History of the Thirteen

by Honoré de Balzac

First published 1833

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History of the Thirteen brings together three connected Parisian stories shadowed by a secret brotherhood whose members can command money, influence and violence. In Ferragus, Auguste de Maulincour becomes suspicious of the hidden meetings between Madame Jules and the enigmatic Ferragus, and his investigation destroys the trust within an apparently happy marriage. The pursuit reveals family secrets but cannot undo the damage caused by jealousy and surveillance.

The Duchesse de Langeais follows General de Montriveau’s pursuit of a celebrated aristocratic woman who alternately encourages and rejects him until desire becomes a contest of pride and power. The Girl with the Golden Eyes centres on Henri de Marsay’s affair with Paquita Valdés, who is already controlled by another possessive lover. Across the three stories, private obsession repeatedly meets the coercive resources of wealth, secrecy and social rank.