Bel-Ami

Henri René-Albert-Guy de Maupassant was born on August 5, 1850 at the château de Miromesnil in France. In 1880 he published what is considered his first masterpiece, "Boule de Suif". Bel-Ami, which came out in 1885 is one of his most famous novels. The story is about a young and handsome man Georges Duroy who became one of the most successful men in Paris due to his good looks and ability to seduce women. Scandal, political intrigue and sexual manipulation are perfectly described by Maupassant. The novel provides deep insight into the politics and high society of France during the early Third Republic. He depicts corruption in politics, cozy relationship between politicians and journalists, colonialism, antisemitism, relations between men and women marked by exploitation and hypocrisy. Artist Elena Ringo brilliantly illustrates the book. Her illustrations create an absolutely unforgettable image of the charming scoundrel Bel Ami.