"A Second Home" (French title: "Une double famille") is a novella written by Honore de Balzac, a prominent French novelist and playwright of the 19th century. It is part of his larger work, "La Comedie Humaine," a series of interconnected novels and stories portraying French society in the early 19th century.
In "A Second Home," Balzac explores the complexities of familial relationships, social expectations, and the clash between duty and desire. The story revolves around Madame de Fischtaminel, a wealthy widow, and her family, who are faced with financial troubles. To alleviate their financial burdens, Madame de Fischtaminel decides to take in a lodger, Monsieur de Merret, a retired army officer who is also her lover.
As the plot unfolds, tensions arise within the household as Madame de Fischtaminel's daughter, Hortense, falls in love with Monsieur de Merret. The situation becomes even more complicated when Hortense's fiancé, The Vicomte Camille de Grandlieu, discovers the affair between his future mother-in-law and Monsieur de Merret.
Balzac delves into the psychological intricacies of the characters, portraying their conflicting emotions, desires, and moral dilemmas. Through vivid descriptions and insightful narration, he exposes the hypocrisy and moral decay lurking beneath the façade of bourgeois respectability.
"A Second Home" offers a nuanced exploration of human nature, societal conventions, and the consequences of passion and betrayal. Balzac's keen observation of human behavior and his mastery of narrative technique make this novella a compelling and thought-provoking read, showcasing his enduring legacy as one of the greatest novelists in French literature.
