Subject
Gautier, Théophile, 1811-1872 Books
Best books
Judith Gautier
Le collier des jours: Le second rang du collier
"Le collier des jours: Le second rang du collier" by Judith Gautier is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the life of two sisters, navigating their relationship with their strict governess, Mlle Honorine Huet, as they transition from the freedom of summer in Enghien back to the confines of Paris. Through a blend of childhood escapades and the poignant exploration of personal dynamics, the narrative hints at deeper themes of authority, rebellion, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the sisters and their governess, Mlle Huet, whose rigid demeanor and love for escargots irritate the girls and spark their rebellious spirits. Their summer in Enghien has afforded them a sense of freedom, but as they return to Paris, the tension begins to mount. The girls engage in mischief to lighten the oppressive atmosphere of their home, leading to humorous incidents that showcase the friction between childhood playfulness and adult authority. The dynamics shift further as the governess's eccentricities and passion for the supernatural emerge, hinting at a deeper characterization that promises to complicate the sisters' lives.
Leon H. (Leon Henry) Vincent
The Bibliotaph, and Other People
"The Bibliotaph and Other People" by Leon H. Vincent is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. This volume explores the eccentricities and passions of book collectors, particularly focusing on the character of the Bibliotaph, a passionate book collector whose life revolves around acquiring and cherishing rare volumes. Vincent blends humor and insight as he reflects on the romantic yet often misunderstood world of bibliophiles. At the start of the collection, the narrative introduces the concept of bibliophilia by painting a vivid picture of the Bibliotaph, a larger-than-life character driven by a deep passion for books. The opening portion details his eccentric behavior, including the whimsical justifications for why one might need multiple copies of the same book. Vincent contrasts different types of book collectors, illustrating their motivations and the complexities of their obsessions. The Bibliotaph's love for books is shown alongside his humorous takes on life, suggesting a deep but playful engagement with the literary world.
Louis Nicolardot
L'Impeccable Théophile Gautier et les sacrilèges romantiques
"L'Impeccable Théophile Gautier et les sacrilèges romantiques" by Louis Nicolardot is a literary study written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the life and poetic contributions of Théophile Gautier, exploring his relationships with contemporaries like Baudelaire and Sainte-Beuve, while reflecting on the impact of Romanticism on literature and society. The book addresses the complexities of Gautier’s character, his celebrated talent, and also the controversies surrounding his works. The opening of the study presents an examination of Théophile Gautier's election to the Académie and the perception of his literary legacy. Nicolardot critiques the reception of Gautier by his peers, emphasizing a cold indifference from the Académie due to his unconventional romantic narratives. The discussion highlights Gautier's connections with other prominent figures of the time, including the adulation from Baudelaire, alongside a reflection on Gautier's artistic style, his philosophical musings on poetry, and the Romantic tendencies of his era. Nicolardot establishes a critical lens on the "sacrilège" of Romanticism, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of Gautier's work as embodying the conflict between traditional literary morality and the emerging modern sensibility.
Judith Gautier
Le collier des jours: Souvenirs de ma vie
"Le collier des jours: Souvenirs de ma vie" by Judith Gautier is a autobiographical narrative likely written in the late 19th century. The work reflects on the early childhood experiences of the author, focusing on her relationships, emotions, and perceptions as she grows. It captures the innocence of childhood along with the complex feelings that surface during her formative years, particularly regarding her bond with her nurse and her understanding of social hierarchies. At the start of the narrative, Judith Gautier introduces herself and her initial experiences in life, mentioning an extraordinary passion that marked her entry into the world. She recounts a dramatic and passionate beginning, marked by a fierce desire to resist birth itself. This vivid recollection sets the tone for her reflections on her childhood, including her relationship with her nurturing nurse, Damon, and the familial dynamics around her. The scenes depicted show Judith's early memories with great clarity, showcasing the tender yet tumultuous nature of her emotional landscape, as she navigates her environment filled with tenderness, jealousy, and an awakening consciousness of her position in the world.
Recently surfaced classics