The Unknown Masterpiece
The Unknown Masterpiece
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Brief
Beta135
Short Story • Fiction
•
French LiteratureParis, France • 1600s
•
World History2001
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In "The Unknown Masterpiece" by Honoré de Balzac, an artist named Frenhofer grapples with his quest for artistic perfection. Set in 1612 Paris, Frenhofer mentors the young painter Poussin and confronts the profound challenges and passions of creating and understanding art. Through this exploration, the story delves into themes of obsession and artistic vision.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
5,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Unknown Masterpiece by Honoré de Balzac is praised for its exploration of art and obsession. Critics admire the novella's depth in portraying the artist’s struggle, though some find its pacing uneven and characters underdeveloped. Despite this, its philosophical insights and vivid descriptions are lauded, leaving a lasting impression on readers.
Who Should Read The Unknown Masterpiece?
A reader captivated by art's transcendence and pursuit of perfection will relish Balzac's The Unknown Masterpiece. Fans of Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray or Wharton’s The Age of Innocence will appreciate its exploration of obsession, beauty, and sacrifice.
5,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
135
Short Story • Fiction
•
French LiteratureParis, France • 1600s
•
World History2001
Adult
18+ years
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