The first new English translation for more than 35 years of Balzac's extraordinary novel, a compelling mixture of psychological realism, wild fantasy, romance, and philosophy.
One of the key novels in Balzac's Comédie humaine, The Wild Ass's Skin is freshly translated by Helen Constantine, capturing Balzac's stylistic energy and exuberance.
Wide-ranging introduction considers the multiple perspectives of the novel, from its initial cultural and material contexts, its conceptualization of historical change and satirical commentary on contemporary society, to its variety of literary genres.
The first edition in English to include Balzac's original Preface of 1831 in which he defined the challenges facing the writer in a disenchanted world of political cynicism and commercialized art.
Extensive notes clarify Balzac's many allusions to the culture and society of his time.
Up-to-date bibliography and helpful map of Paris in 1830.
