Une Pupille Genante

A novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces Jacques Simiès, a wealthy and somewhat jaded epicurean who finds his life turned upside down when he unexpectedly becomes the guardian of his young niece, Gilberte. The narrative explores themes of parental responsibility, individual character development, and the clash of traditional values with the emerging modern world. At the start of the novel, we meet Simiès as he awakens to a typical day filled with the comforts of life, including his valet Lazare and the anticipation of breakfast. His life takes a sharp turn when he discovers that he is now the guardian of his nine-year-old niece, Gilberte, following the death of her parents. As the girl arrives at his home, we see her innocence and vitality clash with Simiès's cynical worldview. The opening sets up a dynamic relationship where Simiès, despite his reluctance to embrace the role of guardian, begins to engage with Gilberte’s spirited nature which promises to challenge his laid-back life. The stage is set for a conflict between his hedonistic tendencies and the moral upbringing he must confront in raising the young girl.