The Physiology of Marriage, Part 1

Name: The Physiology of Marriage, Part 1
Author: Honoré de Balzac

By Honoré de Balzac

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

French Literature Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

The author offers a satirical and analytical examination of marriage, arguing that it is a social institution shaped by laws, customs, and human vanity. Through a mix of aphorisms, moral reflections and anecdotal observations, he traces the origins of conjugal unhappiness to mismatched expectations, economic pressures, and sexual rivalry, considers the influence of adultery and legal sanctions, and proposes practical and psychological counsel for spouses. The work oscillates between caustic humor and earnest moralizing, dissecting gendered behaviors, social hypocrisy, courtship and the gradual erosion of passion, while urging greater realism about love and clearer social arrangements to reduce suffering within married life.

About the Author

Honoré de Balzac

Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright, renowned for his detailed and vivid portrayal of society in the early 19th century. His monumental work, "La Comédie Humaine," encompasses a vast array of characters and stories that explore the complexities of human nature and social dynamics. Balzac's keen observations of the bourgeoisie and the intricacies of Parisian life are evident in notable titles such as "A Daughter of Eve" and "A Distinguished Provincial at Paris." His writing style is characterized by rich descriptions and a deep psychological insight, making him a pivotal figure in the development of modern literature.