A Family Affair by Guy De Maupassant

Name: A Family Affair
Author: Guy De Maupassant

The novel revolves around a family's dark secrets and the consequences of their actions. It explores themes of morality, guilt, and redemption through the eyes of a young protagonist who becomes embroiled in his family's web of deceit. The story centers on a wealthy family's patriarch, whose life is marked by infidelity and manipulation. His wife, a woman of great beauty and cunning, has grown tired of her husband's philandering ways and begins to plot against him. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that each member of the family is hiding secrets and lies, which ultimately lead to devastating consequences. The novel builds towards a tragic climax, exposing the dark underbelly of the family's seemingly idyllic existence. Through its exploration of the human condition, the novel raises questions about the nature of morality, the consequences of one's actions, and the destructive power of secrets and lies.

By Guy De Maupassant · First published 1883 · Genre: Realism, Drama, Social Commentary · 12,356 words

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First lines

The Neuilly steam-tram had just passed the Porte Maillot, and was going along the broad avenue that terminates at the Seine. The small engine that was attached to the car whistled, to warn any obstacle to get out of its way, let off steam, panted like a person out of breath from running, and its pistons made a rapid noise, like iron legs running. The oppressive heat of the end of a summer day lay over the whole city, and from the road, although there was not a breath of wind stirring, there arose a white, chalky, opaque, suffocating, and warm dust which stuck to the moist skin, filled the eyes, and got into the lungs. People were standing in the doors of their houses in search of a little air.

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A Family Affair is listed on Textopian as a novel by Guy De Maupassant, dated 1883 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Guy De Maupassant
Date: 1883 CE
Language: English
Genres: Realism, Drama, Social Commentary, Tragedy, Psychological Fiction
Length: 12,356 words
Structure: 1 section, 243 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Realism — The narrative focuses on the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people, depicting their social conditions and emotional states with stark authenticity.
Drama — The story revolves around intense personal and familial conflicts, particularly surrounding death and its aftermath, showcasing the characters' emotional turmoil.
Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms and the human condition, particularly in relation to family dynamics, class struggles, and the indifference of society.
Tragedy — The themes of loss, grief, and the harsh realities of life contribute to a tragic atmosphere, particularly through the protagonist's experiences.