Balzac Collection - Volume 10: A New Translation

In Jesus Christ in Flanders, Balzac recounts a parable set on a ferry journey from the island of Cadzand to Ostend. When a mysterious stranger boards the vessel, the wealthy passengers refuse him space, while the poor welcome him. As a storm threatens the boat, the true nature of the stranger is revealed, offering a meditation on humility, faith, and divine grace.

Gaudissart II offers a satirical glimpse into Parisian commerce through the character of a shrewd salesman. This short story delves into the art of persuasion and the dynamics of consumer culture, highlighting the cunning tactics employed in the bustling markets of Paris.

In A Passion in the Desert, a French soldier during Napoleon's Egyptian campaign becomes lost in the desert and forms an unexpected bond with a panther. This poignant tale explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the thin line between civilization and nature.

A Bachelor's Household examines the life of Jean-Jacques Rouget, a solitary man whose domestic arrangements and personal relationships reflect the complexities of social expectations and personal desires in provincial France. Balzac's narrative offers insight into the nuances of bachelorhood and familial obligations.

Together, these stories showcase Balzac's versatility in storytelling and his deep understanding of human nature, providing readers with a rich tapestry of narratives that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.