The Red and the Black

by Stendhal
The Red and the Black cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 1483
  • Added: 2025-10-06
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781588363053
  • Publisher: Modern Library
  • Published: 2003-06-24
  • Formats: 12
  • Reviews: 3

The Red and the Black by Stendhal is a gripping tale of Julien Sorel, an ambitious young man from the provinces, whose quest for fortune and self-discovery leads him through a series of mesmerizing and tragic events. Set against the backdrop of post-Napoleonic France, the novel intricately weaves together Julien's personal journey with the social and political intrigues of the time, offering an unprecedented look into the human psyche and the complexities of society. /n/n Stendhal's masterful storytelling and vivid portrayal of early-nineteenth-century France make this novel a timeless classic. The new translation by Burton Raffel, accompanied by an enlightening introduction by Diane Johnson, brings the story to life with renewed brilliance, highlighting its enduring relevance and artistic prowess.

Reviews
Reddit · 2025-10-06
entertaining 4.50

The novel is more entertaining than some of Stendhal's more famous contemporaries, making it a standout read.

This Reddit user, a fan of Stendhal, finds The Red and the Black to be more entertaining than some of his more famous contemporaries. They appreciate the novel's ability to captivate and engage the reader, making it a standout piece in Stendhal's body of work. The reviewer's enthusiasm for Stendhal's writing shines through, highlighting the novel's unique qualities that set it apart.

Quick quotes

    I'm a fan of Stendhal, he's one of my fave 19th century authors.

    I think more entertaining than his more famous contemporaries.

    A standout read.

The TLS · Maria C. Scott · 2022-09-23
profound 3.50

The novel features well-drawn protagonists and a captivating story, but it stands out due to Stendhal's unique style and insights.

Maria C. Scott acknowledges that The Red and the Black has well-drawn protagonists and a salacious story, but what sets it apart is Stendhal's unique style and the profound insights he offers. She argues that Stendhal's arguments for his work hold weight, making the novel more than just another forgotten book. The reviewer appreciates the depth and originality that Stendhal brings to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    The novel has well-drawn protagonists and a salacious story, but so do many long-forgotten books.

    Stendhal himself argued the case for his work, and it holds weight.

    Stendhal's unique style and profound insights set the novel apart.

Lotzin Translation · 2019-11-06
enjoyable 4.00

The novel is engaging with its short chapters and simple prose, making it a fun and easy read. The plot keeps the reader constantly engaged.

This reviewer found The Red and the Black to be a delightful read, praising its short chapters and simple prose which make it accessible and enjoyable. They highlight how the plot keeps the reader constantly engaged, making it a fun experience from start to finish. The reviewer appreciates Stendhal's ability to craft a story that remains entertaining and relevant even after many years.

Quick quotes

    Stendhal has aged very well.

    The novel is just fun to read: with short chapters, simple prose, and a plot that keeps the reader constantly engaged.

    A delightful read.

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