Compromising relationships: a study of the family structures in Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine and their on-screen adaptations

Merrick, Katherine Anne (2015). Compromising relationships: a study of the family structures in Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine and their on-screen adaptations. University of Birmingham. M.A.

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Abstract

This study seeks to explore the concept of family structures and relationships both in Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine and its modern film and cinematic adaptations. The theme of family is prominent throughout La Comédie Humaine in a wide variety of forms, but, easier to overlook, are the compromises on which these family structures rely. For the purpose of this study, I have selected three case-study novels which explore different aspects of family and analysed both the novels and a modern television or cinematic adaptation of each in order to consider both compromise in La Comédie Humaine and compromise in the context of adaptation. The case study novels I have analysed are Le Père Goriot, Eugénie Grandet and La Duchesse de Langeais. Chapter One on Le Père Goriot focuses on the concept of fatherhood undermined and the role of the son-in-law. Chapter Two on Eugénie Grandet continues an exploration of parent-child relationships in the context of a ‘traditional’ family unit. Finally, Chapter Three on La Duchesse de Langeais focuses on marriage, adultery and the representation of women.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.A.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.A.

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