Selected Short Stories of Maupassant (Famous Works, Translated and Illustrated Edition)

Author: Guy de Maupassant
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-06-01
Features: Maupassant's preferred subjects were the Franco-Prussian War he personally participated in, his decade-long career as a small office worker, and the life in his Norman hometown during his youth. These three environments provided his short stories with extremely rich themes. These works praise the patriotic enthusiasm of the people, depict rural customs and social manners, and truthfully reflect the monotonous and rigid life of a small office worker. They each have unique artistic characteristics and are not repetitive, like the facets of a gem, collectively refracting a brilliant light. Mr. Zhao Shaohou began publishing translations as early as the 1930s, with particularly fruitful achievements in the 1950s. His translations primarily focus on short stories and novellas by authors such as Maupassant, Flaubert, and Maudru, among whom Maupassant's short stories are most prominent. His selection of Maupassant's short stories includes twenty-two works, which are essentially exquisite masterpieces combining both thoughtfulness and artistry.
The novel lacks the smoky battlefields or the clash of swords, yet it portrays distinctive characters through the forced sacrifice of the prostitute Omphale to the enemy. It especially outlines the ugly faces of the bourgeoisie, who abandon national dignity for personal gain. Omphale, dignified and refusing to yield, demonstrates the righteous spirit of patriotism, only to be pushed into the fire by her hypocritical compatriots. To compel Omphale to comply, they employ every trick in the book—soft and hard methods alike—even the seemingly righteous nun joins in the conspiracy.
With realistic details, concise language, and masterful skill, Maupassant crafts this novel into a vivid depiction of French society during wartime. The work constantly contrasts good and evil subtly, leading readers naturally to develop hatred for war, sympathy for the people, and disdain for the so-called upper class. It is truly a masterpiece that excels in both thoughtfulness and artistry.