Stories By English Authors: France   By: Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894)

Stories By English Authors: France is a captivating anthology of short stories written by some of the most influential English authors of the 19th century. Compiled by the talented Robert Louis Stevenson, this collection takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the cultural landscapes of France.

The book presents a remarkable variety of tales, each one offering a unique perspective on French life and society. From heartwarming love stories to thrilling adventures, the stories within this collection encompass a wide range of emotions and themes. The authors skillfully capture the essence of France, intertwining the allure of the country with masterful storytelling.

One of the standout stories in this anthology is "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" by Robert Browning. Through vivid descriptive language and a captivating narrative, Browning transports readers to the small town of Hamelin, where a mysterious piper lures its inhabitants away with his enchanting music. This classic tale blends elements of folklore and history, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Another notable inclusion is "The Last of the Legions" by Arthur Conan Doyle, the renowned creator of Sherlock Holmes. In this gripping story, Doyle takes us back to the days of the Roman Empire, sharing a tale of honor, duty, and sacrifice. The vivid depiction of ancient Gaul and the clash of civilizations make this story particularly captivating.

Additionally, the anthology offers insights into French society and culture at the time. Stories like "The Dead Woman's Secret" by Guy de Maupassant shed light on the darker aspects of society, delving into themes of greed, deceit, and mortality. These stories offer a thought-provoking glimpse into the human condition, transcending geographical boundaries.

While the stories within this anthology vary in tone and style, they are consistently well-crafted and engaging. Robert Louis Stevenson has curated a collection that not only showcases the talent of these English authors but also allows readers to experience the richness of French culture.

Moreover, this edition's introduction, penned by Robert Louis Stevenson himself, provides a captivating insight into the purpose and context of the stories. His words serve as a guide, enhancing the readers' overall experience and connecting them to the stories they are about to embark upon.

Stories By English Authors: France is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of short storytelling and has an interest in the enchanting blend of English and French literature. Robert Louis Stevenson has brilliantly brought together works that highlight the beauty, mysteries, and complexities of France, leaving readers enchanted and inspired.

First Page:

It was late in November, 1456. The snow fell over Paris with rigorous, relentless persistence; sometimes the wind made a sally and scattered it in flying vortices; sometimes there was a lull, and flake after flake descended out of the black night air, silent, circuitous, interminable. To poor people, looking up under moist eyebrows, it seemed a wonder where it all came from. Master Francis Villon had propounded an alternative that afternoon, at a tavern window: was it only pagan Jupiter plucking geese upon Olympus? or were the holy angels moulting? He was only a poor Master of Arts, he went on; and as the question somewhat touched upon divinity, he durst not venture to conclude. A silly old priest from Montargis, who was among the company, treated the young rascal to a bottle of wine in honour of the jest and grimaces with which it was accompanied, and swore on his own white beard that he had been just such another irreverent dog when he was Villon's age... Continue reading book >>