La Vénus d'Ille

Name: La Vénus d'Ille
Author: Prosper Mérimée

By Prosper Mérimée

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Crime, Thrillers & Mystery French Literature

About This Book

A visiting antiquarian recounts arriving in a provincial town to see a recently unearthed bronze statue discovered under an olive tree. The statue is celebrated as an archaeological treasure but seems to carry a malign presence after accidents during its raising and increasing unease among the household. When the owner's son becomes engaged, the object intrudes into the domestic and social life, culminating in a violent death that leaves the wedding ring on the bronze hand. The narrative balances antiquarian detail, local gossip, and a steadily mounting suggestion of either rational explanation or supernatural agency.

About the Author

Prosper Mérimée

Prosper Mérimée was a French writer and playwright, born in 1803, who is best known for his novella "Carmen," which inspired the famous opera by Georges Bizet. His works often explore themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships, set against richly detailed backdrops. Mérimée's writing style is characterized by its sharp wit and vivid imagery, making him a significant figure in 19th-century French literature. In addition to "Carmen," he wrote notable works such as "Colomba" and "Abbé Aubain and Mosaics," which showcase his talent for storytelling and his interest in cultural and historical contexts.