Author
Alphonse Daudet
1840-1897
Alphonse Daudet (1840-1897) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Alphonse Daudet
The Nabob
"The Nabob" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written during the late 19th century. It explores themes of social ambition, cultural identity, and the stark contrasts between wealth and common life in Paris. The main character, Bernard Jansoulet, is a wealthy and naïve adventurer from Tunisia, often referred to as the "Nabob," whose rise to affluence in Paris places him in a complex social milieu filled with both admiration and disdain. The opening of "The Nabob" introduces Dr. Robert Jenkins, a fashionable Irish physician well-known in Paris, who interacts with various high-society characters. As he prepares for dinner at the Nabob's lavish house, the narrative presents a lush description of Parisian life and introduces Jansoulet, who is filled with pride over his newfound status but is also critiqued for his ignorance of the societal intricacies surrounding him. The text immediately sets up the contrasts in character and class within this elite social circle, foreshadowing Jansoulet's struggles as he navigates the expectations of his peers while trying to retain his authentic self amidst the superficialities of high society.
Numa Roumestan
"Numa Roumestan" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Numa Roumestan, a prominent politician and local hero in the town of Aps in Provence, who is adored by the population due to his charismatic presence and political influence. The narrative explores themes of ambition, identity, and the contrasts between provincial life and the complexities of city politics, particularly through the lens of Roumestan's character and his interactions with his family and constituents. The opening of the novel transports the reader to a vibrant summer festival in the ancient amphitheater of Aps, where thousands gather to celebrate Numa Roumestan's arrival. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as villagers from various backgrounds cheer for their illustrious representative. Roumestan basks in the adoration, though his wife Rosalie appears less engaged and struggles to adapt to the fervor of her husband's supporters. In this lively and animated scene, we are introduced to both the grandeur of Roumestan’s public persona and the subtle undercurrents of personal discontent within his family life, setting the stage for the complex dynamics that will unfold throughout the story.
Le Petit Chose (Histoire d'un Enfant)
"Le Petit Chose (Histoire d'un Enfant)" by Alphonse Daudet is a semi-autobiographical novel written in the late 19th century. The story chronicles the formative years of Daniel Eyssette (the titular “Petit Chose”), a delicate and imaginative boy growing up in a family that has fallen into hardship. Central to the narrative are his struggles with poverty, the disintegration of his family's factory, and his aspirations for a brighter future as he embarks on a journey of personal and literary development. At the start of the work, we meet Daniel as he reflects on his childhood in the Languedoc region, marked by both innocent joys and impending misfortune. His family, once prosperous, faces a series of calamities that lead to their ruin, causing Daniel to abandon his cherished childhood home. The opening portion introduces key family members, particularly his brother Jacques, as they navigate the hardships that follow their father's failed business and the subsequent move to Lyon. Daudet vividly illustrates Daniel's internal world—with his fantasies of adventure echoing his struggles with self-identity and the painful complexities of growing up under challenging circumstances.
Tartarin de Tarascon
"Tartarin de Tarascon" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in 1872. In the Provençal town of Tarascon, hunting enthusiasm has driven away all game, leaving residents to shoot at their own caps. When middle-aged Tartarin reacts excitedly to seeing a lion in a menagerie, the town mistakenly believes he plans an Algerian hunting expedition. To save face, he embarks on an absurd adventure armed with excessive equipment, encountering con artists and misadventures before returning home penniless yet celebrated.
La arlesiana : $b Drama en tres actos y cinco cuadros
No description available.
Fromont and Risler — Complete
"Fromont and Risler — Complete" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written during the late 19th century, specifically in the context of the Naturalism movement in literature. The narrative centers around the lives of characters intertwined in the world of Parisian bourgeoisie, particularly focusing on Risler, a self-made and honest man, and Sidonie, his young and charming bride. The story explores themes of ambition, social class, and the complexities of human relationships as it unfolds against the backdrop of their wedding festivities and the societal structures that influence their lives. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the joyful yet emotionally charged scenes at Risler's wedding. As Risler celebrates his newfound happiness amidst friends and family at a lavish cafe, he reflects on the day’s events with overwhelming joy, particularly the presence of his bride Sidonie and her mother. However, hints of underlying tensions and unspoken concerns emerge when he interacts with various guests, including his partner Georges Fromont, who seems to have a complicated connection with Sidonie. Through a vivid depiction of characters' emotions and the dynamics of social hierarchy, Daudet sets the stage for the complex interplay of love, ambition, and societal expectations that will shape Risler's and Sidonie's lives moving forward.
Artists' Wives
"Artists' Wives" by Alphonse Daudet is a work of fiction, likely written in the late 19th century. The book explores the complexities of marriage and the artistic life, centering around different artists and their relationships with their wives. Through a series of vignettes, it delves into the unique challenges and misunderstandings faced by these couples, revealing the often divergent worlds of artists and their spouses. The opening of the book introduces a conversation between a poet and a painter as they discuss the notion of marriage and its impact on artistic creation. The painter argues against marriage, suggesting that it can degrade a man's talent, citing examples of unhappy artist couples. Meanwhile, the poet sees the joys of family life and the nurturing spirit of a wife as essential to overcoming the trials of an artist's solitude. This dialogue sets the tone for the exploration of various artistic relationships that will unfold, framed by the characters' differing perspectives on happiness, creativity, and the societal expectations that bind them.
Tartarin of Tarascon
"Tartarin of Tarascon" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in 1872. In the Provençal town of Tarascon, hunters are so enthusiastic that no game remains. When plump middle-aged Tartarin reacts excitedly to a caged lion, the town mistakes this as commitment to an African hunting expedition. To save face, he must go. Armed with absurd equipment and infinite gullibility, Tartarin stumbles through Algeria encountering conmen and misadventures, ultimately returning home penniless but celebrated after shooting a tame, blind lion.
The Nabob, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"The Nabob, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the character of Paul de Géry, the titular Nabob, who experiences the lavish life in Paris following his wealth accumulated abroad. The book offers a portrayal of societal nuances, the wealthy elite of the time, and the complexities of human relationships within this backdrop. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Dr. Jenkins, a fashionable physician navigating through the opulent world of his wealthy patients in Paris. His encounters with the elite reveal a society consumed by appearances and wealth, as he prepares for a breakfast at the house of the Nabob, who has recently gained attention in the city. The reader glimpses the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, as well as Jenkins' complex relationships with his patients, alluding to the broader themes of societal critique and character dynamics that will unfold throughout the story.
The Immortal; Or, One of the "Forty." (L'immortel) - 1877
"The Immortal; Or, One of the 'Forty.'" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Léonard Astier-Réhu, a historian and member of the Académie Française, as he navigates the complexities of his family life, his literary ambitions, and societal expectations in Paris. This exploration offers insights into themes of ambition, familial obligations, and the contrasts between personal desires and public perception. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the life of Léonard Astier-Réhu, who has resigned from his esteemed position as the Keeper of the Archives due to political pressures. The opening chapters depict the struggles of his family, particularly his son Paul, who is an ambitious architect facing financial difficulties amid their hollow domestic life. The dynamics between Léonard and his wife, Madame Astier, showcase a strained relationship marked by unfulfilled expectations and mutual sacrifices for their son. The narrative illustrates the themes of ambition and societal pressures, setting the stage for the unfolding drama in the lives of the Astier family and their connections to the elite circles of Parisian society.
Lettres de mon moulin
"Lettres de mon moulin" by Alphonse Daudet is a collection of short stories first published in 1869. Set in Provence, these tales capture the landscapes, characters, and folklore of southern France through vivid storytelling. The collection grew from stories originally published in Parisian newspapers during the 1860s, though questions arose about collaboration with writer Paul Arène. From legendary mules and stubborn goats to village priests and lighthouse keepers, these stories blend humor, nostalgia, and regional charm into enduring portraits of Provençal life.
Letters from My Windmill
"Letters from My Windmill" by Alphonse Daudet is a collection of short stories published in 1869. Written in first person, these tales follow the author's move from Paris to Provence, where he recounts bucolic stories of southern French life, local folktales, and journeys to Corsica and Algeria. The stories blend pity, tenderness, and sadness with gaiety and mockery, painting an affectionate portrait of Provençal culture. Considered by many to be Daudet's most important work, this collection remains beloved in France.
Contes de lundi
"Contes de lundi" by Alphonse Daudet is a collection of short stories published in 1873. Inspired by the Franco-Prussian War, these tales paint realistic portraits of life during that turbulent period: Parisians enduring hardship, the Paris Commune uprising, and brutal government repression. The most famous story, "La Dernière Classe," captures the profound sadness of losing Alsace-Lorraine to Germany. The collection also explores colonial Algeria and how distant French territories were affected by the war's aftermath.
Robert Helmont: Diary of a Recluse, 1870-1871
"Robert Helmont: Diary of a Recluse, 1870-1871" by Alphonse Daudet is a semi-autobiographical novel set in the late 19th century. The narrative follows Robert Helmont, a man confined to his hermitage due to a broken leg while war rages nearby, reflecting on his isolation and the broader implications of the conflict. The text explores themes of solitude, the impact of war, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The opening of the novel introduces us to Robert Helmont as he becomes immobilized after a leg injury coinciding with the declaration of war in France. As he recuperates, he describes the tension and fear surrounding him, illustrated by the deserted village he lives in and the ominous presence of approaching enemies. The young protagonist feels a deep longing for action while grappling with the realities of his condition. Through his observations of nature and the experiences of those around him, readers are immediately drawn into his world, filled with melancholy yet hopeful reflections on life amidst turmoil.
Tartarin sur les Alpes
"Tartarin sur les Alpes" by Alphonse Daudet is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the character of Tartarin, a larger-than-life hero from Tarascon, as he embarks on a journey to the Swiss Alps, driven by ambition and fantasies of adventure. It explores themes of bravery, folly, and the intersection of imagination with reality, often highlighting the humorous discrepancies between the protagonist’s grand aspirations and his actual experiences. The opening of "Tartarin sur les Alpes" introduces us to Tartarin as he arrives at the Rigi-Kulm, a luxurious hotel perched atop the Alps. The scene is marked by an atmosphere of curiosity and spectacle as tourists gaze out at the swirling snow and mist. Tartarin himself is depicted in an exaggerated manner, appearing initially as a medieval archer before revealing his true nature as an affable but bumbling alpinist. His interactions with other hotel guests set a comically tense backdrop, with the dinner table split between factions as they eye each other's culinary choices, namely rice and prunes. This initial segment really establishes the book's satirical tone, showcasing Tartarin's uncanny ability to both charm and confound those around him, setting the stage for the adventures and misadventures that lie ahead.
Tartarin on the Alps
"Tartarin on the Alps" by Alphonse Daudet is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century. This work follows the adventures of Tartarin, a larger-than-life character who embodies the spirit of his hometown, Tarascon, known for its imaginative and boastful inhabitants. The story begins with Tartarin's misadventures in the Swiss Alps, highlighting themes of bravado and the clash between reality and fantasy as he engages with fellow tourists and prepares for an ascent. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a fog-shrouded evening at the Rigi-Kulm hotel, where tourists gather for dinner, fixated on the novelty of their surroundings. Among them is Tartarin, a rotund man cloaked in the garb of an Alpinist, who becomes the center of attention due to his unusual attire and exuberant demeanor. While he attempts to fit in and navigate the challenges of dining and engaging with other guests, he is met with a mix of confusion and disdain. The scene unfolds with comedic interactions that set the tone for Tartarin's escapades, while his aspirations to conquer the Alps ignite a humorous exploration of his character and existential musings on fame, identity, and recognition in a foreign land.
The Nabob, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"The Nabob, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in the late 19th century. This engaging story revolves around Bernard Jansoulet, the titular Nabob, as he navigates the complexities of Parisian society after his rise to prominence. The narrative explores themes of ambition, social status, and the interplay between personal and public life. The opening of the second volume begins on a bleak rainy day in Paris, where Felicia, a talented artist, grapples with feelings of ennui and dissatisfaction as her recent works are met with disinterest. Despite the dreary backdrop, her spirit is lifted by the arrival of Paul de Géry, with whom she shares a complicated friendship. Their interactions reflect the melancholy of artistic ambition and the quest for approval in a competitive environment. Felicia's internal struggle is juxtaposed with Jansoulet's burgeoning political career, as the narrative hints at the curiosity and envy he elicits from his peers. The excerpt sets the stage for a rich exploration of character dynamics and societal commentaries throughout the rest of the volume.
Fromont and Risler — Volume 2
"Fromont and Risler — Volume 2" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story delves into the complexities of relationships, ambition, and societal pressures as it follows the lives of Claire Fromont, her friend Sidonie, and their husbands, Georges Fromont and Risler. The narrative captures the nuances of jealousy and social ambition, particularly as Sidonie navigates her new life married to Risler while grappling with her feelings for Georges. The opening of the novel introduces the tension between Claire and Sidonie, highlighting Claire's confusion over Sidonie's changing demeanor as their friendship shifts under the strain of jealousy and ambition. Claire, busy with motherhood and familial responsibilities, is uneasily aware of Sidonie's growing ambition to rise socially, which complicates their relationship. Sidonie, feeling out of place among Claire's social circle, reflects on her past and her current desires, caught in the conflict between her insecurity and her aspirations. As both women struggle with their personal circumstances and ambitions, the stage is set for a story filled with emotional entanglements and societal critique.
Fromont and Risler — Volume 1
"Fromont and Risler — Volume 1" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel set in the late 19th century, embodying themes of social aspiration, love, and the complexities of class dynamics in Parisian life. The story primarily revolves around Risler, an honest and hardworking man who has recently married a charming woman named Sidonie Chebe. The narrative intricately explores Risler's joy at his wedding, his naive perception of his marriage, and the societal expectations and pressures that begin to surround him. The opening of the novel establishes a festive atmosphere at Risler's wedding reception at Café Vefour, where he is overwhelmed by joy but also begins to sense the underlying tensions among the guests. While Risler revels in his happiness and admiration for his bride Sidonie, his thoughts occasionally drift to his business partner Georges Fromont, who shares an enigmatic connection with Sidonie. As the evening unfolds, the subtle layers of social status and rivalry, particularly highlighted by the contrasting worlds of the Fromonts and the Chebes, start to emerge, hinting at potential conflict and drama in the developments ahead. This introduction sets the stage for an exploration of ambition, love, and the weight of societal expectations.
Widger's Quotes and Images from Fromont and Risler by Alphonse Daudet The French Immortals: Quotes and Images
"Widger's Quotes and Images from Fromont and Risler by Alphonse Daudet" is a collection of quotes and excerpts taken from the novel "Fromont and Risler" by the French author Alphonse Daudet, written during the late 19th century. This book serves as a reflection of the societal norms and conflicts of the time, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the struggles of working-class life against a backdrop of social aspirations. "Fromont and Risler" revolves around two main characters, Fromont and Risler, and their experiences in the context of a rapidly evolving Parisian society. The story exposes the tensions between personal ambition and social expectations, showcasing the characters' relationships and their pursuits of love and success. Through a poignant narrative, Daudet captures the complexities of human emotions, societal expectations, and the bittersweet nature of ambition, often revealing deep insights into the characters' aspirations and disappointments. The book highlights both the humorous and tragic aspects of life, making it a reflective exploration of the era's socio-economic challenges.
Fromont and Risler — Volume 4
"Fromont and Risler — Volume 4" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written during the late 19th century, part of the broader literary tradition reflecting on human emotions, relationships, and social dynamics. It delves into themes of betrayal, personal sacrifice, and the complexities of love as it follows the lives of its central characters, particularly Risler, a devoted employee whose world is turned upside down by the actions of his wife, Sidonie, and his partner, Georges Fromont. The opening of this volume sets a somber and dramatic tone, outlining the consequences of betrayal and emotional turmoil. Risler, after successfully unveiling his new invention, returns home on a cold night to find the atmosphere heavy with unspoken tensions, marked by a ball occurring in the next room that contrasts sharply with his concerns. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Georges is suffering a nervous breakdown brought on by guilt and fear of exposure, while Sidonie's actions have led to devastating consequences for Risler. The scene captures the intricate relationships between the characters, introduced amid a backdrop of personal and professional crises that paints a vivid picture of their struggles and the collapsing facade of their once harmonious lives.
L'Immortel Moeurs parisiennes
"L'Immortel" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel centered on the fictional world surrounding the French Academy. The story follows the Astier-Réhu family's relentless pursuit of academic prestige and social advancement through manipulation, strategic marriages, and high-society connections. When Professor Léonard Astier-Réhu's collection of historical autographs—the foundation of his scholarly reputation—is exposed as fraudulent, his carefully constructed world begins to crumble. The novel explores ambition, corruption, and the price of immortality in France's elite intellectual circles.
Jack 1877
"Jack" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Jack, who is on the verge of being sent away to a boarding school. The novel explores themes of abandonment, identity, and the complex relationship between a mother, Ida de Barancy, and her son amidst the societal expectations of Parisian life. At the start of the book, Jack and his mother are introduced as they meet with a priest to discuss Jack's upcoming education at a Jesuit institution. The opening chapters depict Ida's struggles with her social standing and the impression she wishes to create while simultaneously highlighting Jack's emotional turmoil about leaving his mother. The setting shifts from the school to the world outside, revealing the contrasting lives of the boarding school's children, hinting at Jack's new challenges. As the narrative progresses, the complexities of their lives unfold, setting the tone for a deeper exploration of Jack's character and experiences in the environment he finds himself in.
Sapho
"Sapho" by Alphonse Daudet is a novel published in 1884. When young civil servant Jean Gaussin meets the pleasure-seeking Fanny Legrand at a Parisian costume party, he's quickly drawn into a passionate relationship. Their unconventional affair unfolds across five turbulent years, marked by Jean's struggles between desire and respectability, Fanny's complicated past, and the unpredictable emotional currents that pull them together and apart. This tale explores timeless conflicts between love, social expectations, and personal choice in nineteenth-century Paris.