Gambara by Honoré De Balzac (1829)
The novel revolves around the life of a young nobleman who becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and power struggles within his family and society at large. He is torn between his loyalty to his family and his own desires, which often put him at odds with those around him. Through his experiences, Balzac explores themes of identity, morality, and the corrupting influence of wealth and privilege. The novel is a commentary on the social ills of the time, including the decay of aristocratic values and the rise of a new class of wealthy entrepreneurs who are willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1829 · Genre: Drama, Psychological Fiction, Romance · 26,680 words
First lines
New Year's Day of 1831 was pouring out its packets of sugared almonds, four o'clock was striking, there was a mob in the Palais-Royal, and the eating-houses were beginning to fill. At this moment a coupe drew up at the _perron_ and a young man stepped out; a man of haughty appearance, and no doubt a foreigner; otherwise he would not have displayed the aristocratic _chasseur_ who attended him in a plumed hat, nor the coat of arms which the heroes of July still attacked.
What this Textopian page supports
Gambara is listed on Textopian as a novel 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: Novel
- Author: Honoré De Balzac
- Date: 1829 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Psychological Fiction, Romance, Philosophical Fiction, Realism
- Length: 26,680 words
- Structure: 1 section, 365 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Gambara by Honoré De Balzac
- 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 Gambara?
- How does this novel by Honoré De Balzac fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Drama first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- A Prince Of Bohemia by Honore De Balzac
- The Country Doctor by Honore De Balzac
- Ursula by Honore De Balzac
- Lost Illusions by Honore De Balzac
- Farewell by Honore De Balzac
Genres
- Drama — The narrative focuses on intense emotional and personal conflicts, characteristic of dramatic literature.
- Psychological Fiction — Explores the inner workings of the characters' minds, particularly the protagonist's struggles and obsessions.
- Romance — Contains elements of romantic relationships and the complexities of love.
- Philosophical Fiction — Incorporates philosophical themes and questions about art, genius, and madness.
Tags
Historical Fiction · French Literature · 19th Century Novel · Romance · Adventure · Coming of Age · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Family Drama · Love Triangle · Betrayal · Deception