Author
Henri Barbusse
1873-1935
Henri Barbusse (1873-1935) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Henri Barbusse
Under Fire: The Story of a Squad
"Under Fire: The Story of a Squad" by Henri Barbusse is a novel published in December 1916, among the first works about World War I. Based on Barbusse's experiences as a French soldier on the Western Front, it follows a squad of French infantry through journal-like anecdotes of trench warfare. The novel became a phenomenal success and profoundly influenced the Lost Generation movement, particularly Ernest Hemingway and Erich Maria Remarque. Its unflinching realism and courage in depicting the war's brutality earned it the Prix Goncourt in 1916.
Le feu (Journal d'une Escouade)
"Le feu (Journal d'une Escouade)" by Henri Barbusse is a novel published in 1916, based on the author's own experiences as a volunteer soldier in World War I. Written after twenty-two months in the trenches, this Prix Goncourt winner follows a squad of diverse soldiers united by their desire to survive. Through dialogue and observation, Barbusse captures the expressions, fears, and horrors of frontline warfare. The book sparked controversy for its break with wartime propaganda and its unflinching portrayal of combat's brutal reality.
Light
"Light" by Henri Barbusse is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a working-class town and captures the struggles and aspirations of its inhabitants, including the central character, a clerk named Paulin. The narrative delves into themes such as the weight of daily life, societal class divisions, and the pursuit of hope and love amidst despair. The opening of the novel introduces us to Paulin's humdrum existence as he finishes his workday and traverses through the industrial landscape, encountering various characters along the way, including his aunt Josephine. Their relationship is marred by past conflicts, particularly after a heated exchange that leaves them both in emotional turmoil. The scene effectively sets the tone for the rest of the novel, evoking a sense of melancholy and inertia in Paulin's life as he grapples with the looming realities of familial responsibilities, class consciousness, and his own personal aspirations in a world that feels heavy and indifferent.
Jésus
"Jésus" by Henri Barbusse is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the life and teachings of Jesus through a deeply introspective and poetic lens, capturing his formative years, relationships, and struggles as he navigates the complexities of human existence. The themes of truth, faith, and the human experience are interwoven through the eyes of Jesus himself, creating a profound reflection on spirituality and morality. The opening of "Jésus" introduces readers to a young Jesus, who articulates his observations and dreams in a vivid, almost dreamlike manner. He describes his surroundings, including his family and village, and reflects on existential questions about his identity and purpose. Interactions with his parents and the villagers reveal insights into his character and the values he holds, such as empathy for the poor and an understanding of human suffering. As he awakens to the world around him, Jesus contemplates the presence of deeper truths and the journey of self-discovery that lies ahead.
Meissonier
"Meissonier" by Henri Barbusse is a biography written in the early 20th century that explores the life and works of the French painter Jean-Louis-Ernest Meissonier (1815-1891). The book provides an in-depth look at Meissonier's artistic journey, emphasizing his dedication to realism and attention to detail, particularly in the realm of military painting. As a significant figure in the art world, Meissonier is often celebrated for his ability to capture the nuances of human expression and the atmosphere of historical moments. In this biography, Barbusse chronicles Meissonier's early years, his struggles to gain recognition, and his eventual rise to prominence through his meticulous and vibrant small-scale paintings. The narrative highlights key themes such as the artist's devotion to accuracy, the showcasing of human character, and his unique approach to depicting historical scenes without resorting to grandiose battle representations. Barbusse describes Meissonier's extensive research into costumes and his penchant for detail, which reflect his commitment to portraying a truthful representation of his subjects. The book ultimately celebrates Meissonier as a master of genre and military painting, capturing the essence of his artistic contributions to French art.
The Inferno
"The Inferno" by Henri Barbusse is a novel written in 1908. An unnamed, isolated narrator discovers a hole in his Paris boarding house wall, granting him a secret view into the neighboring room. Through this peephole, he witnesses a stark parade of human behavior—adultery, theft, death, and other intimate moments—while contemplating their deeper meaning. As his voyeurism intensifies, he must confront what his observations reveal about life, humanity, and his own existence.