Petty Troubles of Married Life By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)
Petty Troubles of Married Life, written by Honoré de Balzac, is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of marriage in 19th century France. Set in Paris, the novel delves into the lives of Monsieur and Madame Guillaume, a couple whose seemingly perfect marriage is gradually unraveling due to an array of petty disagreements and misunderstandings. Balzac's masterful storytelling vividly captures the essence of married life during this era, painting a realistic and at times humorous portrait of the Guillaumes' daily struggles. From trivial arguments over household expenses to petty jealousies and suspicions, the author delicately weaves these intricate facets of married life into a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout. One of the standout features of this novel is Balzac's ability to offer deep insights into the human psyche and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. Through his vivid and realistic characterizations, he exposes the underlying vulnerabilities and flaws of Monsieur and Madame Guillaume. Balzac's astute observations shed light on the universal nature of these small troubles and the profound impact they can have on a marriage. While the book primarily revolves around the Guillaumes' relationship, Balzac's narrative also delves into the wider societal context of 19th-century France. He skillfully explores the influence of social norms and expectations on marriage, providing readers with a rich and insightful commentary on the intricacies of class, wealth, and gender dynamics during this time period. Balzac's writing style is both elegant and evocative, seamlessly transporting readers to the bustling streets of Paris and immersing them in the Guillaumes' tumultuous world. His attention to detail and the meticulous descriptions of characters and settings make the story come alive, enabling readers to fully immerse themselves in the narrative. While Petty Troubles of Married Life may seem to focus on trivial matters, its underlying message is deeply profound. Balzac highlights how seemingly petty disagreements and misunderstandings can accumulate and ultimately erode the foundation of a relationship. This poignant exploration of the frailties of marriage serves as a timeless reminder for readers to cherish and nurture the bonds they have with their partners. In conclusion, Honoré de Balzac's Petty Troubles of Married Life is a captivating and insightful novel that offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of marriage in 19th-century France. Balzac's keen observations, rich characterizations, and immersive storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of human relationships and the challenges that can arise within the institution of marriage. First Page: PETTY TROUBLES OF MARRIED LIFE By Honore De Balzac PART FIRST PREFACE IN WHICH EVERY ONE WILL FIND HIS OWN IMPRESSIONS OF MARRIAGE. A friend, in speaking to you of a young woman, says: "Good family, well bred, pretty, and three hundred thousand in her own right." You have expressed a desire to meet this charming creature. Usually, chance interviews are premeditated. And you speak with this object, who has now become very timid. YOU. "A delightful evening!" SHE. "Oh! yes, sir." You are allowed to become the suitor of this young person. THE MOTHER IN LAW (to the intended groom). "You can't imagine how susceptible the dear girl is of attachment." Meanwhile there is a delicate pecuniary question to be discussed by the two families. YOUR FATHER (to the mother in law). "My property is valued at five hundred thousand francs, my dear madame!" YOUR FUTURE MOTHER IN LAW. "And our house, my dear sir, is on a corner lot." A contract follows, drawn up by two hideous notaries, a small one, and a big one. Then the two families judge it necessary to convoy you to the civil magistrate's and to the church, before conducting the bride to her chamber. Then what?... Why, then come a crowd of petty unforeseen troubles, like the following: PETTY TROUBLES OF MARRIED LIFE THE UNKINDEST CUT OF ALL... Continue reading book >>

Petty Troubles of Married Life By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)

Petty Troubles of Married Life, written by Honoré de Balzac, is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of marriage in 19th century France. Set in Paris, the novel delves into the lives of Monsieur and Madame Guillaume, a couple whose seemingly perfect marriage is gradually unraveling due to an array of petty disagreements and misunderstandings.

Balzac's masterful storytelling vividly captures the essence of married life during this era, painting a realistic and at times humorous portrait of the Guillaumes' daily struggles. From trivial arguments over household expenses to petty jealousies and suspicions, the author delicately weaves these intricate facets of married life into a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout.

One of the standout features of this novel is Balzac's ability to offer deep insights into the human psyche and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. Through his vivid and realistic characterizations, he exposes the underlying vulnerabilities and flaws of Monsieur and Madame Guillaume. Balzac's astute observations shed light on the universal nature of these small troubles and the profound impact they can have on a marriage.

While the book primarily revolves around the Guillaumes' relationship, Balzac's narrative also delves into the wider societal context of 19th-century France. He skillfully explores the influence of social norms and expectations on marriage, providing readers with a rich and insightful commentary on the intricacies of class, wealth, and gender dynamics during this time period.

Balzac's writing style is both elegant and evocative, seamlessly transporting readers to the bustling streets of Paris and immersing them in the Guillaumes' tumultuous world. His attention to detail and the meticulous descriptions of characters and settings make the story come alive, enabling readers to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

While Petty Troubles of Married Life may seem to focus on trivial matters, its underlying message is deeply profound. Balzac highlights how seemingly petty disagreements and misunderstandings can accumulate and ultimately erode the foundation of a relationship. This poignant exploration of the frailties of marriage serves as a timeless reminder for readers to cherish and nurture the bonds they have with their partners.

In conclusion, Honoré de Balzac's Petty Troubles of Married Life is a captivating and insightful novel that offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of marriage in 19th-century France. Balzac's keen observations, rich characterizations, and immersive storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of human relationships and the challenges that can arise within the institution of marriage.

First Page:

PETTY TROUBLES OF MARRIED LIFE

By Honore De Balzac

PART FIRST

PREFACE

IN WHICH EVERY ONE WILL FIND HIS OWN IMPRESSIONS OF MARRIAGE.

A friend, in speaking to you of a young woman, says: "Good family, well bred, pretty, and three hundred thousand in her own right." You have expressed a desire to meet this charming creature.

Usually, chance interviews are premeditated. And you speak with this object, who has now become very timid.

YOU. "A delightful evening!"

SHE. "Oh! yes, sir."

You are allowed to become the suitor of this young person.

THE MOTHER IN LAW (to the intended groom). "You can't imagine how susceptible the dear girl is of attachment."

Meanwhile there is a delicate pecuniary question to be discussed by the two families.

YOUR FATHER (to the mother in law). "My property is valued at five hundred thousand francs, my dear madame!"

YOUR FUTURE MOTHER IN LAW. "And our house, my dear sir, is on a corner lot."

A contract follows, drawn up by two hideous notaries, a small one, and a big one.

Then the two families judge it necessary to convoy you to the civil magistrate's and to the church, before conducting the bride to her chamber.

Then what?... Why, then come a crowd of petty unforeseen troubles, like the following:

PETTY TROUBLES OF MARRIED LIFE

THE UNKINDEST CUT OF ALL... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – Honoré de Balzac
Wikipedia – Petty Troubles of Married Life

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