Perigeux of the Perigord
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his ancestral home in the Perigord region of France after many years abroad. He finds that his family's estate has fallen into disrepair and that the local peasants are struggling under the weight of feudal obligations. As he navigates the complexities of rural life, he becomes embroiled in a series of conflicts with the local lord and his agents, who seek to exploit the peasants for their own gain. The young man must use all his wit and cunning to protect his family's interests and restore justice to the community. Throughout the narrative, the author explores themes of class struggle, social inequality, and the decline of traditional ways of life in rural France during the late 19th century.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1902 · Genre: Travel Literature, Essay, Historical · 2,026 words
First lines
I knew a man once. I met him in a wooden inn upon a bitterly cold day. He was an American, and we talked of many things. At last he said to me: "Have you ever seen the Matterhorn?"
"No," said I; for I hated the very name of it. Then he continued:
What this Textopian page supports
Perigeux of the Perigord is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Travel Literature, Essay, Historical, Philosophical, Cultural Commentary
- Length: 2,026 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Perigeux of the Perigord by Hilaire Belloc
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Perigeux of the Perigord?
- How does this short story by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Travel Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Travel Literature — The text describes a journey and exploration of a specific location, focusing on the cultural and historical significance of Perigeux and its cathedral.
- Essay — The narrative is reflective and analytical, offering personal insights and observations about architecture, history, and human achievement.
- Historical — The work references historical elements and the enduring legacy of the region, including its Roman past and architectural heritage.
- Philosophical — The text delves into philosophical musings on civilization, human endeavor, and the continuity of culture.
Tags
Travelogue · Non-fiction · France · Perigord · Regional history · Geography · Cultural heritage · Local customs · Food culture · Wine production · History of France · Medieval history