Human Comedy, Volume 22

Author: (French) Balzac / Multiple Authors
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1997-08-01
Features: This volume is the 22nd in The Human Comedy, and "The Elixir of Life" is a story within the book. It is a fantastical and absurd philosophical novel with a supernatural touch. Yet, in "To the Reader," Balzac skillfully highlights the connection between the novel and real life: Don Juan's patricide may seem shocking, but aren't the various farces, tragedies, and comedies surrounding inheritance issues in society, in some way, reminiscent of Don Juan's actions? Through the novelist's reimagining, Don Juan has transformed significantly from the folklore and past literary works. In Balzac's portrayal, Don Juan is a highly complex figure—both evil and wise, embodying both skepticism and rebellious spirit, as well as selfishness. More than just a person, Balzac attempts to summarize contemporary societal notions through this character and explores the essence and origin of evil via this figure.