Read this when
The Red and the Black
Carpenter's son, Napoleon-level ambition, treats every crush like a military campaign. Imposter syndrome, 1830 edition. ⚔️
Who it's for
Stendhal tracks Julien Sorel's mind moment by moment: his calculations about how to hold a woman's hand, his fury at condescension, his pride that turns every relationship into a battle.
Feelings it meets
What it is
The Red and the Black (Le Rouge et le Noir) is a novel by Stendhal published in 1830. It follows Julien Sorel, the ambitious son of a carpenter in the provincial town of Verrières, who idolizes Napoleon and becomes tutor to the children of Monsieur de Rênal, beginning an affair with Madame de Rênal.
Where to find it
Public domain in the US in its 1830 French original and older English translations, which can be found free online. Modern translations in print and via libraries (Libby/Hoopla); audiobook editions ex.
Before you start
Heads up: An execution and an attempted murder.
Age: Ages 16+
Life finds its wealth by the claims of the world, and its worth by the claims of love.Rabindranath Tagore, Stray Birds, no. 33
