The High Constable's Wife
This novel revolves around the life of a woman who marries into a wealthy family and struggles to maintain her social status amidst the corrupt and decadent aristocracy of 19th-century France. The story centers on her relationships with her husband, his mistress, and other members of society, highlighting the societal pressures and expectations placed upon women during this time period. Through the protagonist's experiences, Balzac critiques the excesses and superficiality of the French upper class, while also exploring themes of love, morality, and social hierarchy.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1829 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama · 6,646 words
First lines
The high constable of Armagnac espoused from the desire of a great fortune, the Countess Bonne, who was already considerably enamoured of little Savoisy, son of the chamberlain to his majesty King Charles the Sixth.
What this Textopian page supports
The High Constable's Wife 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: Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama, Tragedy, Adventure
- Length: 6,646 words
- Structure: 1 section, 109 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for The High Constable's Wife by Honoré De Balzac
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Discussion starters
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- How does this novella by Honoré De Balzac fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, involving real historical figures and events, such as the constable and the court of King Charles VI.
- Romance — The central plot revolves around romantic entanglements, infidelity, and the complexities of love and desire.
- Drama — The story is filled with intense emotional conflicts, dramatic confrontations, and tragic outcomes.
- Tragedy — The narrative includes elements of tragedy, such as betrayal, murder, and the downfall of characters.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Romance · Social Commentary · Satire · French Literature · 19th Century Novel · Realism · Domestic Drama · Marriage · Class Struggle · Morality Tale · Family Dynamics