Subject
French fiction -- History and criticism Books
Best books
George Saintsbury
A History of the French Novel, Vol. 2 To the Close of the 19th Century
"A History of the French Novel, Vol. 2" by George Saintsbury is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume covers the evolution of the French novel from 1800 to 1900, examining key authors, movements, and styles that shaped the literary landscape during this period. Saintsbury delves into the contributions of prominent figures, including Madame de Staël, Chateaubriand, and Balzac, discussing their narrative techniques and thematic explorations that illustrate the rich tapestry of French literature. The opening of this volume sets the stage for a detailed analysis of key transitional figures in the French novel, particularly focusing on Madame de Staël and Chateaubriand. Saintsbury reflects on the significance of their works, such as Staël's "Delphine" and "Corinne," emphasizing the change from "sensibility" to more modern forms of storytelling. He critiques Staël's narratives for their lack of humor and coherence while acknowledging her influence in shifting the literary focus of her time. By positioning these writers in the context of their historical and cultural milieu, Saintsbury begins to unpack the complexities of the French novel's development, underscoring the interactions between personal experience and broader literary trends.
George Saintsbury
A History of the French Novel, Vol. 1 From the Beginning to 1800
"A History of the French Novel, Vol. 1" by George Saintsbury is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the development and significance of the French novel, tracing its origins to the end of the 19th century. Saintsbury emphasizes the pleasure derived from literature and seeks to outline how the French novel evolved, analyzing its prominent authors and works along the way. The opening of this work introduces the author’s intent and methodology, emphasizing a unique approach to literary history that values both major and minor contributions to the genre. Saintsbury discusses the beginnings of prose fiction and its distinct characteristics, referencing classical influences and early narrative forms like the Saint's Life, before detailing how these earlier works shaped French romance and eventually the novel. This section sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of key figures in French literature and the broader cultural contexts that gave rise to this literary tradition.
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