After Vautrin helps Lucien overcome a mental breakdown, the two men
decide to align forces in pursuit of social status and wealth. Operating
under an alias, Vautrin offers to help Lucien redeem himself and move
back to Paris, with the condition that Lucien follows his orders
exactly. Happy to comply, the pair return to the capital city, living in
excess and racking up a debt as they pretend they can afford this
luxurious lifestyle. With a goal of gaining the attention and love of a
wealthy woman, Vautrin helps Lucien appear to be an eligible and
desirable bachelor. However, his plan is compromised when Lucien instead
meets Esther, a beautiful sex worker. First trying to keep their
relationship a secret from Vautrin, Lucien and Esther share an amorous
connection. However, as the relationship continues, Lucien must choose
between his newfound love, or the shallow charade he and Vautrin have
cultivated. Though, the decision may not be his to make, and as always,
Vautrin always has a plan. With intricate descriptions of the buildings,
culture, and people of Paris, Scenes from a Courtesan's Life by Honoré
de Balzac provides invaluable insight to into the social history of
France. This observation of the time allows readers a rare and
unfiltered perspective on the 19th century Parisian society,
particularly on their values and class distinctions. With themes of
morality, romance, and class, Scenes from a Courtesan's Life explores
the dark and unspoken aspects of society while entertaining with a
thrilling storyline and compelling characters. First published as a
serial in four parts in 1838, this Balzac classic is captivating and
clever. With surprises and twists, there is never a dull moment in
Scenes from a Courtesan's Life This edition of Scenes from a
Courtesan's Life by Honoré de Balzac features a stunning new cover
design and is presented in a font that is both stylish and readable.
With these accommodations, this edition is accessible and appealing to
contemporary audiences, restoring Scenes from a Courtesan's Life to
modern standards while preserving the intricacy and value of Honoré de
Balzac's work.
