The Story of the Duchess of Cicogne and of Monsieur de Boulingrin / 1920

Name: The Story of the Duchess of Cicogne and of Monsieur de Boulingrin / 1920
Author: Anatole France

By Anatole France

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About This Book

A sequence of marvellous tales reimagines familiar fairy motifs through mock-memoirs of a royal court, opening with a retelling of a century-long sleep and a baptismal scene that summons godmotherly fairies and an uninvited elder. Enchantments and transformations are narrated alongside wry observations about ceremony, etiquette, and vanity, as episodes move between whimsical folklore, ironic anecdote, and pseudo-historical detail. The tone pairs affectionate wonder with dry satire, recasting legendary figures and courtly rituals to show how ritual, rumor, and manners shape perception and collective memory.

About the Author

Anatole France

Anatole France was a prominent French novelist and critic, celebrated for his wit and literary style. Born in 1844, he became a significant figure in the literary world, known for his exploration of themes such as social justice and the complexities of human nature. His notable works include "Penguin Island," a satirical narrative that critiques society through the lens of anthropomorphized penguins. France's writing often reflects his deep engagement with philosophical ideas, and he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1921 for his literary achievements. His legacy continues to influence writers and readers alike.