Mutivoda / Pukovnik Šaber
Balzac's novel, published in three parts between 1837 and 1843, as part of the "Human Comedy" cycle. The work represents one of Balzac's most important analyzes of social ambitions, literary life and corruption in 19th century French society.
The novel follows the rise and fall of the young poet Lysien de Riblampre, a talented but naive young man from the provincial town of Angoulême. Lysien dreams of literary fame and social recognition, supported by his friend David Sešar, a humble and talented printer. Eager to realize his ambitions, Lysien goes to Paris with his mistress, the noblewoman Madame de Bargeton, hoping for success in literary circles.
However, the harshness of the capital soon shatters his illusions. Madame de Bargeton leaves him, and Lysien, without means or support, becomes easy prey for the unscrupulous world of journalism and publishing. In a desperate attempt to succeed, he joins a newspaper and begins to write on commission, often against his own moral principles.
At the height of fame and success, Lysien falls into a web of intrigue, love affairs and political manipulation. Meanwhile, his friend David Sešar tries to patent an innovative technology in printing, but is tricked by business rivals and relatives. Lysien's failure in high society leads him to complete moral and financial ruin. In the end, disgraced and ruined, he returns to Angoulême, where he is greeted by fraud and poverty.
One copy is available
