Eugenie Grandet
By Honoré de Balzac

Paris, 1833

"Eugénie Grandet" is a novel written by Honoré de Balzac, one of the most significant French authors of the 19th century. It was first published in 1833 as part of his ambitious literary series, "La Comédie Humaine."
The novel is set in the fictional town of Saumur in the Loire Valley and follows the life of Eugénie Grandet, the daughter of a wealthy but miserly and tyrannical father, Félix Grandet. Félix is a successful wine merchant who has acquired immense wealth through his shrewd and ruthless business dealings. He is obsessed with hoarding money and is known for his extreme frugality and avarice.
Eugénie, on the other hand, is a beautiful and kind-hearted young woman who lives a sheltered and secluded life under her father's oppressive rule. Despite her father's wealth, she is denied any enjoyment of her fortune or social life. Eugénie finds solace in her cousin, Charles, who comes to live with them after the death of his father.
Charles, however, is a carefree young man who is accustomed to a life of luxury and soon falls into financial ruin. The novel explores the complex relationships between Eugénie, Charles, and Félix, as well as the impact of money and material wealth on human behavior and happiness.
Balzac's "Eugénie Grandet" is a vivid depiction of the social and economic realities of the time, with a keen focus on the theme of money and its influence on individuals and society. It also delves into the themes of love, family, and the sacrifices people make for their desires and ambitions.
The character of Félix Grandet has become an iconic representation of a miserly figure in literature, and the novel itself is considered one of Balzac's finest works. With its exploration of human nature, social critique, and psychological depth, "Eugénie Grandet" remains a compelling and timeless classic in the world of literature.

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