The Lesser Bourgeoisie. the Middle Classes

Name: The Lesser Bourgeoisie. the Middle Classes
Author: Honoré De Balzac

This work examines the social and economic dynamics of the emerging middle class in France during the early 19th century. It portrays the struggles and aspirations of individuals seeking to rise above their humble origins through education, hard work, and strategic marriages. The narrative focuses on the lives of several characters, including a young woman who marries into a wealthy family, a struggling artist who becomes embroiled in a love triangle, and a cunning businessman who manipulates those around him to achieve success. Through these stories, Balzac critiques the social conventions and economic systems that perpetuate inequality and limit social mobility. He also explores the tensions between tradition and modernity, as well as the corrupting influence of wealth and power. Ultimately, this work presents a nuanced and complex portrayal of the middle class, highlighting both its potential for upward mobility and its susceptibility to corruption and exploitation.

By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1830 · Genre: Realism, Social Commentary, Drama · 35 chapters · 206,461 words

First lines

The tourniquet Saint-Jean, the narrow passage entered through a turnstile, a description of which was said to be so wearisome in the study entitled "A Double Life" (Scenes from Private Life), that naive relic of old Paris, has at the present moment no existence except in our said typography. The building of the Hotel-de-Ville, such as we now see it, swept away a whole section of the city.

What this Textopian page supports

The Lesser Bourgeoisie. the Middle Classes 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, Drama, Satire, Psychological Fiction
Length: 206,461 words
Structure: 35 chapters, 3,772 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Realism — The book provides a detailed and realistic portrayal of the social and economic conditions of the middle class in 19th-century France.
Social Commentary — It offers critical insights into the societal norms and class structures of the time, highlighting the ambitions and struggles of the bourgeoisie.
Drama — The narrative is driven by interpersonal conflicts and the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
Satire — The work employs satire to critique the pretensions and materialism of the middle class.