Boule De Suif by Guy de Maupassant

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 3182nd greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 118

Since this book was first published in 1880, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 118.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.