A Deer Park in the Provinces
The story revolves around a young woman who returns to her family's estate after being away for several years. She brings with her a new husband and a sense of modernity that clashes with the traditional values of her family. As she settles into her new life, she struggles to reconcile her own desires with the expectations placed upon her by her family and society. Her relationships with her family members are strained, particularly with her mother who is resistant to change. The young woman's husband is portrayed as a symbol of modernity and progress, but his presence also serves to highlight the societal constraints that women face during this time period. Throughout the story, themes of identity, class, and social status are explored. The narrative ultimately builds towards a tragic conclusion that underscores the limitations placed on women in 19th-century society.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1885 · Genre: Satire, Social Commentary, Romance · 1,380 words
First lines
It is not very long ago that an Hungarian Prince, who was in an Austrian cavalry regiment, was quartered in a wealthy Austrian garrison town. The ladies of the local aristocracy naturally did everything they could to allure the new comer, who was young, good-looking, animated and amusing, into their nets, and at last one of the ripe beauties, who was now resting there on her amorous laurels, after innumerable victories on the hot floors of Viennese society, succeeded in taking him in her toils, but only for a short time, for she had very nearly reached that limit in age where, on the man's side, love ceases and esteem begins. But she had more sense than most women, and she recognized the fact in good time, and as she did not wish to give up the principal character which she played in society there so easily, she reflected as to what means she could employ to bind him to her in another manner.
What this Textopian page supports
A Deer Park in the Provinces is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1885 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1885 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Social Commentary, Romance, Historical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 1,380 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Satire — The narrative critiques social class distinctions and the absurdities of aristocratic society through irony and humor.
- Social Commentary — The story explores themes of class, social norms, and the dynamics of power and influence within aristocratic circles.
- Romance — The plot involves romantic entanglements and the pursuit of love across social boundaries.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and references to historical figures and events provide a backdrop that reflects the societal norms of the time.
Tags
French Literature · Realism · Short Story Collection · 19th Century Fiction · Social Commentary · Satire · Critique of Bourgeoisie · Provincial Life · Deer Park Setting · Nature Imagery · Human Nature · Psychological Insight