Guy de Maupassant
Guy de Maupassant was a renowned French writer, best known for his short stories and novels. He is considered one of the fathers of the modern short story and his works often depict the everyday lives of people in the late 19th century.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Stories of Guy de Maupassant
This book is a collection of short stories from a renowned French author, known for his masterful storytelling and keen observations of human nature. The narratives delve into various aspects of life, from love and loss to morality and deception, showcasing the author's ability to capture the complexity of human emotions and experiences. His stories often carry a cynical tone, reflecting the harsh realities of life, and are noted for their surprise endings.
The 517th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Bel Ami
"Bel Ami" is a novel set in 19th-century Paris, focusing on the life of an ambitious young man who rises from poverty to wealth and power. It explores themes of corruption, manipulation, and the societal power dynamics of the time. The protagonist utilizes his charm and wit to climb the social ladder, seducing and manipulating several influential women along the way. The story provides a critical look at the French bourgeoisie and the moral decay within this social class.
The 757th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. A Woman's Life
"Une Vie" is a tragic tale about a young, naive aristocrat who dreams of love and happiness. However, her life becomes a series of heartbreaks and disappointments as she endures a loveless marriage, infidelity, the death of her children, and financial ruin. Despite her struggles, she maintains her faith in the goodness of life and its potential for happiness. The novel explores themes of disillusionment, the harsh realities of the world, and the often wide gap between expectation and reality.
The 1366th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Pierre et Jean
"Pierre et Jean" is a psychological drama that explores the complex dynamics of a bourgeois family in the 19th century France. The story revolves around two brothers, Pierre and Jean, who find their relationship strained when they discover that Jean is the sole inheritor of a large fortune left by a family friend. Pierre, consumed by jealousy and suspicion, starts to question Jean's paternity, leading to a series of dramatic and emotional confrontations that reveal deep-seated insecurities and familial tensions. The narrative is a profound exploration of human nature, jealousy, and the destructive power of secrets.
The 1513th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Boule De Suif
This narrative is a poignant exploration of social hypocrisy and moral contrasts set against the backdrop of the Franco-Prussian War. It follows a diverse group of French passengers traveling by coach from Rouen to Le Havre, among them a well-regarded prostitute named Boule de Suif. Despite her low social standing, Boule de Suif displays unparalleled patriotism and kindness, offering food to her fellow travelers. However, when the group is detained by a Prussian officer who demands an evening with Boule de Suif as the price for their passage, the others pressure her into compliance for their own benefit. After she sacrifices her dignity, they hypocritically ostracize her, revealing the stark moral failings of the so-called respectable members of society.
The 3472nd Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Allouma And Other Tales
This collection of stories delves into the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of relationships, often set against the backdrop of 19th-century French society. The tales explore themes such as love, desire, betrayal, and the often harsh realities of life. Through vivid characterizations and keen observations, the narratives reveal the inner workings of the human psyche, highlighting both its strengths and vulnerabilities. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the moral and emotional dilemmas faced by individuals, capturing the essence of Maupassant's literary prowess.
The 5330th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. The Horla
The book is a chilling tale of psychological horror that delves into the fragile human psyche through the diary entries of a man who becomes increasingly convinced that he is not alone. He senses the presence of an invisible, malevolent entity that he calls "the Horla," which he believes is a superior being that has begun to exert control over his mind and body. As his paranoia and obsession with the Horla grow, so does his descent into madness, leading him to question the nature of reality, free will, and his own sanity. The story masterfully explores themes of existential dread and the fear of the unknown, culminating in a haunting and ambiguous conclusion.
The 7528th Greatest Book of All Time
