The Physiology of Marriage, Volume I
This novel explores the institution of marriage through a series of interconnected stories that examine the social and economic realities of provincial France during the early 19th century. The narrative centers around the lives of several couples, each struggling with their own unique set of challenges and conflicts. Through these characters' experiences, the novel critiques societal norms and expectations surrounding marriage, love, and relationships. One of the primary themes is the commodification of women, highlighting how they are often viewed as mere possessions or financial assets within marriages. The novel also delves into issues of class, power dynamics, and the constraints placed on individuals by social convention. Throughout the text, Balzac employs a satirical tone to expose the hypocrisy and superficiality of upper-class society, while also offering a nuanced portrayal of the human experience.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1829 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary · 9 chapters · 40,421 words
First lines
We will declaim against stupid laws until they are changed, and in the meantime blindly submit to them. -- Diderot, _Supplement to the Voyage of Bougainville_.
Physiology, what must I consider your meaning?
What this Textopian page supports
The Physiology of Marriage, Volume I 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: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary, Essay, Romantic Fiction
- Length: 40,421 words
- Structure: 9 chapters, 638 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
- The Physiology Of Marriage Volume Ii by Honore De Balzac
- The Celibates by Honore De Balzac
- Virtue In The Ballet by Guy De Maupassant
- Other Kingdom by E. M. Forster
- Sundays Of A Bourgeois by Guy De Maupassant
- Domestic Peace by Honore De Balzac
Genres
- Philosophical Fiction — The book explores philosophical themes related to marriage, human nature, and society.
- Satire — It uses humor and irony to critique societal norms and the institution of marriage.
- Social Commentary — The narrative provides insights and critiques on the social structures and expectations of marriage.
- Essay — The book is structured as a series of essays discussing various aspects of marriage.
Tags
Satire · Social Commentary · Marriage · Relationships · Philosophy · Psychology · Sociology · French Literature · 19th Century Literature · Realism · Comedy of Manners · Critique of Society
Contents
- The Subject
- Marriage Statistics
- Of the Honest Woman
- Of the Virtuous Woman
- Of the Predestined
- Of Boarding Schools
- Of the Honeymoon
- Of the First Symptoms
- Epilogue