Mont-Oriol: A New Translation

Guy de Maupassant's Mont-Oriol is a novel of love, ambition, and the intersection of personal desire with economic speculation. First published in 1887, this work showcases Maupassant's sharp social critique and keen observation of human nature, set against the backdrop of a fashionable thermal spa in the French countryside. In this new translation, the novel's wit, elegance, and depth are preserved, allowing readers to experience its compelling narrative in clear, contemporary language.

At the heart of Mont-Oriol is a story of romance and opportunism. The novel follows Christiane Andermatt, a young woman trapped in a stifling marriage, as she navigates newfound passion amid the world of speculative business ventures surrounding the burgeoning health resort of Mont-Oriol. Her personal struggles unfold alongside a larger commentary on greed, exploitation, and the commercialization of nature, as wealthy investors seek to profit from the supposed healing powers of the region's thermal waters. Maupassant masterfully intertwines these themes, painting a vivid picture of a society where financial ambition often overshadows personal happiness.

Written during a time when France was undergoing rapid social and economic transformation, Mont-Oriol reflects Maupassant's fascination with the impact of wealth and modernization on human relationships. With his signature blend of irony and realism, he exposes the moral ambiguities of those seeking to advance their fortunes, revealing how power and money shape not only business dealings but also matters of the heart.

This edition offers a faithful translation of Maupassant's original text, without additional commentary, preserving the novel's sharp dialogue and rich psychological insight. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Maupassant or discovering his work for the first time, Mont-Oriol remains a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of human ambition and the eternal conflict between love and material success.