Bel Ami; Or, The History of a Scoundrel: A Novel: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Bel Ami; Or, The History of a Scoundrel: A Novel: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Bel Ami; Or, The History of a Scoundrel: A Novel is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Maupassant, Guy de (1850–1893).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Bel Ami; Or, The History of a Scoundrel: A Novel" by Guy de Maupassant is a literary work written in the late 19th century. The novel centers on Georges Duroy, a young man who struggles with poverty and seeks to improve his social standing in Paris through cunning, manipulation, and seduction. As the story unfolds, Duroy's journey from a lackluster life to one of influence and wealth reveals the themes of ambition, moral ambiguity, and the darker sides of human nature. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Georges Duroy, who is depicted grappling with the reality of his financial struggles as he roams the streets of Paris. His chance encounter with his former comrade, Charles Forestier, sparks a conversation about journalism and the potential for a better life. Forestier encourages Duroy to pursue a career in writing, believing he has the charm and wit necessary to succeed. Throughout these opening chapters, Duroy's character is established as both ambitious and opportunistic, setting the stage for his eventual intrigues and escapades as he navigates the complex world of Parisian society. The blend of personal reflection and social commentary hints at Duroy's evolving relationships and potential moral dilemmas that will arise as he pursues his ambitions.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Bel Ami; Or, The History of a Scoundrel: A Novel
- Author credits: Maupassant, Guy de (1850–1893)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Conduct of life -- Fiction
- France -- Politics and government -- 1870-1940 -- Fiction
- Journalists -- Fiction
- Man-woman relationships -- Fiction
- Paris (France) -- History -- 1870-1940 -- Fiction
- Seduction -- Fiction
- Social classes -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: French Literature
- Category: Novels
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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