A Distinguished Provincial at Paris

Name: A Distinguished Provincial at Paris
Author: Honoré De Balzac

The novel revolves around the life of a young nobleman who has moved to Paris from the provinces. He struggles to adapt to the city's social hierarchy and becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships with various characters, including a courtesan and a wealthy merchant. As he navigates these relationships, the protagonist must confront his own naivety and the harsh realities of life in Paris. Through his experiences, Balzac explores themes of class, identity, and the corrupting influence of wealth and power. The novel is a commentary on the social ills of 19th-century France, particularly the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy elite. It also offers insights into the lives of the French aristocracy during this period, highlighting their decadence and moral decay. Ultimately, the protagonist's journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of staying true to one's values in the face of adversity.

By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1830 · Genre: Realism, Social Commentary, Bildungsroman · 2 chapters · 144,132 words

First lines

Mme. de Bargeton and Lucien de Rubempre had left Angouleme behind, and were traveling together upon the road to Paris. Not one of the party who made that journey alluded to it afterwards; but it may be believed that an infatuated youth who had looked forward to the delights of an elopement, must have found the continual presence of Gentil, the man-servant, and Albertine, the maid, not a little irksome on the way. Lucien, traveling post for the first time in his life, was horrified to see pretty nearly the whole sum on which he meant to live in Paris for a twelvemonth dropped along the road. Like other men who combine great intellectual powers with the charming simplicity of childhood, he openly expressed his surprise at the new and wonderful things which he saw, and thereby made a mistake. A man should study a woman very carefully before he allows her to see his thoughts and emotions as they arise in him.

What this Textopian page supports

A Distinguished Provincial at Paris is listed on Textopian as a novel by Honoré De Balzac, dated 1830 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Honoré De Balzac
Date: 1830 CE
Language: English
Genres: Realism, Social Commentary, Bildungsroman, Drama, Romance
Length: 144,132 words
Structure: 2 chapters, 2,169 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for A Distinguished Provincial at Paris by Honoré De Balzac
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Realism — The book provides a detailed and realistic portrayal of Parisian society and the struggles of a provincial trying to succeed in it.
Social Commentary — It critiques the social structures and class dynamics of 19th-century Paris.
Bildungsroman — The narrative follows the protagonist's personal growth and development in a new environment.
Drama — The plot is driven by intense emotional and social conflicts.