Bertha the Penitent by Honoré De Balzac
The novel revolves around a young woman who seeks redemption for past mistakes through her devotion to a Catholic order of nuns. Her journey is marked by inner turmoil and spiritual struggle as she grapples with the consequences of her actions. Through her experiences, the novel explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and personal transformation.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1829 · Genre: Drama, Romance, Psychological Fiction · 14,262 words
First lines
I. HOW BERTHA REMAINED A MAIDEN IN THE MARRIED STATE
About the time of the first flight of the Dauphin, which threw our good Sire, Charles the Victorious, into a state of great dejection, there happened a great misfortune to a noble House of Touraine, since extinct in every branch; and it is owing to this fact that this most deplorable history may now be safely brought to light. To aid him in this work the author calls to his assistance the holy confessors, martyrs, and other celestial dominations, who, by the commandments of God, were the promoters of good in this affair.
What this Textopian page supports
Bertha the Penitent is listed on Textopian as a novella by Honoré De Balzac, dated 1829 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Honoré De Balzac
- Date: 1829 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Psychological Fiction, Tragedy, Historical Fiction
- Length: 14,262 words
- Structure: 1 section, 171 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Bertha the Penitent by Honoré De Balzac
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
- The Fair Imperia by Honore De Balzac
- Father Goriot by Honore De Balzac
- The Devils Pool by George Sand
- Martins Girl by Guy De Maupassant
- Farewell by Honore De Balzac
- The Venial Sin by Honore De Balzac
Genres
- Drama — The narrative focuses on intense emotional conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist.
- Romance — Central to the story is a romantic relationship that drives the plot and character development.
- Psychological Fiction — The story delves deeply into the psychological motivations and inner turmoil of the characters.
- Tragedy — The plot involves a series of unfortunate events leading to a sorrowful or disastrous conclusion.
Tags
French Literature · 19th Century Novel · Social Commentary · Moral Allegory · Penitence Theme · Redemption Story · Female Protagonist · Middle Class Life · Marriage and Family · Social Hierarchy · Class Conflict · Morality vs. Desire