders through Tartarin's day-to-day life. Despite these minor shortcomings, the charm of the story and its humor outweigh these flaws, leaving readers with an overall enjoyable reading experience.

Tartarin De Tarascon is a delightful satire that will entertain readers with its wit and humor. Alphonse Daudet's keen observations of human nature and his skillful storytelling combine to create a novel that is both light-hearted and thought-provoking. Whether one appreciates the character of Tartarin or simply enjoys the amusing antics of this fictional town, this book offers an amusing escape into the world of Tarascon.

First Page:

TARTARIN DE TARASCON

By A. Daudet.

Translated by Oliver C. Colt.

Introduction.

The tale of Tartarin de Tarascon was written by Alphonse Daudet in 1872, and was one of the many works which he produced. In it he pokes gentle fun at a type of Frenchman who comes from the Midi, the area where he himself was born. Tartarin has characteristics which may remind the English speaking reader of Toad of Toad Hall, a boastful braggart, easily deceived, but good hearted au fond.

The world he inhabits is, of course, very different from ours. There is no radio or television, the motor car is no more than a plaything for the rich. There is only the beginnings of a telephone system. Much sea transport is still by sailing ship and the idea of mass air travel is in the realm of science fiction. France lost the Franco Prussian war at the battle of Sedan in 1870, which accounts for the flood of refugees from Alsasce. She had also, in the 19th century rush to carve up the African continent, seized among other places, Algeria, which she held in subjection by force of arms. So called Big Game Hunters were regarded with some admiration, and indeed it was a much more perilous activity than it is today, when high power repeating rifles with telescopic sights make motor borne "Sportsmen" little more than butchers... Continue reading book >>




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