Pere Goriot (Signet Classics)

Towards the end of the book there is brilliantly crafted dialogue between the two sisters, back and forth: make a point, loose a point on the counter attack. All in front of their dying father leaving one to wonder at the inherent selfcentered cruelness of these siblings who have taken so much. Not only that, interplay between the other characters is also well drawn as is the description of the boarding house guests and in particular one who ...but that will give too much away.Open the book at any page to browse and it will not be put down but turned to the front to begin the tale.Poor translations can at best be pedestrian and loose the sparkle of the orignial. The edition I read did not suffer from that defect but planted me squarely in Paris, its social machinations and mores, and the fasinating very human characters, flaws and all.

Balzac is famous for good reason. The novel was intense and he did an incredible job of setting the scene of Paris and criticizing the social structure and the role of money in society. There were profound thoughts throughout and ample use of evocative detail as well as the theme of a fathers love for his daughters. The cruelty of high society and the temporary nature of wealth. At places it felt contrived, and some of he scenes were paced slower than I would have liked so I dropped one star.

Hesitant at first, I rapidly developed an interest in the book. On the surface it provides a snapshot of Paris in the early 1800s. Dig a little deeper and you get a feel for what de Balzac called "The Human Comedy." Would recommend a few minutes on the internet researching the author before you begin this book. Understanding de Balzac and the place "Pere Goriot" occupies in his rich collection of books adds to the enjoyment. A very good read.

Brilliant detailed description and interesting plot.

Could not finish. Found all the characters rather disgusting. I couldn't root for anyone. Horrible time in civilizations evolution if i based it on these characters. The elite are all petty and shallow and the I guess middle class residents of the boarding house in the story is set are petty and striving to be elite. Had no appeal to me. I could not understand what made this book a "classic."Although I didn't finish, I had a lively discussion with my writing group about the book.

The book is well written and uses language not found in today's novels. Insight into the times and the mores of the upper class French. The book is dated for today's readers.

Book arrived as advertised, in very good condition. I was a bit put off by the 50-cent sales price inside but believe the book by Stefan Zweig to be worth at least what I paid for it. Fine service, honest reporting of a product.

It is a classic for a reason!

Thanks for your great help . Really it was fantastic and helpful