
The Patron by Guy de Maupassant
A young woman's life unravels after she becomes embroiled in a complicated affair with an older man who has promised to marry her. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that he has no intention of fulfilling his promise, and she is left to face the consequences of her own desires.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1886 · Genre: Satire, Comedy, Drama · 2,054 words
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The Patron is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1886 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Comedy, Drama, Political Fiction, Realism
- Length: 2,054 words
- Structure: 1 section, 72 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Patron by Guy de Maupassant
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Patron?
- How does this short story by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
Genres
- Satire — The story uses humor and irony to critique social and political structures, particularly the naivety and pretentiousness of the protagonist.
- Comedy — The narrative contains humorous elements and situations, especially in the protagonist's misguided attempts to gain influence and prestige.
- Drama — The plot involves personal and professional conflicts, focusing on the protagonist's rise and fall in social status.
- Political Fiction — The story explores themes related to political ambition and the workings of government, highlighting the protagonist's interactions with political figures.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Realism · French Literature · Short Story Collection · 19th Century Novel · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Patronage System · Power Dynamics · Moral Ambiguity · Human Nature · Societal Critique
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