Author
Théophile Gautier
1811-1872
Théophile Gautier (1811-1872) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Théophile Gautier
Mademoiselle de Maupin, Volume 1 (of 2)
"Mademoiselle de Maupin, Volume 1 (of 2)" by Théophile Gautier is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book explores themes of identity, love, and societal norms, centering around the intriguing character of Madeleine de Maupin, a woman seeking adventure and freedom within the constraints of her era. The story promises to intertwine romance and existential musings, suggesting a deep exploration of human desires and the societal expectations that often accompany them." The opening of "Mademoiselle de Maupin" introduces a narrator reflecting on their monotonous life filled with routine and an underlying yearning for adventure. Despite the habitual nature of their days, the narrator is deeply aware of their dissatisfaction and restlessness, yearning for the thrill of extraordinary experiences. They describe their lack of excitement and recount the experiences of their dull servant, who has traveled the world yet lacks the sensitivity to appreciate life. This contrast highlights the theme of longing for a more vibrant and adventurous existence, setting the stage for the exploration of identity and the pursuit of freedom that will unfold within the novel. The introspective tone invites readers to share in the narrator's reflections on life, ennui, and the quest for meaning against a backdrop of societal conventions.
Wanderings in Spain
"Wanderings in Spain" by Théophile Gautier is a travelogue written in the mid-19th century. In this work, Gautier recounts his journey through various regions of Spain, capturing the landscapes, cultures, and peculiarities he encounters along the way. The narrative is rich in detail and reflects the author's enthusiasm for observation, as he immerses himself in the sights and experiences of his travels. The opening of the narrative introduces Gautier as he departs from Paris for Spain, pressured by friends to make the journey and embark on an extended adventure. He describes the initial stages of his trip, traveling through France to Bordeaux, where he takes in local sights such as the Subterranean Dwellings and the Cathedral. He vividly depicts the landscapes, towns, and people he encounters, conveying both the charm and challenges of travel during that era. His observations blend humor, curiosity, and a keen eye for detail, setting the tone for his explorations in Spain.
Charles Baudelaire, His Life
"Charles Baudelaire, His Life" by Théophile Gautier is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book intimately explores the life, character, and artistic journey of the influential poet Charles Baudelaire, highlighting his unique personality and the profound impact of his work on modern poetry. The opening of the book sets the stage for an insightful exploration of Baudelaire's early life and the first impressions he made on his contemporaries. Gautier describes their first meeting in 1849, where Baudelaire, then an emerging talent, is depicted with distinct physical features and an aura of dandyism. The narrative delves into Baudelaire’s relationships with influential figures in the arts and his struggles with societal norms, which informed his later works. Gautier also touches on Baudelaire's admiration for beauty, his fascination with exotic experiences, and hints at his complex personality shaped by both his innocence and the darker elements of his art. This introduction promises a richly woven depiction of a man whose life was as tumultuous and passionate as the art he created.
Constantinople
"Constantinople" by Théophile Gautier is a travel account published in 1853. Based on Gautier's journey to Greece and Turkey in 1852-1853, the book chronicles his two-month stay in Constantinople. Through thirty chapters, Gautier explores the city's mosques, bazaars, whirling dervishes, Turkish baths, and palaces along the Bosphorus. His vivid observations capture the sights, sounds, and rhythms of Ottoman life, from Ramadan nights to the Sultan's processions, creating an immersive portrait of mid-nineteenth-century Constantinople.
The Romance of a Mummy and Egypt The Works of Theophile Gautier, Volume 5
"The Romance of a Mummy" by Théophile Gautier is a historical fiction novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative unfolds through the character of Lord Evandale, an English nobleman, and his companion Dr. Rumphius, who embark on an expedition to uncover the mysteries of an untouched Egyptian tomb in the valley of Biban el Molûk. As they delve into the excavation, the story promises to explore themes of love, adventure, and the allure of ancient Egyptian civilization against a backdrop of accurate historical detail. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to the discoveries and dynamics between Evandale and Rumphius, as they express hope for finding an untouched tomb amidst the lore of treasure hunting. Their interaction with Argyropoulos, a Greek guide, sets the tone for an adventure filled with intrigue and the promise of uncovering the secrets held within ancient walls. The narrative creates a vivid atmosphere, with detailed descriptions of the valley and the impending discoveries, highlighting both the excitement and reverence that come with unlocking the mysteries of the past. As the excavation progresses, so does the anticipation surrounding what treasures or secrets the tomb may hold, driving the reader to delve deeper into this exotic world.
Les Dieux et les Demi-Dieux de la Peinture
"Les Dieux et les Demi-Dieux de la Peinture" by Gautier, Houssaye, and Saint-Victor is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The text serves as an analysis and appreciation of twelve iconic figures in art history, specifically focusing on prominent painters and their pursuit of beauty. The authors attempt to frame these illustrious artists within a pantheon, celebrating their contributions to the world of painting. The opening of the work introduces the concept of portraying renowned painters not merely as individuals but as divine figures in the realm of art. It elaborates on the historical context of artistic achievement, emphasizing the shift from the "dark ages" to the Renaissance. The discussion sets the stage for specific analysis, beginning with Leonardo da Vinci. The authors highlight da Vinci's multifaceted genius, his profound understanding of nature, and his innovative approaches to art. They also touch upon his legacy, illustrating how his work still resonates today while acknowledging the ephemeral nature of artistic endeavors.
Le capitaine Fracasse
"Le capitaine Fracasse" by Théophile Gautier is a swashbuckling novel published in 1863. The story follows the impoverished Baron de Sigognac, who lives in his crumbling manor until he falls for Isabelle, a young actress. He joins her theater troupe and adopts the stage name "Captain Fracasse." When a ruthless duke becomes his rival for Isabelle's affections, Sigognac must face duels, assassins, and a kidnapping to protect the woman he loves.
Honoré de Balzac
"Honoré de Balzac" by Théophile Gautier is a biographical account written in the mid-19th century. The work explores the life and character of the influential French novelist Honoré de Balzac, known for his extensive collection of interconnected stories titled "La Comédie Humaine." The narrative unveils Balzac's journey, his struggles with writing, and his deep commitment to depicting the society and human condition of his time. The opening of the book introduces us to the author’s memories of Balzac during the early years of their friendship around 1835. Gautier recalls their first meeting, an encounter marked by Balzac's warm demeanor and distinctive appearance, including his unique white cashmere robe. This introductory passage illustrates Balzac's deep introspection about his writing and reveals his dedication and the striving for perfection in his craft. It also brings to light his complicated relationship with the literary scene of the time, portraying a genius wrestling with the expectations and standards imposed by contemporaries while simultaneously establishing his own path as a monumental figure in literature.
Captain Fracasse
"Captain Fracasse" by Théophile Gautier is a novel published in 1863. Set in seventeenth-century France during Louis XIII's reign, it follows a destitute baron who abandons his crumbling castle to join a traveling theater troupe, driven by love for a young actress. When an actor dies, the nobleman assumes the stage role of Captain Fracasse, a bumbling military character. Through this humbling experience, he must reconcile his aristocratic pride with his new theatrical life while seeking the king's aid in Paris.
Clarimonde
"Clarimonde" by Théophile Gautier is a short story published in 1836. A young priest named Romuald encounters a beautiful woman on his ordination day, igniting a forbidden passion that conflicts with his religious vows. When he later discovers she is a vampire, he faces an impossible choice between his sacred duties and his deepest desires. This Gothic tale explores the boundaries between life and death, dream and reality, as Romuald lives a double existence torn between two irreconcilable worlds.
One of Cleopatra's Nights and Other Fantastic Romances
"One of Cleopatra's Nights and Other Fantastic Romances" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of fantasy short stories translated by Lafcadio Hearn and first published in 1882. These tales blend romance, horror, and the supernatural, transporting readers through exotic worlds of ancient Egypt, vampire seductions, and encounters with mummies. Gautier's stories explore dangerous passions and uncanny meetings between the living and the dead, painting vivid fantasies that captivated nineteenth-century readers and inspired numerous adaptations for opera and television.
Émaux et Camées
"Émaux et Camées" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century. The work reflects Gautier's artistic aesthetics, combining themes of beauty, art, and sensuality throughout various pieces. The poems explore seductive images and metaphors, invoking a rich interplay of emotions and visual art that captivate the reader. The opening of "Émaux et Camées" features a preface where the author expresses his intent to create art reminiscent of the classics while immersing himself in the beauty and isolation of creativity. Gautier draws parallels between his creative process and the works of great poets like Goethe, suggesting that art can flourish even amidst turmoil. Following this, the first poem introduces a theme of timeless beauty and desire, showcasing the allure of feminine forms and seductive imagery, setting the tone for the poems to come in this elegant collection.
King Candaules
"King Candaules" by Théophile Gautier is a historical novella written in the late 19th century. Set in ancient Lydia before the Trojan War, the story revolves around the exploits of King Candaules and his obsession with displaying the beauty of his wife, Queen Nyssia. The narrative explores themes of desire, jealousy, and the boundaries of intimacy as Candaules devises a plan that fundamentally alters the dynamics of love and honor. The opening of the tale establishes the atmosphere of anticipation surrounding a grand festival in Sardes, where Candaules is set to marry Nyssia, the daughter of a satrap. As the festivities unfold, we are introduced to Gyges, the king's chief guard, whose life becomes enmeshed in the intrigue of the royal family. Candaules, captivated by Nyssia's beauty, recounts her unmatched allure to Gyges and eventually reveals his desire to show her to him in a moment of intimacy. As Gyges grapples with the moral implications of witnessing Nyssia's nudity, the narrative heightens its tension, foreshadowing conflict and the complex interplay of admiration, possession, and betrayal that will follow.
Victor Hugo
"Victor Hugo" by Théophile Gautier is a literature-focused memoir written in the early 20th century. The text reflects on the life and impact of Victor Hugo, framed within the context of the Romantic literary movement in France. It particularly highlights the tumultuous atmosphere surrounding the first performances of Hugo's plays, especially "Hernani," and the passionate debates between the Romantic and classical schools. The opening of the memoir immerses readers in the vibrant literary landscape of 1830 Paris, a period characterized by creative effervescence and the resurgence of poetry and art. Gautier recalls excitement and fervor as young artists and poets rallied around Hugo’s works, eagerly anticipating the premiere of "Hernani." With vivid descriptions, he paints a picture of his youthful ambitions, the camaraderie among artists in their struggle against classical norms, and their overwhelming admiration for Hugo, whom they regarded as a champion of their cause. As Gautier navigates his experiences leading up to and during the revolutionary premiere, he conveys the intense emotions of both anticipation and fear that defined that pivotal moment in literary history.
Voyage en Espagne
"Voyage en Espagne" by Théophile Gautier is a travel book first published in 1843. The work recounts the author's journey through the Iberian Peninsula in 1840, accompanied by art collector Eugène Piot. An example of literary Romanticism and the Orientalist wave of its era, the book offers rich descriptions of Spanish landscapes. Gautier praises the south, particularly Andalusia, while depicting the Meseta as barren and uncultivated. Heat emerges as a recurring element in his characterization of the country, reaching its peak in his chapter on Toledo.
Poésies Complètes - Tome 1
"Poésies Complètes - Tome 1" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of poetry written in the early 19th century. This volume serves as a comprehensive anthology of Gautier's poetic works, capturing the essence of his Romantic sensibilities and artistic explorations. The collection delves into themes such as love, nature, beauty, and the passage of time, reflecting Gautier's observations and emotional insights throughout his life. The opening of this work features an introduction that sets the stage for the poetry to come. Gautier describes himself as a reclusive individual, preferring the comfort of familiar surroundings and the company of close friends. He acknowledges the changing nature of existence and the fleeting beauty found in art, expressing a desire to share his poetic creations with those who may find solace in them during tumultuous times. The initial poems present intimate reflections on nature, love, youth, and the aesthetics of life, creating a serene and contemplative mood that invites the reader to linger within the verses.
Les Jeunes-France: romans goguenards; suivis de Contes humoristiques
"Les Jeunes-France: romans goguenards; suivis de Contes humoristiques" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of humorous narratives likely written in the late 19th century. This work adopts a playful and satirical tone, exploring themes of love, virtue, and the follies of society through the lens of various characters, notably the protagonist Roderick who navigates the complexities of romance and societal expectations. The opening of the book introduces readers to a whimsical and introspective preface where Gautier discusses the nature of prefaces themselves. He presents Roderick, a self-deprecating and somewhat disillusioned character, who describes his experiences with women and the monotony of his existence. As the narrative unfolds, we glimpse Roderick’s interactions with his friend Théodore and their reflections on love, virtue, and the absurdities of social conventions. The tone is light yet reflective, establishing a framework for the humorous and insightful tales that will follow in the collection.
My household of pets
"My Household of Pets" by Théophile Gautier is a charming collection of anecdotes and reflections on various animals that the author has kept as companions in his life. Written in the late 19th century, the book reflects on Gautier's experiences with pets, particularly focusing on his love for cats, dogs, and other small creatures. It delves into themes of companionship, loyalty, and the unique personalities of each animal, ultimately celebrating the bond between humans and their pets. In this delightful narrative, Gautier recounts his childhood memories and the many pets that have shared his life, from the false Cagnotte, a dog that initially deceived him, to the elegant white cats Pierrot and Seraphita, capturing their individual quirks and the affection he felt for them. The stories explore each pet's characteristics and antics, highlighting their interactions with the author and the impact they had on his upbringing. The work is rich in humor and warmth, offering readers a heartfelt glimpse into the joys of pet ownership, while also serving as a reflection on how these animals have molded the author's identity and his understanding of love and companionship.
The Mummy's Foot
"The Mummy's Foot" by Théophile Gautier is a horror short story first published in 1840. A man purchases a mummified foot from a Parisian curiosity shop, intending to use it as a paperweight. That night, the foot's original owner—an ancient Egyptian princess—appears with a supernatural demand. What follows is a fantastical journey across time and space, where the boundaries between dream and reality blur mysteriously.
Enamels and Cameos and other Poems
"Enamels and Cameos" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of poems written during the mid to late 19th century. This anthology encompasses a wide variety of themes, ranging from the beauty of nature and love to reflections on art and mortality. Gautier, known for his contributions to the Romantic literary movement, intricately weaves emotion and vivid imagery throughout his work, showcasing his fascination with beauty in all its forms. The poems in "Enamels and Cameos" reveal a profound engagement with aesthetic experience and the transience of life. In pieces like "The Poem of Woman" and "Symphony in White Major," Gautier explores the themes of beauty and desire, often personifying natural elements and employing rich metaphorical language. The collected works evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia and loss in "Nostalgia of the Obelisks" to the joyous celebration of life in "Spring's First Smile." Overall, the poems reflect a deep appreciation for the sensory experiences of life, encapsulated in the elegant beauty of Gautier's verse.
Romans et contes
"Romans et contes" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of fiction works likely written in the late 19th century. The opening narrative introduces Octave de Saville, a young man who suffers from a mysterious ailment, slowly consuming him despite appearing outwardly healthy. The likely exploration of themes in the book revolves around love, despair, and the contrasts between vitality and melancholy. At the start of "Romans et contes," we meet Octave de Saville, who is seemingly perfectly healthy yet is plagued by an inexplicable affliction that causes him to feel increasingly detached from life. As he undergoes various attempts at treatment that yield no results, it is revealed that his struggle is more psychological than physical—he experiences a deep existential despair, feeling drained and disconnected from joy. The arrival of Dr. Balthazar Cherbonneau promises a different approach, suggesting that Octave's ailment stems from a lack of will to live, hinting at an intriguing interplay between mind and body, and setting up a narrative rich in emotional complexity and depth.
Poésies Complètes - Tome 2
"Poésies Complètes - Tome 2" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century. This volume explores themes of love, beauty, mortality, and the human condition through evocative language and imagery. The poems reflect the author's romantic sensibilities and delve into the complexities of life and death, often drawing on nature and philosophical reflections. The opening of the volume introduces a poignant exploration of death through rich imagery and metaphors. It begins with a metaphorical structure likening the creation of poetry to the construction of tombs, suggesting that each poem serves as a monument to the buried emotions and ideas within the poet's soul. Specifically, it describes the scene in a cemetery where people mourn and honor their deceased loved ones, contrasting this with the poet's meditation on forgotten graves and the longing for remembrance. As the poet wanders through the graveyard, a sense of profound sadness and contemplation emerges, questioning the nature of existence and the silence of the departed, setting a hauntingly reflective tone for the poems that follow.
Mademoiselle de Maupin, Volume 2 (of 2)
"Mademoiselle de Maupin, Volume 2" by Théophile Gautier is a novel written in the late 19th century." This work intricately explores themes of love, identity, and beauty through the passionate and tumultuous inner monologues of its protagonist, Madelaine de Maupin, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. As she disguises herself as a man named Théodore, she navigates societal expectations and her feelings for a young man, sparking a profound internal conflict. At the start of this volume, Madelaine reflects on her intense love for a young man named Théodore, grappling with her emotions and the realization that her feelings go beyond mere friendship. Through poignant self-examination, she conveys her admiration for Théodore's beauty while revealing her struggle with societal norms surrounding love and attraction. Amidst her emotional turmoil, she acknowledges her own identity as a woman and the limitations imposed by society, setting the stage for her transformative journey as she leaves her past behind to explore life from a male perspective. This opening encapsulates themes of passion and the quest for authenticity, engaging readers with both its lyrical prose and underlying philosophical inquiries.
My Private Menagerie from The Works of Theophile Gautier Volume 19
"My Private Menagerie" by Théophile Gautier is a collection of autobiographical essays written in the mid-19th century. This charming work centers around the author's deep love for animals, especially cats and dogs, and reflects on the unique bonds forged between humans and their pets. Through vivid anecdotes, Gautier explores themes of companionship, loyalty, and the bittersweet nature of life with animals. In the book, Gautier recounts various experiences with the pets that shared his life, conveying their personalities and quirks with affection and humor. He introduces readers to notable companions like Cagnotte, his childhood dog, and a succession of cats including the aristocratic Don Pierrot and the enigmatic Eponine. Each animal is given a distinctive characterization, with evocative descriptions of their quirks and interactions. The narrative is woven with moments of joy, tragedy, and reflection on mortality, revealing the impact these beloved companions had on the author's life. Gautier’s observations give insight into the companionship that pets provide, alongside an exploration of the transient nature of their lives compared to humans.