Guy de Maupassant and the World of the Norman Peasant

Abstract

<p>The thesis examines in detail the nature of the contes paysans written by Maupassant and the literary techniques which made this section the most successful in his work. The paper indicates and explains Maupassant's particular affection for the Norman peasant, then examines the different aspects of the peasant's character and the role he plays in the stories. An analysis is also made of other features of the peasant tales, such as the language, the decor, and the social events, while illustrating throughout the literary function of these elements. In the Conclusion, a comparison with other writers serves to demonstrate the reasons for the particular success of the contes paysans.</p>