Ceci N'est Pas UN Conte

A narrative written around the late 18th century, specifically between 1772 and 1798. This work is a short story or literary tale that discusses themes of love, sacrifice, and human relationships. It serves as a reflection on the complexities of emotional bonds and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters in the sociocultural context of Diderot's time. The story centers around two main characters, Tanié and Mme Reymer, exploring the consequences of love and ambition. Tanié, a young man deeply in love with the beautiful Mme Reymer, endures hardship and sacrifices for her sake. However, their relationship deteriorates as Mme Reymer’s desire for wealth and social status leads Tanié to leave her in search of fortune, only to return years later, finding her involved with others. Parallel to this, the tale introduces Mlle de La Chaux and her unreciprocated love for the ungrateful Gardeil. Through these intertwining stories, Diderot examines the theme of ingratitude and the sacrifices made by women in relationships, ultimately portraying the often harsh realities of love and the complexities of human emotions.