Madame Hermet by Guy de Maupassant

Name: Madame Hermet
Author: Guy de Maupassant

The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who marries an older man for financial security and social status. She becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships with her husband's friends and acquaintances, leading to a series of tragic events that ultimately destroy her. The story explores themes of love, morality, and the societal pressures placed on women during the late 19th century. Through the protagonist's experiences, the novel critiques the hypocrisy and superficiality of upper-class Parisian society. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Madame Hermet is trapped in a life she did not choose, and her attempts to escape or find happiness are thwarted by the societal expectations placed upon her. The novel ultimately presents a bleak portrayal of the limited options available to women during this period.

By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1880 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Tragedy, Drama · 3,184 words

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First lines

Crazy people attract me. They live in a mysterious land of weird dreams, in that impenetrable cloud of dementia where all that they have witnessed in their previous life, all they have loved, is reproduced for them in an imaginary existence, outside of all laws that govern the things of this life and control human thought.

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Madame Hermet is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1880 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Guy de Maupassant
Date: 1880 CE
Language: English
Genres: Psychological Fiction, Tragedy, Drama, Realism, Horror
Length: 3,184 words
Structure: 1 section, 88 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for Madame Hermet by Guy de Maupassant
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Genres

Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves deeply into the mental state and emotional turmoil of the protagonist, exploring themes of vanity, fear, and madness.
Tragedy — The story is marked by the tragic downfall of the protagonist, culminating in the death of her son and her subsequent descent into madness.
Drama — The plot is driven by intense emotional conflicts and dramatic situations, particularly the protagonist's struggle with her fears and the consequences of her actions.
Realism — The narrative presents a realistic portrayal of human emotions and societal pressures, focusing on the protagonist's obsession with beauty and the impact of her choices.