Welcome to Litsy!

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.

“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!”