Catherine De Medici By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)
Catherine de' Medici was a woman of great influence and power, known for her role as the queen consort of France during the turbulent 16th century. In this captivating historical biography, Honoré de Balzac brings to life the complex and enigmatic character of this formidable woman, who is often vilified but also hailed as a diplomatic genius. Balzac meticulously researches the life of Catherine de' Medici, delving into the archives and historical accounts to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of her journey. From her early years as an Italian princess to her marriage to the future King of France, Henry II, Balzac captures the essence of Catherine's rise to power. One of the strongest aspects of this book is Balzac's ability to humanize Catherine de' Medici, a figure often depicted as cold, ruthless, and conniving. Balzac explores her motivations and fears, showcasing her vulnerability as she navigates the treacherous waters of court politics. By doing so, he creates a multidimensional and sympathetic character, shedding light on the complexities of her decisions and actions. Balzac's writing style is eloquent and immersive, transporting readers back in time to 16th-century France. He skillfully paints a vivid picture of the opulent court, the intrigues, and the constant power struggles that defined Catherine's reign. Through rich and detailed descriptions, readers can easily visualize the sumptuous palaces, extravagant costumes, and tense political gatherings. In addition to the captivating narrative, Balzac also seamlessly weaves in historical context and analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of the era. He introduces us to key figures of the time, such as Diane de Poitiers and Anne de Montmorency, connecting their lives and actions to Catherine's own trajectory. This contextualization adds depth to the story and enables readers to fully grasp the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that shaped Catherine's rule. While Balzac's meticulous approach gives the biography an air of authenticity, it can at times become overwhelming. The abundance of historical details, while fascinating, may be too dense for readers seeking a more casual exploration of Catherine's life. However, for those who crave a deep dive into this period of history, Balzac's exhaustive research will prove satisfying. Overall, Catherine de Medici by Honoré de Balzac is an engaging and informative biography that presents a nuanced portrayal of a woman who left an indelible mark on French history. Balzac's eloquent prose and comprehensive approach ensure that readers come away with a greater understanding of Catherine's complexities and the tumultuous era in which she lived. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the life of one of France's most intriguing queens, this book is a must-read. First Page: CATHERINE DE' MEDICI By Honore de Balzac Translated by Katherine Prescott Wormeley DEDICATION To Monsieur le Marquis de Pastoret, Member of the Academie des Beaux Arts. When we think of the enormous number of volumes that have been published on the question as to where Hannibal crossed the Alps, without our being able to decide to day whether it was (according to Whittaker and Rivaz) by Lyon, Geneva, the Great Saint Bernard, and the valley of Aosta; or (according to Letronne, Follard, Saint Simon and Fortia d'Urbano) by the Isere, Grenoble, Saint Bonnet, Monte Genevra, Fenestrella, and the Susa passage; or (according to Larauza) by the Mont Cenis and the Susa; or (according to Strabo, Polybius and Lucanus) by the Rhone, Vienne, Yenne, and the Dent du Chat; or (according to some intelligent minds) by Genoa, La Bochetta, and La Scrivia, an opinion which I share and which Napoleon adopted, not to speak of the verjuice with which the Alpine rocks have been bespattered by other learned men, is it surprising, Monsieur le marquis, to see modern history so bemuddled that many important points are still obscure, and the most odious calumnies still rest on names that ought to be respected? And let me remark, in passing, that Hannibal's crossing has been made almost problematical by these very elucidations... Continue reading book >>

Catherine De Medici By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)

Catherine de' Medici was a woman of great influence and power, known for her role as the queen consort of France during the turbulent 16th century. In this captivating historical biography, Honoré de Balzac brings to life the complex and enigmatic character of this formidable woman, who is often vilified but also hailed as a diplomatic genius.

Balzac meticulously researches the life of Catherine de' Medici, delving into the archives and historical accounts to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of her journey. From her early years as an Italian princess to her marriage to the future King of France, Henry II, Balzac captures the essence of Catherine's rise to power.

One of the strongest aspects of this book is Balzac's ability to humanize Catherine de' Medici, a figure often depicted as cold, ruthless, and conniving. Balzac explores her motivations and fears, showcasing her vulnerability as she navigates the treacherous waters of court politics. By doing so, he creates a multidimensional and sympathetic character, shedding light on the complexities of her decisions and actions.

Balzac's writing style is eloquent and immersive, transporting readers back in time to 16th-century France. He skillfully paints a vivid picture of the opulent court, the intrigues, and the constant power struggles that defined Catherine's reign. Through rich and detailed descriptions, readers can easily visualize the sumptuous palaces, extravagant costumes, and tense political gatherings.

In addition to the captivating narrative, Balzac also seamlessly weaves in historical context and analysis, offering a comprehensive understanding of the era. He introduces us to key figures of the time, such as Diane de Poitiers and Anne de Montmorency, connecting their lives and actions to Catherine's own trajectory. This contextualization adds depth to the story and enables readers to fully grasp the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that shaped Catherine's rule.

While Balzac's meticulous approach gives the biography an air of authenticity, it can at times become overwhelming. The abundance of historical details, while fascinating, may be too dense for readers seeking a more casual exploration of Catherine's life. However, for those who crave a deep dive into this period of history, Balzac's exhaustive research will prove satisfying.

Overall, Catherine de Medici by Honoré de Balzac is an engaging and informative biography that presents a nuanced portrayal of a woman who left an indelible mark on French history. Balzac's eloquent prose and comprehensive approach ensure that readers come away with a greater understanding of Catherine's complexities and the tumultuous era in which she lived. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the life of one of France's most intriguing queens, this book is a must-read.

First Page:

CATHERINE DE' MEDICI

By Honore de Balzac

Translated by Katherine Prescott Wormeley

DEDICATION

To Monsieur le Marquis de Pastoret, Member of the Academie des Beaux Arts.

When we think of the enormous number of volumes that have been published on the question as to where Hannibal crossed the Alps, without our being able to decide to day whether it was (according to Whittaker and Rivaz) by Lyon, Geneva, the Great Saint Bernard, and the valley of Aosta; or (according to Letronne, Follard, Saint Simon and Fortia d'Urbano) by the Isere, Grenoble, Saint Bonnet, Monte Genevra, Fenestrella, and the Susa passage; or (according to Larauza) by the Mont Cenis and the Susa; or (according to Strabo, Polybius and Lucanus) by the Rhone, Vienne, Yenne, and the Dent du Chat; or (according to some intelligent minds) by Genoa, La Bochetta, and La Scrivia, an opinion which I share and which Napoleon adopted, not to speak of the verjuice with which the Alpine rocks have been bespattered by other learned men, is it surprising, Monsieur le marquis, to see modern history so bemuddled that many important points are still obscure, and the most odious calumnies still rest on names that ought to be respected?

And let me remark, in passing, that Hannibal's crossing has been made almost problematical by these very elucidations... Continue reading book >>

This book is in genre
Literature

eBook links
Wikipedia – Honoré de Balzac
Wikipedia – Catherine De Medici

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac