Charterhouse of Parma

It was recommended to me recently. Nothing else to say, really. The person recommending it though it was fantastic.

I do love me some Stendhal, but I am biased.

I love Stendhal. "The Red and the Black" is my favourite of his works, but I do have a big spot saved for "The Charterhouse of Parma". What do you think of it so far? I read the book quite a number of years ago so the plotline isn't as vivid in my mind. I do remember being immensely entertained by the unintentional idiot, Fabrizio, who inspired my skype username. I don't know what else to say really except that Stendhal's protagonists are all simultaneously lovable and loathsome leaving you anxiety-ridden and hoping they'll make it through all right. Also, the Duchess is awesome.

Your post has reminded me of this wonderful book and now I feel I must find my copy and read it again.

Whose translation are you reading?

I was bored by Red and Black (it must have seemed very courant at the time, but man is it tedious now), but CofO was riveting.

I've always liked Stendhal's quote about ice cream. Something like "It's such a pity that this isn't a sin."

I meant P.

It gets very exciting when he goes to jail. I read it ten years ago, so my memory may be off.

I love this book - but mainly for the Waterloo chapters. Now and then I go back and read that sequence. I found the rest of the book a let down, although the duchess is an excellent character.