The Sermon of the Merry Vicar of Meudon
This novella is a satirical tale that explores the theme of social class and morality. It revolves around a young priest who becomes disillusioned with his role in society and decides to live among the common people, adopting a more carefree and worldly lifestyle. Through this character's experiences, Balzac critiques the societal norms and expectations placed on individuals within the clergy.
By Honoré De Balzac · First published 1829 · Genre: Satire, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction · 6,300 words
First lines
When, for the last time, came Master Francis Rabelais, to the court of King Henry the Second of the name, it was in that winter when the will of nature compelled him to quit for ever his fleshly garb, and live forever in his writings resplendent with that good philosophy to which we shall always be obliged to return. The good man had, at that time, counted as nearly as possible seventy flights of the swallow. His Homeric head was but scantily ornamented with hair, but his beard was still perfect in its flowing majesty; there was still an air of spring-time in his quiet smile, and wisdom on his ample brow. He was a fine old man according to the statement of those who had the happiness to gaze upon his face, to which Socrates and Aristophanes, formerly enemies, but then become friends, contributed their features.
What this Textopian page supports
The Sermon of the Merry Vicar of Meudon is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: Honoré De Balzac
- Date: 1829 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Comedy
- Length: 6,300 words
- Structure: 1 section, 68 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Unconscious Comedians by Honore De Balzac
- The Cream Of The Jest by James Branch Cabell
- A Normandy Joke by Guy De Maupassant
- Mlle Fauteuil by Oliver Herford
- The Danger Of Being Too Innocent by Honore De Balzac
- On A Man And His Burden by Hilaire Belloc
Genres
- Satire — The work employs humor, irony, and exaggeration to critique and mock societal norms, politics, and human behavior.
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores philosophical themes and ideas, particularly through allegory and metaphor.
- Historical Fiction — Set in a historical context, the story references real historical figures and events, blending them with fictional elements.
- Fantasy — Incorporates fantastical elements such as mythical creatures and exaggerated characters, creating a surreal narrative.
Tags
French Literature · 19th Century Novel · Social Commentary · Satire · Comedy · Clergy · Morality · Philosophy · Realism · Absurdity · Critique of Society · Moral Ambiguity