A Distinguished Provincial at Paris

Balzac's work is celebrated for its detailed portrayal of post-Napoleonic French society, showcasing a vast array of complex, morally ambiguous characters. His characters are not only richly developed, but even inanimate objects and settings, like Paris, are given depth and personality. As a pioneer of realism, his influence extends to numerous renowned authors and filmmakers, marking him as a significant figure in European literature. His magnum opus, La Comédie humaine, encapsulates this intricate tapestry of life and society.