Christ in Flanders

Balzac's work is notable for its detailed portrayal of post-Napoleonic French society, encapsulated in his masterwork, La Comédie humaine. He is celebrated for creating intricate, morally ambiguous characters, making even minor figures feel fully realized. In his narratives, inanimate objects and settings, particularly Paris, are given distinct personalities, enhancing the realism of his stories. His influence extends beyond literature, impacting renowned authors and filmmakers alike, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the development of realism in European literature.