Waterloo by Erckmann-Chatrian (1865)

Name: Waterloo
Author: Erckmann-Chatrian

The novel tells the story of a young man who returns to his native village after serving in the Napoleonic Wars. He finds that his community has been ravaged by poverty and despair. The protagonist becomes disillusioned with the French monarchy and begins to question the values of the society he lives in.

By Erckmann-Chatrian · First published 1865 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Romance · 22 chapters · 90,140 words

First lines

The joy of the people on the return of Louis XVIII., in 1814, was unbounded. It was in the spring, and the hedges, gardens, and orchards were in full bloom. The people had for years suffered so much misery, and had so many times feared being carried off by the conscription never to return, they were so weary of battles, of the captured cannon, of all the glory and the Te Deums, that they wished for nothing but to live in peace and quiet and to rear their families by honest labor.

Indeed, everybody was content except the old soldiers and the fencing-masters.

What this Textopian page supports

Waterloo is listed on Textopian as a novel by Erckmann-Chatrian, dated 1865 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Erckmann-Chatrian
Date: 1865 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Romance, Social Commentary, Adventure
Length: 90,140 words
Structure: 22 chapters, 1,504 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The narrative is set against the backdrop of the historical events surrounding the return of Louis XVIII and the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, focusing on the lives of ordinary people during this tumultuous period.
Literary Fiction — The book explores deep themes of identity, societal change, and the human condition, employing a reflective and character-driven narrative style.
Romance — The protagonist's longing for Catherine and the obstacles to their marriage form a central emotional thread, highlighting personal relationships amidst broader historical events.
Social Commentary — The text critiques social hierarchies and the impact of political changes on the lives of common people, reflecting on the nature of power and governance.