The Magic Skin. The Quest of the Absolute: And Other Stories; Illustrated Sterling Edition (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781176803015)

This collection brings together Honoré de Balzac's masterpiece, "The Magic Skin", with a selection of his other compelling stories, delving into themes of ambition, desire, and the human condition. "The Magic Skin" tells the story of a young man who acquires a magical piece of shagreen that grants his every wish, but at the cost of his life force. As he indulges in his desires, the skin shrinks, and his days dwindle.

Alongside this novella are other shorter works that showcase Balzac's skill in portraying the complexities of Parisian society and the inner lives of his characters. These stories, filled with vivid descriptions and psychological insight, offer a window into 19th-century France and the universal struggles of humanity. This Sterling Illustrated Edition invites readers to rediscover Balzac's enduring contribution to world literature.

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