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Damned (La Bas) | Joris-Karl Huysmans

2 posts | 6 read | 5 to read

Joris-Karl Huysmans' shocking novel of an innocent's descent into a world of depraved, blasphemous ritualsDurtal, a shy, censorious man, is writing a biography of Gilles de Rais, the monstrous fifteenth-century child-murderer thought to be the original for 'Bluebeard'. Bored and disgusted by the vulgarity of everyday life, Durtal seeks spiritual solace by immersing himself in another age. But when he starts asking questions about Gilles's involvement in satanic rituals and is introduced to the exquisitely evil madame Chantelouve, he is soon drawn into a twilight world of black magic and erotic devilry in fin-de- siecle Paris. Published in 1891, The Damned cemented Huysmans's reputation as a writer at the forefront of the avant-garde and as one of the most challenging and innovative figures in European literature. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.

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Thndrstd

The Damned | Joris-Karl Huysmans

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Durtal is writing about Gilles de Rais, the child murderer believed to be the source of the legend of Bluebeard. He takes comfort in writing about the past, away from what he perceives as a immoral & decadent present (the novel was published in 1891). He finds himself embroiled in Satanism, witchcraft, & in a scandalous affair with the elusive madame Chantelouve. A strong story with philosophic elements, the novel still has a potent shock.

46 likes

Thndrstd

The Damned | Joris-Karl Huysmans

“Surely human nature is self, intolerant and vile. Just look around ourselves! Constant struggle, a society which cynical and cruel, the poor and humble forever fleeced and abused by the bourgeoisie! Everywhere I look I see the triumph of those without ability and without scruples, the apotheosis of crooked politicians and financiers. What progress can possibly be made against such a tide? ...Progress is the hypocrisy in which vice is refined!”

25 likes