Author
Edmond About
1828-1885
Edmond About (1828-1885) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Edmond About
Les mariages de Paris
"Les mariages de Paris" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story opens in a post-revolutionary Paris and introduces the lives of two brothers, Matthieu and Léonce Debay, jettisoned into academia and society, respectively. As they navigate their ambitions and familial ties, themes of love, class, and solid moral values emerge, all under the shifting societal landscape of Parisian life. At the start of the novel, the narrator describes his friendship with the twin brothers, Matthieu and Léonce, revealing their contrasting personalities and aspirations. Matthieu is portrayed as diligent and committed to his scholarly pursuits, while Léonce is captivated by the allure of the Parisian elite and embarks on a quest for a wealthy wife. Their uncle, Yvon, provides for their financial needs, leading to a lifestyle that allows both brothers to pursue their dreams. The story hints at deepening relationships, including Matthieu’s infatuation with Mlle Bourgade, setting the stage for a tale that intertwines personal and societal ambitions against the backdrop of 19th-century Paris.
Dernières lettres d'un bon jeune homme à sa cousine Madeleine
"Dernières lettres d'un bon jeune homme à sa cousine Madeleine" by Edmond About is a collection of epistolary essays written in the mid-19th century. The work presents the thoughts and observations of a young journalist as he reflects on various aspects of society, including politics, journalism, and the arts. The main character engages in correspondence with his cousin Madeleine, sharing his candid insights and experiences within the world of journalism and beyond. The opening of the work introduces the protagonist, who addresses his cousin through a series of letters, expressing a longing to reconnect after a summer away. He describes the return of various segments of society to Paris, including students and vacationers, and reflects on the allure and challenges of journalism. The young man contemplates the motivations behind journalistic writing, acknowledging both the excitement it brings and the disillusionment that follows from the pursuit of ephemeral successes. He critiques the industry, revealing a blend of cynicism and idealism, setting the tone for the reflective explorations to come in his letters.
Lettres d'un bon jeune homme à sa cousine Madeleine
"Lettres d'un bon jeune homme à sa cousine Madeleine" by Edmond About is a fictional correspondence written in the mid-19th century. The narrative centers on a character named Valentin, who embarks on a contemplative and sometimes humorous exploration of life, politics, and society, reflecting on themes such as journalism, freedom of expression, and personal experiences in a changing world. The opening of the work introduces the reader to a collection of letters that Valentin has penned to his cousin Madeleine, discussing both his views on contemporary political issues and his personal journey as a young man naïve regarding the complexities of life. As he navigates through various encounters and reflections, his sentiments range from admiration for the beauty of places like Baden to the much more cynical observation of societal norms, especially regarding government and journalism. The letters blend light-hearted anecdotes with deeper philosophical musings, and serve as a window into the socio-political climate of the time, making it both an engaging and thought-provoking read.
La Mère de la Marquise
"La Mère de la Marquise" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Éliane Benoît, a widow who, despite her previous misfortunes, harbors aspirations to secure a prestigious future for her daughter, Lucile, by marrying her off to a man of noble descent. The narrative explores themes of ambition, social status, and the intertwining of love and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the character of Mme Benoît, who is portrayed as a vivacious and ambitious woman with a vivid memory of her own youth and a desire to elevate her family's status. The plot begins with her memories of seizing opportunities for her daughter, initially navigating through encounters with potential suitors until she finally determines to marry Lucile to a suitable marquis. Through this introduction, the stage is set for a comedic exploration of social pretensions and the complications that arise from Mme Benoît's persistent ambition in the harsh world of aristocratic Parisian society.
La nariz de un notario
"La nariz de un notario" by Edmond About is a satirical novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Alfredo L'Ambert, a prominent notary in France who faces a peculiar predicament after losing part of his nose during an altercation. The narrative explores themes of social status, the absurdity of honor, and the complexities of human relationships set against the backdrop of Parisian society. The opening of the novel introduces the main character, notary Alfredo L'Ambert, detailing his distinguished appearance and reputation. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he accidentally injures Ayvaz-Bey, a Turkish official, leading to a duel driven by honor and rivalry over the affections of a dancer. The scene shifts between L'Ambert's exaggerated concerns about his disfigurement and the ridiculous lengths to which he and others will go to preserve their societal image. L'Ambert's ensuing chaos includes a comedic chase after a cat believed to have consumed his severed nose, outlining the farcical nature of the events as he grapples with his loss and the repercussions of a seemingly trivial incident.
The King of the Mountains
"The King of the Mountains" by Edmond About is a French novel published in 1857. A German botanist searching for rare plants in Greece is kidnapped alongside a wealthy English mother and daughter by Hadgi-Stavros, a legendary brigand chief who once fought for Greek independence. As ransom demands mount and supposed rescuers prove corrupt, the captives discover that survival depends on navigating a treacherous world where heroism and villainy blur, and even escape may not bring the expected rewards.
De Pontoise à Stamboul
"De Pontoise à Stamboul" by Edmond About is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book recounts the author's adventurous journey from Pontoise, France, to Istanbul, Turkey, highlighting the experiences and encounters along the way. The narrative is likely infused with social commentary, as it explores various cultures and places visited during the trip. At the start of the narrative, the author reflects on his recent journey that took him from the banks of the Oise River to Istanbul within a remarkably short span. He sets the scene with excitement and wonder, discussing the rapid travel arrangements made by a wealthy banker friend and the various dignitaries invited for a luxurious inauguration of a new sleeping car service. The author vividly describes his experiences traveling through Europe, the remarkable comforts of modern train travel, and the captivating characters he meets, all while painting a portrait of the landscapes and cultures encountered along the route.
Le roi des montagnes
"Le roi des montagnes" by Edmond About is a French-language novel published in 1857. A young German botanist travels to Greece to study plants but is kidnapped by Hatzistavros, a legendary brigand chief who once fought in the Greek War of Independence. Held captive alongside a wealthy English mother and daughter, the botanist discovers a web of corruption connecting the brigands, Greek authorities, and high society. As ransom negotiations unfold and escape attempts fail, he must navigate deadly games of deception to survive.
La Reĝo de la Montoj
"La Reĝo de la Montoj" by Edmond About is a novel published in 1909, translated into Esperanto by Gaston Moch. Set in Greece after the War of Independence, the story follows bandits who once fought as heroes but now terrorize the mountains. The cruel Haĝi-Stavros, the "King of the Mountains," runs his criminal enterprise like a business while maintaining political influence through corruption. When European travelers fall captive to these bandits, their own flaws and follies complicate their fate in this biting satire.
Germana
"Germana" by Edmond About is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story appears to revolve around the struggles of the ducal family, particularly focusing on the titular character, Germana, who is battling severe illness amid the collapse of her family's fortunes. The narrative hints at themes of desperation, social class disparities, and the search for both hope and dignity within a context of financial ruin. The opening of the book sets the scene on January 1, 1853, in a grand hotel in Paris, where the servants are celebrating the distribution of their year-end bonuses, revealing a vibrant yet class-conscious atmosphere. Amid their joviality, a poor woman enters, shocking the servants into silence—it is the duchess, wife of the bankrupt Duke of La Tour de Embleuse, discarded by her once-privileged life. The anticipation of disaster looms over the family, particularly regarding the health of Germana, their daughter, who is gravely ill. The plot foreshadows complex interactions between social status, desperation, and the choices faced by each character as they navigate their fallen circumstances. In particular, conversations reflect on wealth, dignity, and the sacrifices that the characters must make, particularly Germana, who contemplates her role in a potential marriage to save her family.
Le nez d'un notaire
"Le Nez d'un Notaire" by Edmond About is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Maître Alfred L'Ambert, a successful notary in France who experiences a not-so-pleasant incident that leads to a dramatic alteration of his facial appearance. The narrative explores themes of identity, societal norms, and the pursuit of status through the lens of L'Ambert's misadventures, blending humor with social commentary. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Maître Alfred L'Ambert, described as the epitome of elegance and success as a notary, with a strikingly aquiline nose that he takes great pride in. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he accidentally injures a client, Ayvaz-Bey, during a chance encounter, leading to a duel challenge. The ensuing chaos involves a comical pursuit of L'Ambert's severed nose after it is lost in a scuffle with a cat. The opening sets the stage for a series of humorous events that reflect L'Ambert's vanity, arrogance, and the absurdity of social conventions in his world.
L'homme à l'oreille cassée
"L'homme à l'oreille cassée" by Edmond About is a novel published in 1862. When a French engineer returns from Russia with a mummified body in his luggage, he discovers it's a Napoleonic colonel preserved through experimental desiccation in 1813. A scientific accident leads to the officer's resurrection forty-six years later, still believing himself twenty-four and living in Napoleon's era. This comedic science-fiction tale explores the chaotic consequences when past collides with present.
L'infâme
"L'infâme" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of Parisian high society, focusing on the struggles of its main character, Jean-Pierre Gautripon, who suffers from societal disdain due to his perceived role as a manipulated husband. The book explores themes of infamy, reputation, and the complexities of human relationships in a world dominated by wealth and social status. At the start of the narrative, the bustling Parisian society is depicted, particularly through the lavish gatherings at the Gautripon home, where Jean-Pierre's wife, Émilie, enjoys a life of luxury supported by her wealthy lover, Léon Bréchot. Gautripon, once an esteemed member of the community, is now ridiculed and referred to as "the infame," a term reflecting the public's contempt for his situation. As the scene unfolds, we learn of his painful existence amid rumors and mockery, showcasing the hypocrisy of a society that both celebrates wealth and condemns moral transgressions. The opening portion sets the stage for a tale filled with intrigue, betrayal, and the quest for personal dignity in a morally ambiguous world.
Les mariages de province La fille du chanoine, Mainfroi, L'album du régiment, Étienne.
"Les mariages de province" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around the social dynamics and marriages in provincial France, illustrating the lives of its protagonists, including the central character, Professor Henri Marchal, and Mlle Adda Kolb, the daughter of a chanoine. It explores themes of love, social expectations, and the impact of family ties on personal desires. The opening of the novel introduces Henri Marchal as a respected doctor in Strasbourg, who is contemplating marriage. As he interacts with various characters, including his potential love interest, Adda Kolb, the story delves into the complexities of societal expectations concerning marriage. Marchal is pressured by his peers and the society surrounding him, leading to internal conflict about whom he truly loves and desires to marry. The reader is drawn into a narrative that highlights the balance between personal happiness and the weight of societal conventions, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of relationships in a provincial setting.
Tolla
"Tolla" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Tolla, the daughter of Count Alexandre Feraldi, as she navigates her youth in Rome amidst societal expectations, romance, and familial pressures. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of aristocratic life and explores themes of love, devotion, and the struggles of a young woman coming of age. The opening of "Tolla" introduces readers to the Feraldi family and their esteemed social status in Rome. Count Alexandre, a man dedicated to restoring his family's fortune and reputation, is presented alongside his wife and their two children, Tolla and Victor. The chapter outlines Tolla's upbringing, highlighting her sheltered yet spirited childhood spent among nature and her adoration for her family. As Tolla reaches adolescence, she is sent to a prestigious boarding school where her passion for learning blossoms. The narrative hints at her striking beauty and intelligence, setting the stage for her eventual introduction to high society and the romantic intrigues that will follow. The richness of her character and the details of her family dynamics create an inviting premise for readers interested in character-driven tales of love and societal expectations.
The man with the broken ear
"The Man with the Broken Ear" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Leon Renault, a young engineer who, after having made a fortune in the Ural mines, returns home to Fontainebleau to reunite with his family and his childhood sweetheart, Clementine. As Leon navigates the joys of familial reunion and the complexities of love, he becomes entangled in the unusual fate of a desiccated colonel—an experiment in reanimation led by the eccentric Professor Meiser. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Leon as he arrives home amidst much excitement and warmth from his parents and friends. He is eager to see Clementine, his betrothed, whose beauty and charm are vividly described. However, their happy reunion is interrupted by the revelation of a mummy that Leon has brought back from his travels—the preserved body of Colonel Fougas. As Leon shares humorous yet unsettling details about the colonel, it sparks Clementine's deep curiosity and compassion toward this bizarre figure, leading her to express strangely intense feelings for him. This peculiar attachment adds a layer of complexity to Leon and Clementine's budding relationship, reflecting on themes of love, the intersections of science and morality, and the human fascination with life and death.
The Roman Question
"The Roman Question" by Edmond About is a historical account written in the mid-19th century that delves deeply into the political and social tensions surrounding the Papal States and the authority of the Pope during a time of great upheaval in Italy. The book critically examines the structure of the Papal government, the grievances of its subjects, and the paradoxes inherent in the Pope's dual role as a spiritual leader and a temporal ruler, drawing from various personal observations and contemporary analyses. The opening of the text serves as a preface, outlining the author's extensive research and motivations for writing this work. The author reveals his initial impressions and the challenges he faced while compiling his thoughts amidst political contention, particularly the backlash from the Pontifical government. He introduces his focus on the seemingly oppressive rule of the Pope, whose absolute power generates unrest among the subjects who yearn for reform and better governance. This section effectively sets the stage for exploring the complexities of the Roman political landscape, highlighting the dissatisfaction among clergy and laypeople alike regarding the governance of the Papal States, and foreshadowing further discussions on class struggles, societal issues, and the necessary independence of the Pope from secular power.
Le Turco
"Le Turco" by Edmond About is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds around a group of officers in Algeria, focusing particularly on the character of Léopold Gardelux, who experiences both personal struggles and the realities of military life. The narrative dives into themes of friendship, love, and the complexities of social class. The opening of "Le Turco" introduces us to the camaraderie among officers gathered in a café in Biskra. It captures a moment filled with laughter and seriousness, especially as Captain Brunner reflects on a poignant piece of news regarding a wedding that stirs emotions among the group. As the narrative progresses, we learn about Léopold, an Alsatian officer of noble birth, whose past and hidden affections are revealed in interactions with his peers. The tone oscillates between light-hearted banter and deeper reflections on love and loss, laying the groundwork for the intertwining of personal stories against the backdrop of military duty and colonial life in Algeria.
Germaine
"Germaine" by Edmond About is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the struggles of the La Tour d'Embleuse family, particularly focusing on Germaine, the daughter who is gravely ill and entwined in her parents' turbulent lives as they confront their financial decline and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, the scene is set in the grand Hôtel de Sanglié in Paris where the baron provides a glimpse into the domestic life of the aristocracy and its servitude. We witness the interactions among the household staff as they speculate on their master's wealth. Contrasting this domestic bliss, the narrative shifts to the duchess, Germaine’s mother, who is described with poignant detail as she grapples with poverty and the welfare of her ill daughter. The text introduces a central conflict when the family’s aristocratic identity collides with pressing financial struggles, leading to a desperate conversation about the potential marriage of Germaine to a wealthy suitor, sharpening themes of love, sacrifice, and social class.
Roma contemporanea
"Roma contemporanea" by Edmond About is a travelogue and social study written in the mid-19th century. It examines the Papal States—especially Rome—through concrete observations rather than political argument, portraying institutions, city life, religion, economics, and art with a sharp, ironic eye. The journey frames Rome within a wider Mediterranean context to highlight contrasts and reveal how everyday realities under papal rule compare with more modern urban models. The opening of this work declares it is not a political pamphlet but a literary study drawn from a six‑month tour, noting that debate has given way to action and that Rome’s regime prides itself on immobility. The narrative then launches into a lively, data‑rich portrait of Marseille: the Canebière as a global gateway, the stark contrast between the clean, expanding “new city” and the fetid, crumbling old quarters, and the vast redevelopment around La Joliette. About sketches the Marseillais as energetic, risk‑taking, sociable, and indulgent—tolerant in business failures, exuberant in theaters and cafés, and locked in a comic rivalry with Aix. He surveys key industries (sugar refining, seed‑oil extraction from sesame, soap works, cork production), celebrates an exceptional businesswoman who runs major factories, and shows how steam navigation and the Messageries accelerate trade, especially in grain during poor harvests. He condenses a mini‑history of speculation, the cleanup of the local bourse, and the shift toward solid securities. Municipal ambition dominates: canals, ports, a cathedral, a bourse, a palace of justice, and an imperial residence, all financed with confidence in future growth. He closes this beginning with a tart critique of local artistic taste and museum management, segueing into an illustrative Bavarian anecdote about how civic pride often misguides cultural decisions.