The Balzac, Honoré de 1799-1850 creator text utu 2005 monographic en 1 online resource : multiple file formats "The Stepmother: A Drama in Five Acts" by Honoré de Balzac is a theatrical drama written in the mid-19th century. The play revolves around the complex dynamics of a family led by General Comte de Grandchamp, particularly highlighting the struggle of his daughter, Pauline, and her connections with those around her, including her stepmother, Gertrude, and a suitor named Godard. The narrative delves into themes of love, jealousy, and familial duty, set against the backdrop of societal expectations in 1829 France. At the start of the play, we are introduced to the lavish drawing-room of the General’s chateau, where he and Gertrude discuss their daughter Pauline's prospective marriage. Gertrude expresses concern over the persistent gossip suggesting she is impeding Pauline's romantic opportunities. As the General favors Pauline’s freedom to choose her husband, Godard, a wealthy suitor, enters with intentions of courtship. The opening scenes unfold the tensions between Gertrude and Pauline, contrasting Gertrude's role as a devoted yet insecure stepmother with Pauline’s youthful aspirations and emerging affections for another man, Ferdinand. As familial bonds and romantic endeavors intertwine, underlying animosities and secrets begin to surface, setting the stage for the dramatic conflicts to come. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Release date is 2005-05-23 Produced by Dagny and John Bickers Original publication data not identified France -- Social life and customs -- 19th century -- Drama French drama -- 19th century -- Translations into English PQ Original publication data not identified https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/15878 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/15878 UtSlPG 260607 20260610133355.0 15878