Massimilla Doni

Massimilla Doni is a novel written by Honore De Balzac, a French writer and playwright. It was first published in 1837 as part of the ""Scenes from Private Life"" series. The book tells the story of a young Venetian nobleman named Count Andrea Cavalcanti who falls in love with a beautiful and wealthy woman named Massimilla Doni. However, Massimilla is already married to a wealthy but aging nobleman, Count Vitale. Despite this, Andrea continues to pursue Massimilla, hoping to win her heart and gain her hand in marriage. As the story unfolds, Balzac delves into the complex social and political dynamics of Venetian society in the early 19th century. He explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal, as well as the corrupting influence of wealth and power. Along the way, he introduces a colorful cast of characters, including scheming aristocrats, cunning courtesans, and passionate artists. Massimilla Doni is considered one of Balzac's most accomplished works, showcasing his masterful storytelling and vivid characterizations. It is a richly detailed portrait of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the decadent and glamorous world of 19th-century Venice.This was an untenable position. Cataneo, who only looked for a duchess, thought himself ridiculous as a husband; and, when Massimilla complained of this indifference, he calmly bid her look about her for a cavaliere servente, even offering his services to introduce to her some youths from whom to choose. The Duchess wept; the Duke made his bow.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.