Lost Illusions
Edition: New edition
Publisher: Modern Library
Published: September 16, 1997
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 699
ISBN-13: 9780679602644
Subjects: 19th century fiction; Literature - Classics / Criticism; French Novel And Short Story; Fiction; Social life and customs; General; Fiction / General; Classics; 19th century; France
Description: Written between 1837 and 1843, Lost Illusions reveals, perhaps better than any other of Balzac's ninety-two novels, the nature and scope of his genius. The story of Lucien Chardon, a young poet from Angouleme who tries desperately to make a name for himself in Paris, is a brilliantly realistic and boldly satirical portrait of provincial manners and aristocratic life.

Handsome and ambitious but naive, Lucien is patronized by the beau monde as represented by Madame de Bargeton and her cousin, the formidable Marquise d'Espard, only to be duped by them. Denied the social rank he thought would be his, Lucien discards his poetic aspirations and turns to hack journalism; his descent into Parisian low life ultimately leads to his own death.
Notes: Modern Library