Pierre & Jean by Guy de Maupassant

Name: Pierre & Jean
Author: Guy de Maupassant

The novel revolves around the complex relationships between two brothers, Pierre and Jean, and their struggles with morality, identity, and societal expectations. Pierre, a young man from a wealthy family, becomes infatuated with a woman named Marcelle, who is engaged to be married. He begins an affair with her, but his guilt and sense of responsibility eventually lead him to confess the truth to Jean, his brother. Jean, on the other hand, is portrayed as a more introspective and sensitive character, struggling with his own desires and moral principles. As Pierre's confession unfolds, Jean becomes increasingly conflicted about how to respond, caught between his loyalty to his brother and his own sense of justice. Throughout the novel, Maupassant explores themes of love, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, raising questions about the nature of right and wrong, and the consequences of one's actions.

By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1888 · Genre: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Family Drama · 9 chapters · 54,739 words

First lines

"Tschah! " exclaimed old Roland suddenly, after he had remained motionless for a quarter of an hour, his eyes fixed on the water, while now and again he very slightly lifted his line sunk in the sea.

Mme. Roland, dozing in the stern by the side of Mme. Rosémilly, who had been invited to join the fishing-party, woke up, and turning her head to look at her husband, said:

What this Textopian page supports

Pierre & Jean is listed on Textopian as a novel by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1888 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Guy de Maupassant
Date: 1888 CE
Language: English
Genres: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Family Drama, Social Commentary
Length: 54,739 words
Structure: 9 chapters, 1,364 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Realism — The novel focuses on everyday life and the psychological depth of its characters, typical of the Realist movement.
Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves deeply into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters, particularly concerning jealousy and familial relationships.
Family Drama — The central plot revolves around the dynamics and tensions within a family, highlighting themes of inheritance and sibling rivalry.
Social Commentary — The story critiques social norms and class distinctions of the time, reflecting on the impact of wealth and legitimacy.