The Greatest Works of French Literature: 100+ Novels, Short Stories, Poetry Collections & Plays' represents a comprehensive exploration into the heart and soul of French literary brilliance, spanning several centuries of intellectual and creative thought. This anthology encapsulates the diversity and depth of French literature, covering a gamut of genres from the tragic to the comedic, the romantic to the realist. Significant for its inclusion of a variety of literary styles, this collection brings together the monumental works of renowned authors like Voltaire, Marcel Proust, and Gustave Flaubert, among others, offering readers an unparalleled mosaic of French literary heritage. Each piece, carefully selected for its historical and cultural significance, invites readers into the complexities and beauties of human experience as seen through a distinctly French lens. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from varied backgrounds, epochs, and philosophical inclinations, collectively define and expand the contours of French literature. From the pioneering essays of Jean-Jacques Rousseau to the intricate psychological novels of Marcel Proust, and from the critical social commentaries of Émile Zola to the lyrical beauty of Charles Baudelaire's poetry, this anthology is steeped in the contributions of figures who have been instrumental in inspiring literary and cultural movements such as the Enlightenment, Romanticism, Realism, and the Existentialist movement. The collection stands as a testament to the dynamic dialogues and intersections across different periods, showcasing how these varied voices contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of themes such as identity, power, love, and societal change. 'The Greatest Works of French Literature: 100+ Novels, Short Stories, Poetry Collections & Plays' is an indispensable collection for anyone seeking to delve into the vast expanse of French literary tradition. It offers readers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of thematic and stylistic expressions, fostering a deeper appreciation of the classics while engaging with the evolution of French thought and storytelling. This anthology is not merely an academic resource but a portal to the luminous world of French literature, inviting readers to confront and ponder the universal questions that have perennially captivated the human spirit, all through the distinct and powerful medium of French literary art.

Les Misérables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. In the English-speaking world, the novel is usually referred to by its original French title. However, several alternatives have been used, including The Miserable, The Wretched, The Miserable Ones, The Poor Ones, The Wretched Poor, The Victims and The Dispossessed. Beginning in 1815 and culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris, the novel follows the lives and interactions of several characters, particularly the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption. Examining the nature of law and grace, the novel elaborates upon the history of France, the architecture and urban design of Paris, politics, moral philosophy, antimonarchism, justice, religion, and the types and nature of romantic and familial love. Les Misérables has been popularized through numerous adaptations for the stage, television, and film, including a musical and a film adaptation of that musical. The appearance of the novel was highly anticipated and advertised. Critical reactions were diverse, but most of them were negative. Commercially, the work was a great success globally.

Excerpt from A History of French LiteratureHE lack of a convenient and yet comprehensive history of French literature, beyond the range of skeleton outlines or compendiums of facts, has long been apparent from experience to the present writer. On the other hand, excellent works in French, such as those of Brunetiere or of M. Lanson, are written from a standpoint unfamiliar to the English-speaking reader or student, and take too much for granted. M. Lamson's book is, perhaps, the best one-volume history of French literature in existence, but foreigners often find it difficult to handle.An effort is here made to meet the needs of readers in a work going beyond simple outlines, yet not pretending to specialisation in every period a thing which is impossible for one man now that we are, of necessity, either mediaevalists or moderns. The book might, perhaps, more fittingly be called a literary history of France, inasmuch as the relations have been emphasised of literature and social environment, and the Latin writings of the Middle Ages have been included. Accuracy has, of course, been sought as far as possible in view of the wide range of the subject. Yet the author does not aspire, as some do, to the merit of an absolutely independent judgment on every topic. On the contrary, he considers it the duty of the composer of a synthesis to rely, to a reasonable degree, on those who have spent months or years on individual writers whom he must perforce treat summarily. He sets himself down unhesitatingly as a pickpurse of another's wit the authorities from whom he has readily drawn will, it is hoped, be found accounted for in the bibliography.About the PublisherForgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.comThis book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.

George Edward Bateman Saintsbury (1845-1933), was an English writer and critic. He began his literary career in 1875 as a critic for the Academy, and for ten years was actively engaged in journalism. In 1895 he became professor of rhetoric and English literature at the University of Edinburgh, a position he held until 1915. His first book, A Primer of French Literature (1880) and his Short History of French Literature (1882) were followed by a series of editions of French classics and of books and articles on the history of French literature. He subsequently produced some of his most important works, A History of Criticism (1900-1904), with the companion volume Loci Critici, Passages Illustrative of Critical Theory and Practice (1903), A History of English Prosody from the 12th Century to the Present Day (1906-1910) and The Later Nineteenth Century (1909). His Notes on a Cellar-Book (1920) is one of the greatest testimonials to drink and drinking in the history of wine writing.

Chapter One We were in class when the head-master came in, followed by a "new fellow," not wearing the school uniform, and a school servant carrying a large desk. Those who had been asleep woke up, and every one rose as if just surprised at his work. The head-master made a sign to us to sit down. Then, turning to the class-master, he said to him in a low voice— "Monsieur Roger, here is a pupil whom I recommend to your care; he'll be in the second. If his work and conduct are satisfactory, he will go into one of the upper classes, as becomes his age." The "new fellow," standing in the corner behind the door so that he could hardly be seen, was a country lad of about fifteen, and taller than any of us. His hair was cut square on his forehead like a village chorister's; he looked reliable, but very ill at ease. Although he was not broad-shouldered, his short school jacket of green cloth with black buttons must have been tight about the arm-holes, and showed at the opening of the cuffs red wrists accustomed to being bare. His legs, in blue stockings, looked out from beneath yellow trousers, drawn tight by braces, He wore stout, ill-cleaned, hob-nailed boots. We began repeating the lesson. He listened with all his ears, as attentive as if at a sermon, not daring even to cross his legs or lean on his elbow; and when at two o'clock the bell rang, the master was obliged to tell him to fall into line with the rest of us. When we came back to work, we were in the habit of throwing our caps on the ground so as to have our hands more free; we used from the door to toss them under the form, so that they hit against the wall and made a lot of dust: it was "the thing." But, whether he had not noticed the trick, or did not dare to attempt it, the"new fellow," was still holding his cap on his knees even after prayers were over. It was one of those head-gears of composite order, in which we can find traces of the bearskin, shako, billycock hat, sealskin cap, and cotton night-cap; one of those poor things, in fine, whose dumb ugliness has depths of expression, like an imbecile's face.

The Chouans is a gripping historical novel that tells the story of the Breton peasants who rebelled against the French Revolution. Written by Honoré de Balzac, one of the greatest French writers of all time, this book is a masterpiece of historical fiction. The Works of Honoré de Balzac is a definitive collection of his most famous works, and The Chouans is a must-read for any lover of historical fiction. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Continue your journey through French literary brilliance with William Patten's ""Short Story Classics (Foreign), Vol. 5, French II."" This captivating volume features a new selection of outstanding French short stories that showcase the depth and richness of French literary heritage. Ever wondered how French literature continues to evolve while maintaining its classic charm? This volume offers fresh perspectives and timeless narratives that highlight the diversity and creativity of French storytelling. Each story in this collection provides a window into the French experience, revealing new facets of culture, emotion, and imagination. Whether you're a longtime admirer of French literature or exploring it for the first time, these stories promise to engage and inspire. Are you ready to dive into a new set of French literary treasures and expand your appreciation for classic storytelling? Discover the elegance and intrigue of French literature with ""Short Story Classics (Foreign), Vol. 5, French II."" Enrich your reading experience with these exceptional stories—purchase your copy today and continue exploring the essence of French fiction!