The Hated Son

Name: The Hated Son
Author: Honoré de Balzac

By Honoré de Balzac

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French Literature

About This Book

The narrative traces the birth and brief life of Etienne d'Herouville, a frail heir rejected by his father and cherished by his mother Jeanne. The father’s open aversion shapes a household of secrecy and fear, prompting the mother to guard and nurse her son, summon a bonesetter for counsel, and arrange protections against suspected poisoning. Interwoven are efforts to secure a companion for Etienne and the strains of aristocratic pride, love, and resentment. The second part recounts Etienne's coming of age, romantic entanglements, and the circumstances that lead to his death, presenting maternal devotion and paternal hostility as opposing forces with tragic consequences.

About the Author

Honoré de Balzac

Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright, renowned for his detailed and vivid portrayal of society in the early 19th century. His monumental work, "La Comédie Humaine," encompasses a vast array of characters and stories that explore the complexities of human nature and social dynamics. Balzac's keen observations of the bourgeoisie and the intricacies of Parisian life are evident in notable titles such as "A Daughter of Eve" and "A Distinguished Provincial at Paris." His writing style is characterized by rich descriptions and a deep psychological insight, making him a pivotal figure in the development of modern literature.