Bibliothèque de campagne, ou, Amusemens de l’esprit et du coeur. Vol. V

1785

Shoults Lb 1785 B

[Brussels]: Benoit Le Francq

La Princesse de Clèves (above) is credited as France’s first historical-psychological novel, marking a significant departure from the flimsy romances of old. Although first published anonymously in 1678, the work was later attributed to Madame de La Fayette (1634-1693), a prolific French novelist. While her years in the Austrian royal court formed her literary education, it was La Fayette’s time at the French court, and her fascination with the past king, Henry II, that became the basis for La Princesse de Clèves. The novel, a tale of adultery, was noted for its historical accuracy and scandalous intrigue.