The Children of Alsace Les Oberlés   By: René Bazin (1853-1932)

René Bazin’s The Children of Alsace Les Oberlés is a deeply moving and poignant novel that takes readers on a journey through the emotional landscape of war and love. Set against the backdrop of Alsace, a region torn between allegiance to France and Germany in the late 19th century, the story unfolds with a graceful blend of historical accuracy and heartfelt storytelling.

The protagonist, François Derblay, is a young French soldier who finds himself stationed in Alsace during a crucial period of territorial conflict. As the tensions rise, François is drawn into the lives of the Oberlé family, whose tragic destiny becomes intertwined with his own. Bazin skillfully portrays the complexities of war through François' eyes, capturing his internal struggle between his duty as a soldier and his empathy for the suffering he witnesses.

The author’s attention to detail is exceptional, showcasing his extensive research into the historical context of the region. From the sublime beauty of the Alsace landscape to the cultural nuances of its people, each scene is vividly described, immersing readers in the era with precision and authenticity.

What truly sets this novel apart is the exploration of human connection and resilience in the face of adversity. The characters are impeccably crafted, allowing readers to empathize with their experiences and emotions. François' growing bond with Suzanne Oberlé, the eldest daughter of the family, is especially tender and heartfelt, epitomizing the power of love amidst chaos and despair.

Moreover, Bazin masterfully weaves themes of identity, sacrifice, and loyalty throughout the narrative. The choices made by the characters reflect the clash between familial ties and national pride, forcing readers to question the true cost of war and the lengths one is willing to go for their convictions.

Despite its somber subject matter, The Children of Alsace Les Oberlés is ultimately a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The novel is an emotional rollercoaster, evoking a range of emotions from heartache to hope. Bazin’s prose is elegant and poetic, infusing every page with a sense of depth and beauty that resonates long after the final chapter.

In conclusion, René Bazin’s The Children of Alsace Les Oberlés is an extraordinary novel that delves into the devastating effects of war while illustrating the transformative power of love and humanity. With its rich historical background, well-drawn characters, and powerful themes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking literary experience.

First Page:

René Bazin is already known to the English public as a writer of exquisite charm and wonderful sensibility. "The Nun," "Redemption," and "This My Son" have revealed his powers to appreciative readers. Bazin is not only an original writer, a charming story teller, but also a deep thinker, a clear delineator of human character and life, a wonderful landscape painter, and a bold realist. For it is real life, humble, poignant, palpitating, which we meet in his stories. Life, full of misery and suffering, but also of pity and charity, of self sacrifice and heroic traits. Bazin is a passionate admirer of Nature, and this admiration and love manifest themselves in his preference for pastoral and rural scenes, and his description of nature and peasant life... Continue reading book >>