Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 15

Name: Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 15
Author: Alphonse de Lamartine

By Alphonse de Lamartine

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Essays, Letters & Speeches French Literature Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

A seasoned critic offers a close reading of Victor Hugo's sprawling novel, recounting a pivotal episode in which an escaped convict encounters a child who loses a coin, and using that scene to question the plausibility of redeeming a brutalized soul into an idealized saint. The essay contrasts grand lyrical passages with burlesque episodes, objects to anachronistic political jabs, and argues that some comic or popular scenes would be better handled by writers attuned to social realism, while praising the author's soaring style despite occasional excesses.

About the Author

Alphonse de Lamartine

Alphonse de Lamartine (1790-1869) was a prominent French poet, novelist, and politician, known for his contributions to the Romantic literary movement. His works often explore themes of nature, love, and spirituality, reflecting his deep emotional and philosophical insights. One of his notable works, "Raphael; Or, Pages of the Book of Life at Twenty," showcases his lyrical style and introspective narrative. In addition to poetry, de Lamartine wrote historical and autobiographical texts, such as "History of the Girondists," which provides a personal perspective on the French Revolution. His literary legacy continues to influence French literature and thought.