Father Goriot

In the labyrinth of Parisian society, who gets to decide who rises and who falls? Honoré de Balzac's seminal work, "Father Goriot," wrestles with this question, offering a raw exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and societal corruption. Deeply rooted in the gritty realism of 19th-century France, this novel illuminates the struggles of Eugène de Rastignac and the tragic figure of Father Goriot, ensnared in a world where wealth determines worth. Balzac's incisive narrative and vivid characterization form a stark commentary on the human condition, immersing readers in a tale as heartbreaking as it is enlightening. "Father Goriot" is not merely a book—it's a journey into the heart of a ruthless society.