Author
Paul Bourget
1852-1935
Paul Bourget (1852-1935) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Paul Bourget
Le disciple
No description available.
La dame qui a perdu son peintre
"La dame qui a perdu son peintre" by Paul Bourget is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around themes of art, authenticity, and human relationships, exploring the world of art collectors, critics, and amateur enthusiasts. The narrative is framed through the experiences of a painter and his interactions with a charming woman, who seems to be at the center of an art-related conundrum. The opening of the novel presents a complex interplay of emotions and relationships. The narrator, who is a painter, reflects on his feelings for a captivating woman, interspersing memories of shared moments and performances with his artistic musings. As he contemplates his decision to leave Paris without saying goodbye, he recounts instances of jealousy and desire tied to her flirtations with others, particularly with a young man named Édouard de Bonnivet. The reader is introduced to a world where the authenticity of art pieces comes into contention, drawing parallels to the narrator's own feelings of inadequacy and longing related to the enigmatic woman. As he embarks on a journey to Milan, the stage is set for further revelations about love, loss, and the elusive nature of artistic genius.
Cosmopolis — Complete
"Cosmopolis — Complete" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores the intricacies of cosmopolitan life through its depiction of cultural interactions across a backdrop of European cities, with a particular focus on characters who embody modern dilemmas intertwined with traditional values. The narrative begins in Rome and introduces us to a variety of characters, spotlighting their connections to the themes of identity, belonging, and the impacts of financial and social upheaval. The opening of the novel presents a vivid scene in an old bookseller's shop, where regular customers interact with the eccentric merchant, Ribalta. Among them is Marquis de Montfanon, who engages with Ribalta in witty repartees while searching for valuable documents. This meeting sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the characters, including old political sentiments from the past, as Montfanon grapples with his feelings toward Baron Hafner's daughter, Fanny. The dialogue reveals Montfanon’s strong opinions about modernity and mixed heritage, hinting at underlying tensions related to relationships, social standing, and individual identity that permeate the cosmopolitan context of the story.
The weight of the name
"The Weight of the Name" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Landri de Claviers-Grandchamp, a young nobleman torn between his aristocratic upbringing and his passionate love for a widow named Valentine Olier. The book explores themes of love, class hierarchy, and personal identity against the backdrop of French society. At the start of the novel, Landri arrives at a clandestine meeting with Valentine, a woman he has loved silently for three years, despite their complex social circumstances. He grapples with his feelings and the pressure of his noble lineage while expressing his intent to propose to her. Valentine, though moved, reveals her own insecurities about their differing social statuses, ultimately refusing his proposal due to the potential implications of marrying a man of his name. This opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotional struggles and societal expectations, hinting at the larger conflicts that will unfold as their relationship develops.
A Tragic Idyl
"A Tragic Idyl" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book opens at the Casino of Monte Carlo during a bustling night, setting the stage for a rich tapestry of characters intertwined in a world of luxury, gambling, and social intrigue. Central to the story are a group of three individuals, including the Viscount de Corancez, who is orchestrating a secret marriage with the wealthy widow, Marquise Andryana Bonnacorsi, while a young man, Pierre Hautefeuille, is caught in a web of love and longing for another woman. The opening of "A Tragic Idyl" introduces readers to the chaotic and extravagant atmosphere of Monte Carlo's gaming houses, bustling with various characters from all walks of life, showcasing the contrasts of wealth and despair. The narrative cleverly weaves the plans for a clandestine marriage between Corancez and the Marquise amidst the bustling crowd, revealing the depth of their emotional stakes as well as Hautefeuille's hidden affection for the enchanting Baroness Ely de Carlsberg who remains oblivious to the turmoil her beauty inspires in him. As the story unfolds, the intricate dynamics and conflicts among these characters hint at the tragic idyls that will develop, juxtaposing their desires against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal ambitions.
Pastels: dix portraits de femmes
"Pastels: dix portraits de femmes" by Paul Bourget is a collection of literary sketches likely written in the late 19th century. This work explores the intricate lives and identities of various female characters, reflecting Bourget's keen observations of society and human nature. The initial focus seems to be on Gladys Harvey, a complex character whose interactions reveal the tensions of social class and the personal struggles within the Parisian elite. At the start of "Pastels," the narrative introduces Gladys Harvey through the voice of Claude Larcher, who observes the social dynamics in Paris amidst discussions about democracy and class distinctions. As Larcher reflects on the superficiality of social appearances, he recalls meeting Louis Servin, a young man entrenched in bourgeois aspirations and pretensions. The scene of a dinner with Gladys and other acquaintances unfolds, where Gladys's charm and mysterious backstory begin to emerge. She shares her past, including the influence of literature on her emotions and desires, highlighting her romanticized view of love, particularly towards the writer Jacques Molan, whom she has adored from afar. This opening sets the tone for an exploration of identity, aspiration, and the complexities of social interaction among women in a changing world.
Physiologie de l'amour moderne
"Physiologie de l'amour moderne" by Paul Bourget is a literary work written during the late 19th century. The book explores the complexities of love and relationships, particularly focusing on the emotional turmoil experienced by a character named Claude Larcher, who navigates the painful aftermath of heartbreak and infidelity. It provides a reflection on modern romantic relationships in a rapidly evolving societal landscape, shifting between philosophical musings and intimate musings on love. The opening of the work presents a preface that sets the stage for a collection of posthumous fragments left by Larcher. The narrator expresses a mix of admiration and concern for Larcher's writings, which are filled with personal reflections on his tumultuous love life, particularly regarding a woman named Colette Rigaud. As Larcher's feelings oscillate between love and profound resentment, the narrative hints at themes of jealousy, desire for vengeance, and the struggle to comprehend love's complex nature. He grapples with memories and visceral emotions, leading to analytical commentary on the state of love and relationships among contemporary society. The tone is introspective and contemplative, inviting readers into Larcher's troubled psyche.
A Living Lie
"A Living Lie" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story delves into the complexities of Parisian society, exploring themes of ambition, self-deception, and the intricate dynamics of human relationships. Central to the narrative are two writers: Claude Larcher, who navigates the world of high society with a mix of cynicism and introspection, and René Vincy, a young poet on the cusp of success seeking acceptance and validation in a glamorous yet superficial world. The beginning of the novel introduces Claude Larcher, a seasoned writer reflecting on his past and present as he journeys through a quaint corner of Paris to attend a soirée hosted by the fashionable Comtesse Komof. He is on his way to fetch René Vincy, his young colleague who has just achieved sudden fame with his play "Sigisbée." As Claude arrives at René's modest home, the narrative reveals the tension between their contrasting lives; Claude, a man deeply entrenched in society's frivolities, grapples with feelings of emptiness, while René's naiveté exposes him to the alluring dangers of their literary ambitions. The opening sets the stage for a poignant exploration of the interplay between artistic aspirations and societal expectations.
The Blue Duchess
"The Blue Duchess" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the artistic and emotional struggles of Vincent la Croix, as he navigates the intricacies of love and ambition amid a backdrop of artistic society in Paris. The central characters include the captivating actress Camille Favier, known as the Blue Duchess, and Jacques Molan, a self-absorbed writer entangled in a love affair with her, setting the stage for themes of desire, jealousy, and moral complexity. At the start of the narrative, Vincent reflects on his feelings of inadequacy and the looming shadows of his unfulfilled artistic ambitions as he celebrates another birthday. His mundane life is disrupted when he encounters Jacques Molan, who invites him to witness the success of a play featuring the enchanting Camille. As they interact, Vincent's admiration for Camille grows, juxtaposed against Jacques' egotistical charm. Their dinner conversation reveals significant dynamics between the characters, reflecting Jacques's manipulative tendencies and Camille’s genuine affection. The opening not only introduces the characters but also establishes a rich atmosphere of artistic rivalry and personal entanglement that promises to unfold throughout the novel.
Widger's Quotes and Images from Cosmopolis by Paul Bourget The French Immortals: Quotes And Images
"Widger's Quotes and Images from Cosmopolis by Paul Bourget" is a collection of quoted reflections and insights extracted from the novel "Cosmopolis" by Paul Bourget, likely compiled in the early 20th century. This book provides thought-provoking observations on themes such as love, existence, and the complexities of human relationships. It serves as a philosophical exploration rather than a straightforward narrative, delving into various aspects of modern life through Bourget's poignant quotes. The essence of "Cosmopolis" revolves around introspective reflections, captured in brief statements that encapsulate emotions and existential musings. Bourget's work touches on the nature of love—its transient qualities and emotional struggles—while also commenting on broader themes like personal identity and societal influences. Each quote serves as a piece of a larger mosaic of thought, inviting readers to contemplate essential questions about life, relationships, and the human condition, highlighting the melancholy and beauty found in the intersection of love and personal insight.
Nouveaux Pastels (Dix portraits d'hommes)
"Nouveaux Pastels (Dix portraits d'hommes)" by Paul Bourget is a collection of portraits, likely written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the intricacies of human character, presenting nuanced sketches that explore the personalities and lives of various men. Bourget's vivid descriptions and deep insights into psychological themes may appeal to readers interested in character studies and societal reflections of the time. At the start of the text, the narrator recounts his journey to Italy, motivated by the desire to reconnect with the artistic masterpieces he cherishes. Arriving in Pisa, he immerses himself in the beauty of local frescoes, particularly those by Benozzo Gozzoli and Orcagna. During his stay, he encounters two English women, Miss Mary Dobson and Miss Clara Roberts, who are diligently engaged in painting studies. As conversations unfold, the narrator becomes intrigued by the social dynamics and character traits of those around him, including a young, ambitious Frenchman named Philippe Dubois, who grapples with his aspirations as a writer amidst the backdrop of the Italian landscape. This initial chapter sets the stage for a deeper exploration of identity, ambition, and artistry against the rich tapestry of 19th-century Europe.
The disciple
"The Disciple" by Paul Bourget is a novel published in 1889. A young philosophy student applies his mentor's deterministic theories as a cold experiment on a nobleman's daughter, with tragic consequences. Inspired by a real murder case, this psychological thriller questions whether modern intellectuals bear responsibility when their ideas influence impressionable minds. The work marked Bourget's shift toward moral and Catholic themes, transforming a sensational crime story into a profound examination of science, faith, and the dangerous allure of treating human hearts as laboratory subjects.
A Love Crime
"A Love Crime" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores themes of love, fidelity, and betrayal through the lives of Helen Chazel and her husband Alfred, as well as her lover, Armand de Querne. It delves into the complexities of their relationships and the emotional turmoil they each face, particularly regarding Helen's inner conflict as she navigates her desires and obligations. The opening of the novel introduces the setting of a cozy drawing-room in a Parisian home and the dynamics of Helen's marriage to Alfred. We see Alfred's reluctance to attend social events and Helen's struggle with her neuralgia while attempting to fulfill her marital duties. The scene shifts as Armand arrives, revealing a flirtatious and passionate connection between him and Helen. She acknowledges her love for him but is torn by her responsibilities as a wife and mother. This tension sets the stage for the impending decisions that will profoundly impact their lives, hinting at the "love crime" that will unfold as Helen wrestles with her emotions and loyalty.
The Story of André Cornélis
"The Story of André Cornélis" by Paul Bourget is a literary novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers on André Cornélis, who embarks on a personal journey of reflection and confession following the traumatic events surrounding his father's mysterious murder. Struggling with his past and grappling with feelings of loss and resentment, the protagonist seeks to understand the tragedy that has defined his life. The opening of the novel introduces André Cornélis as he recounts his childhood memories of confession, evoking a sense of lost innocence. He vividly describes the oppressive atmosphere in the chapel of his school, where he wrested with shame and fear while preparing to confess his sins. This recollection is jarring as it leads into the dark truth of his father's death, which serves as the catalyst for André's deep-seated anguish. The narrative transitions through André's desperate need for answers regarding his father's demise, revealing the complex feelings he harbors towards his mother and the man who replaces his father. Writing becomes a means for him to confront the memories of his past, illustrating a powerful interplay between trauma, memory, and the search for understanding in a world that feels chaotic and indifferent.
A Cruel Enigma
"A Cruel Enigma" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores complex themes of love, desire, and the psychological intricacies of human relationships, particularly through the experiences of its main character, Hubert Liauran, and the women in his life, including the widows Madame Castel and Madame Liauran, along with Hubert's romantic entanglement with the married woman, Madame de Sauve. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to General Count Alexander Scilly, who reflects on his relationship with two widows, Madame Castel and Madame Liauran, and their shared concerns for their son, Hubert. As the narrative unfolds, Scilly grapples with the growing melancholy of the two women and their increasing preoccupation with Hubert's well-being. Hubert, meanwhile, is torn between his love for the widows who raised him and a passionate affair with Madame de Sauve, a married woman. The initial chapters set the stage for a deep psychological exploration of love's intricacies, societal pressures, and the internal conflicts of the characters, hinting at the moral and emotional complexities that will develop further in the story.
La duchesse bleue
"La Duchesse Bleue" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story seems to revolve around the complex interplay of love, ambition, and the artistic life, particularly focusing on the character of Camille Favier, a young actress navigating her career and relationships amidst the challenges of the theater world. Through the protagonist, the author explores themes of identity, emotional detachment, and the psychological experiences of artists. The opening of the novel sets the stage for the unfolding drama, introducing the narrator, Vincent La Croix, a painter who reflects on his uneventful life while recounting an unexpected adventure he has witnessed. He finds himself reflecting on his own aspirations and failures as he becomes embroiled in the lives of his more successful friends, particularly Jacques Molan, a playwright, and Camille Favier, who is described as the "Duchesse Bleue." Vincent's observations capture a blend of admiration and irony as he details the characters' interactions, revealing both the allure and the superficiality of their world. The narrative hints at the tensions that will arise from the emotional entanglements among these individuals, particularly as Vincent grapples with his own feelings of inadequacy and jealousy.
André Cornélis
"André Cornélis" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. It explores themes of memory, loss, and the inner turmoil of the main character, André, as he navigates the aftermath of his father's mysterious death and the profound changes in his family dynamics, particularly with his mother's remarriage to a man he cannot accept. The opening of the novel introduces us to André's somber reflections on his childhood, particularly the emotional weight of his father's death and his feelings of isolation and sorrow. We see him as a young boy haunted by memories, struggling to reconcile the traumatic events that have shaped his life. As he recalls the circumstances surrounding his father's death, including the confusion and fear he experienced, a sense of foreboding fills his thoughts about the future and the complicated relationship with his mother and her new husband, which he resents deeply. The narrative invites readers into André's world, marked by a poignant blend of nostalgia and unease as he seeks to confront personal demons and understand his fractured identity.
Cosmopolis — Volume 1
"Cosmopolis — Volume 1" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century, a time marked by a burgeoning interest in exploring modernity and the complexities of urban life. The narrative delves into the lives of cosmopolitan characters, intertwining themes of love, identity, and societal intricacies as they navigate a world shaped by diverse cultures and historical legacies. The opening of "Cosmopolis" introduces us to a curious scene in a dusty old bookshop in Rome, where we meet the eccentric bookseller Ribalta and the noble Marquis de Montfanon. Their interaction sparks discussions around literature, history, and the nature of society as Montfanon expresses disdain for the modern cosmopolitan way of life represented by figures like Baron Hafner and his daughter Fanny. Through their dialogue, we are introduced to a vibrant cast of characters that symbolize the tensions between tradition and modernity, particularly in relation to love and social status. As Montfanon grapples with his own prejudices and complex feelings towards Fanny, the stage is set for the unfolding drama that explores these themes further.
Un Coeur de femme
"Un Coeur de femme" by Paul Bourget is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the lives of women navigating complex societal expectations and relationships in Paris, particularly focusing on the character of Juliette, the widow of a war hero, and her close friend Gabrielle, the comtesse de Candale. The themes suggest an exploration of love, friendship, and the impact of personal histories on present choices. The opening of the novel introduces the aftermath of an accident that befalls Gabrielle as she rides in a carriage, setting a tone of urgency and disruption in her otherwise orderly world. The narrative quickly transitions to a depiction of the social dynamics among women of their class, as Gabrielle makes her way to visit her friend Juliette after the mishap. Through Gabrielle's inner thoughts, the reader becomes acquainted with her frustrations and desires, hinting at deeper emotional layers and unspoken connections between the characters. This segment also teases a budding complexity in Juliette's character, particularly her caution and curiosity regarding Casal, a man with a questionable reputation introduced through Gabrielle. The interplay of societal pressures and personal yearnings sets the stage for the unfolding narrative.
Cosmopolis — Volume 3
"Cosmopolis — Volume 3" by Paul Bourget is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, delving into complex themes of honor, love, jealousy, and the consequences of vengeance. At its center is the story of Florent Chapron, who finds himself embroiled in a duel that involves his sister Lydia, her estranged husband Boleslas Gorka, and the intriguing Madame Steno, highlighting the turbulent dynamics of romantic entanglements and familial loyalty. The opening of this installment introduces the escalating situation that leads to a duel. Florent, having inadvertently become entangled in the tumult arising from the actions of his sister Lydia and her husband Gorka, faces the impending confrontation with anxiety and preparation. Lydia is portrayed as a deeply conflicted character, torn by her feelings for her brother and her hatred for her husband. Meanwhile, Gorka's motivations are rooted in jealousy and revenge against those he feels have wronged him. As tensions mount and relationships unravel, the stakes become dire, with a duel threatening to intersect their fates. The narrative sets a stage rife with emotional depth and moral complexity, indicating a dramatic exploration of the burdens each character carries and the inevitable consequences of their actions.
L'eau profonde; Les pas dans les pas
"L'eau profonde; Les pas dans les pas" by Paul Bourget is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the complex emotional landscape of its characters, particularly focusing on Jeanne de La Node, a woman entangled in both her resentments and desires as she navigates relationships with her cousin Valentine and Valentine's husband, Norbert de Chaligny. Themes of jealousy, societal expectations, and the consequences of personal choices are likely to be explored throughout the narrative. The opening of the novel introduces us to the protagonist, Jeanne de La Node, as she witnesses an unexpected encounter in a grand Parisian department store with her cousin, Valentine de Chaligny. This chance meeting stirs up deep-seated feelings of envy and suspicion in Jeanne, prompting her to follow Valentine discreetly. As Jeanne grapples with her complex emotions—her own infidelity with Norbert juxtaposed with her cousin's perceived purity—we are given a glimpse into the intense psychological struggles that will unfold. The beginning sets the stage for a rich exploration of the intertwined lives of these characters, as their secrets and desires are slowly revealed within the opulent yet suffocating social fabric of Paris.
Cosmopolis — Volume 2
"Cosmopolis — Volume 2" by Paul Bourget is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The book centers around Julien Dorsenne, a novelist who becomes entangled in a complex web of personal relationships and social intrigues, particularly involving Countess Steno and Boleslas Gorka, as he grapples with themes of love, jealousy, and moral dilemmas. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dorsenne's troubled state of mind as he reflects on his interactions with Gorka, who has recently returned to Rome in a tumultuous emotional state. Dorsenne is pulled into a dilemma that questions his integrity and loyalty, especially regarding his relationships with the women involved. He observes the dynamics of their circle, filled with suspicion and unspoken tension, as he attempts to decipher the source of anonymous letters that have stirred jealousy and anxiety. As he prepares to confront the impending confrontation at a dinner hosted by Countess Steno, the atmosphere is charged with the potential for conflict, reflecting the intricate moral landscapes Bourget illustrates throughout the narrative.
Cosmopolis — Volume 4
"Cosmopolis — Volume 4" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story delves into the complex emotions and moral dilemmas faced by its characters, particularly focusing on Boleslas Gorka—a man deeply embroiled in themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for redemption. As he navigates his recent injuries from a duel, he grapples with jealousy and despair over a romantic past, attempting to make sense of his fractured relationships. The opening of the novel introduces us to Boleslas Gorka, who is recovering from a duel that left him with a broken arm. His thoughts reveal a tumultuous emotional landscape as he contemplates his grievances against those who have wronged him. Boleslas's frustration is exacerbated by the realization that his wife, Maud, has left him amid their crisis, and he struggles under the weight of his jealousy when he learns of her apparent indifference to his suffering. The narrative intricately portrays the intersections of love, resentment, and the societal expectations that bind the characters, hinting at deeper layers of conflict that set the tone for the unfolding drama.
Cruelle Énigme
"Cruelle Énigme" by Paul Bourget is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the intertwined lives and emotional complexities of its characters, particularly focusing on the connections between a retired general, Comte Alexandre Scilly, and two widows, Mme Castel and her daughter, Mme Liauran, as they navigate their familial relationships and individual struggles. Central themes likely include love, loss, and the societal changes of the time. The opening of "Cruelle Énigme" paints a vivid picture of the emotional landscape experienced by the characters. It begins with Comte Scilly reflecting on the poignant similarities between the older Mme Castel and her younger daughter, Liauran, and how these evoke a profound sense of melancholy in him. As he leaves after a visit, he senses an inexplicable sadness that permeates their lives, exacerbated by the worrying absence of their beloved son, Hubert. The general is filled with concern for the two women, indicating deeper narratives involving Hubert's struggles and the complexities of love and duty that will unfold as the novel progresses. This intricate tapestry of relationships sets the stage for a gripping exploration of human emotions and societal expectations.