The novel revolves around the life of a young woman named Paz, who is forced into marriage with an older man due to her family's financial struggles. The story explores themes of love, duty, and social class in 19th-century France. Through Paz's experiences, Balzac critiques the societal norms that restrict women's choices and agency.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1828 · Genre: Realism, Drama, Romance · 3 chapters