“The Ladies’ Paradise” (Au Bonheur des Dames) recounts the rise of the modern department store in late nineteenth-century Paris. The store is a symbol of capitalism, of the modern city, and of the bourgeois family: it is emblematic of changes in consumer culture and the changes in sexual attitudes and class relations taking place at the end of the century.
Quotes from the book:
“Never subject to the rules, believing that the correct judgement and healthy nature keep her in the honesty she lived in.”
“Perhaps this young gentleman would like to take something?”
“Denise had walked from the Saint-Lazare railway station, where a Cherbourg train had landed her and her two brothers, after a night passed on the hard seat of a third-class carriage.”
Readers' reviews:
“An excellent addition to [my] course.... It will be a permanent part of my syllabus!” (David Ortiz Jr., University of Arizona)
“This book offers an excellent insight of Europe during the 19th century and the patriarchal society.” (Maud Cox, College of Charleston)
“A recommended read for lovers of fine literature.” (Kathy S., goodreads.com)
Quotes from the book:
“Never subject to the rules, believing that the correct judgement and healthy nature keep her in the honesty she lived in.”
“Perhaps this young gentleman would like to take something?”
“Denise had walked from the Saint-Lazare railway station, where a Cherbourg train had landed her and her two brothers, after a night passed on the hard seat of a third-class carriage.”
Readers' reviews:
“An excellent addition to [my] course.... It will be a permanent part of my syllabus!” (David Ortiz Jr., University of Arizona)
“This book offers an excellent insight of Europe during the 19th century and the patriarchal society.” (Maud Cox, College of Charleston)
“A recommended read for lovers of fine literature.” (Kathy S., goodreads.com)
