Posts

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant Duchoux Summary

The Baron de Mordiane is feeling cold and sad after leaving a club and losing money. He is tired of his monotonous and unfulfilling life as an old bachelor. He longs for something tranquil and comfortable but does not want to get married.

He remembers his son, whom he had fathered in the past and wants to reconnect with him. The Baron decides to travel to Marseilles to see his son and his family. He notices his own aging appearance and desires rest and to spend time with his grandchildren.

Upon arriving at his son’s house, he mistakes a young boy for his grandson but realizes he is the gardener’s son. There is a description of laundry hanging outside the house.

The story then describes a meeting between the baron and M. Duchoux, an architect. The baron seeks to purchase building ground near Marseilles. Duchoux, a proud father of three sons, offers various options.

The baron is reminded of a past lover and their child, who was taken away at birth. The baron is disturbed by the resemblance between Duchoux and his lost love. The meeting ends with plans to view the land the next day.

The baron is haunted by memories and the scent of garlic, which reminds him of his past. The encounter leaves him shaken and eager to leave.

The story ends with the baron reflecting on the past and present, haunted by memories of lost love and the passage of time.

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant The Orderly Summary

The story takes place at a cemetery where Colonel Limousin’s wife has just been buried after drowning in a bath two days prior.

Colonel Limousin is devastated by his wife’s death and refuses to leave the gravesite, despite the efforts of his fellow officers to console him. General Ormont intervenes and convinces Colonel Limousin to return to his quarters.

Upon returning to his study, Colonel Limousin finds a letter from his deceased wife, confessing her infidelity and explaining the circumstances surrounding her affair. The letter reveals that Colonel Limousin’s orderly, Philippe, had discovered the affair and threatened to expose it unless the wife complied with his desires.

Fearing the consequences and out of desperation, the wife gave in to Philippe’s demands and continued the affair with him. The wife expresses remorse and acknowledges her wrongdoing, ultimately deciding to take her own life.

Colonel Limousin, upon reading the letter, confronts Philippe and demands to know the name of his wife’s lover. Philippe reveals that Captain Saint-Albert was the lover, but before he can say more, Colonel Limousin shoots him dead.

The story include the themes of betrayal, guilt, and the devastating consequences of infidelity. The story highlights the emotional turmoil experienced by Colonel Limousin upon discovering his wife’s affair and the tragic outcome that ensues. It also explores the complex dynamics of trust and loyalty within relationships.

Guy de Maupassant Duchoux Summary

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant The Hermit Summary

The story describes the narrator’s encounter with two solitaries, a man and a woman, who have chosen to live in solitude. The woman lives on a deserted mountain in Corsica, while the man resides on Snake Mountain near La Napoule.

The man’s temple-like dwelling is surrounded by aromatic plants and inhabited by snakes. The narrator visits the man multiple times and eventually becomes friends with him. The man reveals that he chose to live in solitude after experiencing a painful shock in Paris.

He had led a carefree bachelor’s life, indulging in relationships with various women. However, this lifestyle no longer satisfied him, leading him to seek solace in isolation.

The narrator’s life from the ages of twenty to forty passed without any remarkable events. The narrator decides to celebrate his fortieth birthday by having dinner alone and then going to a theater. Instead, he ends up going to a public-house and meets a young woman whom he invites to have supper with him.

After spending time with her, the narrator notices a portrait on the mantelpiece and realizes it is his own, from when he was a student. The woman reveals that the portrait is of her father, whom she never knew, and that her mother left it for her.

The narrator is shocked and leaves abruptly, feeling disturbed by the revelation. He seeks legal advice and sends a portion of his fortune to the woman, who is his daughter. The narrator resigns from his job and becomes a hermit, living on Snake Mountain.

The narrator shares his story with the listener, seeking their opinion on his actions. The listener reassures the narrator that he did what he had to do and that others may have reacted differently.

The narrator mentions that he is getting better but is now afraid of Paris. The narrator and the listener part ways, and the narrator never hears about the man again.

In summary, the tale tells the story of a man who discovers he has a daughter after a chance encounter with a young woman. This revelation leads him to resign from his job and become a hermit, seeking solace on Snake Mountain.

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant The Port Summary

The story describes the return of the three-master ship, Notre Dame des Vents, to Marseilles after a four-year voyage in the China seas. The ship had various adventures and misadventures during its journey, resulting in a change in crew composition.

The crew, upon arrival in Marseilles, was granted shore leave and ventured into the city, led by Célestin Duclos. They explored the streets near the harbor, encountering the temptations and dangers of the city, particularly the presence of prostitutes.

Despite the alluring offers, Duclos guided his companions away from unsavory establishments, showing his leadership and discernment. The group continued through the city, facing various encounters and temptations, until finally settling on a house to enter, hinting at further adventures to come.

The story then describes a scene of revelry where six sailors indulge in love and wine, wasting six months’ pay. They dominate the tavern, with one girl serving them and another engaging in conversation. The sailors pair up with women for the evening, engaging in rowdy behavior and singing.

One sailor, Célestin Duclos, converses with a woman who reveals herself as his sister, Francoise. She shares the tragic news of their family’s deaths and her struggles since his departure. Célestin is overwhelmed with emotion, recognizing his sister and breaking down in tears.

The scene ends with Célestin collapsing in distress, his comrades laughing and the woman weeping by his side.

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant La Morillonne Summary

La Morillonne, a woman with dark features in a fair district, was considered a monster due to her appearance and behavior.

Despite her ugliness, she had a hold over all the men in the village, who passed her around without jealousy.

Only the shepherd, Bru, did not show interest in her, which intrigued her. She pursued him and declared that she wanted him exclusively.

They spent a week together, causing a stir in the village. When the villagers grew bold and tried to intervene, La Morillonne showed her control over the situation by taming Bru’s dogs and asserting her dominance.

In the end, she claimed ownership of the dogs, leaving Bru behind with a sense of loss.

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant The Venus of Braniza Summary

The story is set in Braniza and revolves around a Talmudist, known for his wisdom, learning, and fear of God, and his beautiful wife, referred to as the Venus of Braniza.

The Talmud explains that the wives of Jewish philosophers are usually unattractive or have bodily defects, as God gives them women whom other men would not desire.

However, the Talmudist’s wife is an exception and is described as a stunningly beautiful woman with a voluptuous figure, strikingly beautiful head, and captivating eyes and hands.

Despite her beauty, the Talmudist’s wife leads a secluded life, wrapped in her fur jacket, and spends her days dreaming and brooding.

One day, during a thunderstorm, she asks her husband when the Messiah, the Son of David, will come. He replies that the Messiah will come when all Jews have become either virtuous or vicious, according to the Talmud.

The Talmudist’s wife questions whether all Jews will ever become virtuous, to which her husband expresses doubt. Later, when the Talmudist is away, he returns home unexpectedly and finds his house illuminated and an officer’s servant guarding it.

Inside, he discovers a table set for two and realizes that his wife has been with the Captain of Hussars, evidenced by a pair of spurs on the floor. When confronted, his wife shows no remorse and suggests that she must play her part in bringing about the Messiah’s redemption for the Jews.

The story portrays the contrast between the Talmudist’s wisdom and his wife’s beauty, highlighting the wife’s disregard for fidelity in her pursuit of fulfilling her role in the arrival of the Messiah.

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant The Twenty Five Francs of the Mother Superior Summary

Daddy Pavilly is described as a droll clown with a peasant background who amuses people with his jokes and tricks. He works as a harvester and entertains the other workers with his antics during the day and in the barn at night.

During a celebration, he falls off a wagon and breaks his leg, requiring treatment at a hospital. While at the hospital, he entertains the Sisters of Mercy with jokes and stories and sings hymns for them.

After being discharged, he receives payment for his services and goes to a café where he gets drunk. He then visits a house of ill repute and gets into a fight with one of the girls, resulting in his other leg being broken.

To avoid trouble, the owner of the establishment sends him back to the hospital. The Superior at the hospital is both saddened and amused by his return and asks him what happened, but he gives a vague explanation involving a mattress.

Overall, the story portrays Daddy Pavilly as a humorous and somewhat reckless character who brings laughter to those around him but also finds himself in unfortunate situations.

Guy de Maupassant The Venus of Braniza Summary

Posted on

Guy de Maupassant Paul’s Mistress Summary

The story describes the scene at the Restaurant Grillon, a popular spot for boatmen. The boats are slowly emptying as people board skiffs and head towards La Grenouillère. The rowers, dressed in white flannels, pose for onlookers as they glide along the river.

One couple, Mr. Paul and his mistress, remain behind and eventually join the others. Mr. Paul is well-liked and respected, as he pays well and acts as an advertisement for the establishment due to his father being a senator. The boats arrive at La Grenouillère, a large floating café filled with people. The atmosphere is lively and crowded, with various types of boats crossing the river.

The island is narrow and has a ferry boat that brings people from Croissy. The scene is filled with promenaders, both fashionable and tasteless, and soldiers from a nearby encampment. The floating establishment is rowdy, with spilled refreshments and tipsy individuals. The crowd consists of boatmen, locals, and a mix of questionable characters.

The place is known for its debauchery and is frequented by a variety of people. Some nearby residents and young men come to observe, while others come to learn how to live. The area near the café is used for bathing, with some women displaying themselves naked. The swimmers dive into the water, creating splashes that reach the café.

The heat inside the establishment is suffocating, with a mixture of scents from spilled liquor, bodies, and strong perfumes. There is a slight aroma of vice-powder in the air. The main attraction is the river, with boats constantly coming and going, attracting the attention of onlookers. The scene is lively and filled with shouts and yelling.

The four women in a canoe are being celebrated by a crowd at La Grenonillère. The women are dressed in men’s clothing and are known for their scandalous behavior. Despite attempts by the police to investigate, they are not found guilty of any wrongdoing. One of the women, Madeleine, is involved in a tumultuous relationship with a man named Paul.

Paul becomes jealous and angry when Madeleine interacts with the women in the canoe, leading to a confrontation. Paul is hopelessly in love with Madeleine, despite her flaws, and feels humiliated by the situation. They eventually reconcile and continue their outing on the river. The scene is described as idyllic, with the setting sun and pleasant scents in the air.

The narrator and his companion, Madeleine, are walking together in the evening. He feels a deep connection to the beauty of the surroundings, but she does not understand or appreciate it.

Madeleine begins to sing loudly, disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. The narrator feels a growing distance between them. The narrator passionately embraces Madeleine, but she seems indifferent and detached.

They continue their walk and encounter a canoe with four women, including a woman named Pauline. Madeleine exchanges greetings with them, causing the narrator to feel jealous and insecure. They return to the house for dinner, where the atmosphere is tense. The narrator suggests going to bed early, hoping for intimacy, but Madeleine reveals she has plans to attend a ball.

The narrator is disappointed and tries to convince Madeleine to stay, but she refuses and insists on going to the ball. They go to the ball together, where they witness a lively and provocative dance. The atmosphere is festive, with music, lights, and decorations.

The narrator becomes distracted by the moon rising and momentarily forgets about Madeleine. When he looks for her, she is gone. The narrator frantically searches for Madeleine, experiencing moments of despair and longing for a faithful and loving partner.

He stumbles upon a couple kissing and realizes it is not Madeleine. He becomes increasingly agitated and irritated by the music and the surroundings. The narrator returns to the ballroom and sees Madeleine with the three women. They laugh at him, causing him to feel humiliated and rejected.

He retreats to the island and listens for any signs of Madeleine. He hears her laughter and approaches quietly. The narrator contemplates leaving and never seeing Madeleine again, but the thought of their intimate moments together fills him with desire and longing.

Paul, is drawn towards a couple and witnesses something disturbing, which reminds him of a previous traumatic experience. Overwhelmed by anguish, Paul flees and ends up near a river.

In a moment of despair, Paul calls out for a woman named Madeleine and jumps into the river. Madeleine and her companion, Pauline, hear the noise and suspect that Paul has drowned himself.

They observe the search for Paul’s body and eventually witness its recovery. Madeleine is horrified by Paul’s appearance, and it is revealed that he is a wealthy individual. Madeleine is devastated by Paul’s death, and Pauline comforts her. Pauline suggests that Madeleine stay at her house for the night to provide support and comfort.

Guy de Maupassant The Twenty Five Francs of the Mother Superior Summary

Posted on

Hector Hugh Munro The Old Town of Pskoff Summary

Russia is currently facing a crisis, which has led to discontent, disorder, and depression throughout the country. The town of Pskoff, located in European Russia, offers a different perspective on Russian life, free from the political troubles of the time.

Pskoff is an old border town with a medieval Russian atmosphere, unaffected by Mongol influence and only slightly influenced by Byzantine culture. The town is situated on a scarp of land between two rivers and is characterized by long ramparts, towers, churches, monasteries, and bell-towers.

The streets of Pskoff are steep and winding, leading down to the riverside, where barges with colorful masts can be seen. The town’s population is in harmony with its old-world setting, with people wearing a variety of vibrant garments, creating a picturesque and colorful atmosphere.

Pskoff has a bustling market, with carts, booths selling wooden toys and pottery, and women selling strawberries. The larger river, Velikaya, is a hub of activity, with people swimming, washing clothes, and enjoying the water.

The Trinity Cathedral in Pskoff is a charming example of old Russian architecture, adorned with carvings, scarlet pigment, and gilded scrollwork. The cathedral houses relics and memorials of local hero-saints and hero-princes who played a role in the history of the Pskoff Commonwealth.

The author finds solace in the peaceful and historic atmosphere of Pskoff, contrasting it with the grand but less meaningful holy places of St. Petersburg. While the people of Pskoff may have their own desires for a better future, the author appreciates the picturesque and contented corner of Russia that the town represents.

Posted on

Hector Hugh Munro The Achievement of the Cat Summary

The text discusses the historical relationship between humans and domestic cats, drawing parallels between the reconciliation of nations and the coexistence of humans and felines. It highlights the past conflict between early humans and large predatory cats, which resulted in the triumph of humans due to their superior abilities. As a result, domestic cats were pushed to the margins of civilization, surviving in jungles and wastelands.

However, the domestic cat managed to adapt and secure a place within human society. Unlike other animals that serve humans, such as beasts of burden or dogs, cats are not subservient. They are domestic only to the extent that it benefits them, refusing to be confined or controlled. Through long contact with humans, cats have developed diplomatic skills and know how to ingratiate themselves with their surroundings.

Despite their seemingly docile nature, cats can quickly switch to aloofness and distance themselves from humans. They retain their innate savage spirit and hunting instincts, often preying on birds and rodents. This combination of primeval savagery and the luxuries of civilization is seen as a triumph for cats.

In addition to their adaptability, cats possess other qualities that command recognition. Throughout history, they have been associated with courage and self-respect. Even in unfavorable circumstances, cats display these qualities. When faced with danger, a kitten will resist while a child seeks assistance and a puppy submits. Cats maintain their boldness and self-reliance, even in adverse conditions.

The text also mentions the cat’s association with various cultures and societies. The Egyptians worshipped cats as divine beings, the Romans revered them as symbols of liberty, and medieval Europeans considered them agents of demonology. Despite societal perceptions, cats have consistently displayed courage and self-respect.

Even in the most challenging circumstances, such as being starved, outcast, or harassed in slums and alleys, cats retain their boldness and free spirit. They exhibit the same watchfulness and self-reliance as their ancestors in ancient temple courts. When faced with inevitable defeat, cats fight to the last breath, expressing their rage and protesting against their fate.

Overall, the text emphasizes the triumph of cats in adapting to human society while maintaining their independence and primal instincts. It highlights their courage, self-respect, and ability to survive in adverse conditions.

Hector Hugh Munro The Old Town of Pskoff Summary