Queen Hortense by Guy de Maupassant

Name: Queen Hortense
Author: Guy de Maupassant

The story revolves around a middle-aged woman who has been abandoned by her lover and struggles to come to terms with the rejection. She becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, unable to reconcile her own desires with societal expectations of femininity. As she navigates this emotional turmoil, her relationships with others deteriorate, leading to further isolation.

By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1888 · Genre: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Drama · 2,972 words

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First lines

In Argenteuil she was called Queen Hortense. No one knew why. Perhaps it was because she had a commanding tone of voice; perhaps because she was tall, bony, imperious; perhaps because she governed a kingdom of servants, chickens, dogs, cats, canaries, parrots, all so dear to an old maid's heart. But she did not spoil these familiar friends; she had for them none of those endearing names, none of the foolish tenderness which women seem to lavish on the soft fur of a purring cat. She governed these beasts with authority; she reigned.

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Queen Hortense is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1888 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Guy de Maupassant
Date: 1888 CE
Language: English
Genres: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary, Tragedy
Length: 2,972 words
Structure: 1 section, 106 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Realism — The narrative focuses on the detailed depiction of everyday life and the character's mundane existence, typical of realist literature.
Psychological Fiction — The story delves into the inner life and thoughts of the protagonist, exploring her mental state and emotional experiences.
Drama — The plot centers around the dramatic events of the protagonist's life and her interactions with family and society.
Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and the protagonist's role within her community, reflecting on themes of isolation and independence.