Repertory of the Comedie Humaine   By: Anatole Cerfberr (1835-1896)

Anatole Cerfberr's "Repertory of the Comedie Humaine" is an impressive and comprehensive reference guide to one of literature's most celebrated and complex literary creations: Honoré de Balzac's monumental series of interconnected novels, "La Comedie Humaine." This book aims to elucidate the intricate world that Balzac meticulously crafted, offering readers a valuable tool to navigate through the vast array of characters, settings, and themes that populate these novels.

One of the standout qualities of Cerfberr's work is its immense depth and breadth. The comprehensive nature of the "Repertory of the Comedie Humaine" is truly remarkable. Cerfberr's encyclopedic approach ensures that no character or story is left unexplored, providing readers with a wealth of information to enhance their understanding and appreciation of Balzac's magnum opus.

The organization and structure of the book contribute greatly to its usability. Each entry is categorized according to the various character types and professions found in the Comedie Humaine, making it easier for readers to search for specific figures or topics of interest. Moreover, the inclusion of an index and cross-references allows for seamless navigation between different sections, ensuring that readers can easily find the information they seek.

Additionally, Cerfberr's prose is concise, clear, and informative. Despite the vast quantity of details presented, the writing remains highly readable and avoids overwhelming the reader with a surfeit of information. This makes it an excellent resource for both scholars and enthusiasts alike, whether they wish to delve into specific character profiles or simply find a quick reference in their exploration of Balzac's fictional world.

It is worth noting that, while "Repertory of the Comedie Humaine" primarily focuses on the characters and stories within Balzac's vast body of work, it also provides valuable insights into the broader social and historical context of 19th-century France. Cerfberr deftly weaves in references to the political, economic, and cultural climate that influenced Balzac's writing, offering readers a richer understanding of the complex world these novels inhabit.

However, one minor drawback of the book is its lack of critical analysis or interpretation. While it expertly summarizes the key aspects of each character or plotline, it does not delve deeply into the thematic complexities or provide a nuanced analysis of Balzac's writing techniques. Although this is not the main focus of the book, readers might have appreciated a bit more commentary to complement the factual entries.

In conclusion, Anatole Cerfberr's "Repertory of the Comedie Humaine" is an indispensable companion to Balzac's monumental fictional universe. With its comprehensive coverage, organized structure, and concise prose, it serves as an invaluable tool for anyone venturing into the intricacies of the Comedie Humaine. While it may not offer extensive critical analysis, its role as a comprehensive reference guide makes it an essential addition to the library of any Balzac enthusiast or scholar.

First Page:

In brief, the purpose of the Repertory is to give in alphabetical sequence the names of all the characters forming this Balzacian society, together with the salient points in their lives. It is, of course, well known that Balzac made his characters appear again and again, thus creating out of his distinct novels a miniature world. To cite a case in point, Rastignac, who comes as near being the hero of the Comedie as any other single character, makes his first appearance in Father Goriot , as a student of law; then appearing and disappearing fitfully in a score of principal novels, he is finally made a minister and peer of France. Without the aid of the Repertory it would be difficult for any save a reader of the entire Comedie to trace out his career... Continue reading book >>