Clase: Auerbach, "La mansión de la Mole" (parte 1 de 3)

Introduction to Realism in 19th Century France

Overview of the Chapter

• The chapter focuses on realism in 19th-century France, particularly through the lens of Flaubert. It aims to explore realism as a significant literary style of the era.

Auerbach's "Mimesis"

• Auerbach's work, "Mimesis," is an ambitious project that examines how reality is represented across Western literature. Written during WWII exile in Istanbul, it reflects on accessibility to European libraries and texts.

• The book is described as monumental; Raúl Rodríguez Freire notes it as one of the greatest works of Western humanism, conceived from an external perspective while being written in Istanbul.

Historical Context and Literary Evolution

• Auerbach traces historical shifts from classical antiquity styles to their fusion in the New Testament, culminating with 19th-century French realists like Stendhal, Balzac, Flaubert, and Proust. This evolution highlights how reality was represented with increasing skill over time.

• Central to "Mimesis" is the theory of mixed styles; post-Christianity saw a breakdown of rigid Aristotelian themes allowing for serious treatment of lower subjects within literature. This concept underpins realistic style and its development throughout history.

Analysis of Stendhal's Contribution

Historical Perspective on Stendhal

• The analysis begins with Stendhal’s character Julien Sorel from "The Red and the Black." Auerbach connects Sorel’s experiences to societal conditions following Napoleon's fall, indicating a historical verisimilitude tied to this period.

Impact of Historical Events

• Auerbach posits that events between 1789 (French Revolution) and 1815 fostered realism by positioning people as historical subjects capable of serious representation in literature—an essential shift for characters like Sorel.

Summary of Key Historical Developments

• The late 18th century marked a transition characterized by revolutionary violence leading up to Napoleon’s downfall and subsequent restoration efforts—this context is crucial for understanding realism's emergence during this tumultuous period in France.

Revolutionary Changes and the Rise of Realism

Overview of the French Revolution

• The French Revolution began in 1789, opposing the monarchical regime, leading to significant political upheaval.

• By 1791, a constitutional monarchy was established where the king shared power with an assembly; however, by 1792, the monarchy was abolished and a republic proclaimed.

• The execution of King Louis XVI occurred in 1793 amidst economic turmoil and revolts from poorer classes.

The Reign of Terror and Aftermath

• Maximilien Robespierre rose to power during the Reign of Terror (1793-1794), resulting in approximately ten thousand executions for counter-revolutionary activities.

• Robespierre himself was overthrown and executed in 1794; this led to Napoleon's coup d'état in 1799 aimed at preventing monarchic restoration.

Emergence of Realism

• Post-Napoleon's fall in 1814 marked a conservative reaction known as "the Restoration," which influenced literary movements including realism.

• Auerbach notes that realism allows for storytelling through characters of lower social status, exemplified by Stendhal’s portrayal of Julian Sorel.

Characteristics of Realism

• Realism focuses on themes derived from contemporary reality rather than imagination; it reflects societal transformations rather than utopian ideals.

• Stendhal’s works are rooted in personal experiences, emphasizing real-life changes over hypothetical societal structures.

Representation in Literature

• Auerbach highlights that modern realism represents individuals within a total reality—political, economic, social—showing diverse societal roles such as pharmacists or lawyers.

• This comprehensive representation is foundational for understanding literature today; it marks a shift towards depicting society holistically.

Conclusion on Literary Impact

• Stendhal is considered a pioneer whose approach laid groundwork for future realistic literature. His influence persists across various media forms today.

• Key characteristics include telling grand narratives through lesser-known characters and reflecting contemporary realities while representing humanity's totality.