The MSW Book Recommendation #46 ;

 She's something else, Or, '...grossly mistaken a view'

”Although slavery had been abolished without debate, throughout the French possessions by National Assembly in 1794, it was reimposed in Martinique and Guadaloupe – though not in Haiti – by Napoleon. These slaves were not finally emancipated until 1848. However, African mistresses of French residents were often manumitted, together with their children, and intermarriage was by no means a rare occurrence. A middle-class Créole population grew up; To this class belonged the Josephine who became the empress of the French on her marriage to the same Napoleon.” ; ...of ”Black Venus”, story by Angela Carter (p1985)

”But of all Discourses, Caesar liked that the worst, and would never be reconciled to our Notions of the Trinity, of which he ever made a jest; it was a Riddle he said would turn his Brain to conceive, and one could not make him understand what Faith was. However, these Converstaion fail'd not altogether so well to divert him, that he like the Company of us Women much above the Men, for he could not drink, and he is but an ill Companion in that Country that cannot. […] 'tis a Continent, whose vast Extent was never yet known, and may contain more noble Earth than all the Universe beside; for, they say, it reaches from East to West one Way as far as China, and anothet to Peru: It affords all Things, both of Beauty and Use; 'tis there ethernal Spring, always the very Months or April, May and June; the Shades are perpetual, the Trees bearing at once all Degrees of Leaves, and Fruit, from Blooming Buds to Ripe Autumn: Groves of Orange, Lemons, Citrons, Figs, Nutmegs, and noble Aromaticks, continually bearing their Fragnancies: The Trees appearing all like Nosegays, adorn'd with Flowers of different Kinds; some are White, some Purple, some Scarlet, some Blue, some Yellow; bearing at the same Time ripe Fruit, and blooming young, or producing every Day new. The very Wood of all these Trees has an intrinsic Value, above common Timber; for they are, when cut, of different Colours, glorious to behold, and bear a Price considerable, to inlay withal. Besides this, they yield rich Balm, and Gums; so that we make our Candles of such aromatic Substance, as does not only give a sufficient Light, but as they burn, they cast their Perfumes all about. Cedar is the common Firing, and all the Houses are built with it.” ; of Oroonoko ; or the Royal Slave, by Aphra Behn ('novel', from 1600ies, cite via Gutenberg)

Ten Years of Exile

by Madame de Stael (1766-1817)

(a memoir, orig. Dix annees d'exil, p. 1818 ; read via Gutenberg.)

[ Recommendation IV / 2015 ]

; Seems that we'll having a couple of madames on these subsequent posts. This first one, about Madame de Staël [Anne Louise Germaine de Stael-Holstein]. The author was renown to writer of fiction, but also produced more 'serious' books on her times. Her fiction I've actually not read, having (duly) assumed it likely bit out-dated from style or form, at least to any modern taste. Novels Delphine (p. 1802) and Corinne (p. 1807); 'picaresque tour couched in the form of a novel' (X - A note, added on 27.01.2016) , anyway, seem considered to her most celebrated creations. Also, of/from the fiction by that period, of early- or mid-romantic, I can only say it seems characteristically most often quite filled by over-sentiment and dramatique. Yet, maybe is noteworth say that much of better sort fiction, from that era, seems wrote by women...maybe due because major female novelist(s) more commonly only around then begin appear, for some novelty of the time. (At least seems to me so...)

; On her case more particularly, viewing the overall content of the said novels brought me some feelin' of resemblance merely for creations by Goethe (J.W., 1749-1832) – At least some (seeming) similarities from an aesthetic sophistication, perhaps also certain resembling 'worship' of classic italian 'antique ideals' (ie, the comparison especially to Goethe's Italian travel-memoir, Das Italienische reise, of 1770s. And so I also just suppose her fiction writing, probably, might reflect bit less of the romantic sentiment and, maybe characteristically, more of an observance.)  Also then, (perhaps) it proper consider her main sources of inspiration maybe derived of Herder (J.G., 1844-1803) too, ...plus any additional influences from via the German aesthetic romantic-philosophic tradition (at the turn of century, early 1800ies). Of intellectual background seems she said from had 'combined' Rousseauism (popular at the time) and constitutionalism. Also, soforth (her) ' ...own preference for moderate republic or a constitutional monarchy were quite sincere...' 

 

[Pic;] Johann Gottfried (von) Herder - Noted major influential figure, along w. Rousseau, to later emergence of the romantical literature/-aesthetics (...plus, likewise, early beginner to study of the folk songs, national romantic too, maybe, ...and what else.) 

; But the above said just of the reason why this recom intended keep rather brief and simple – You can't actually say much, argumentably, from any writer you've only very limitedly read. ; ...Another good argument favoring us keep this to some limits I did find via a famous historical 'anecdote' by Dr Johnson (Samuel, 1709-84), that I recently just happened glance, goes about (smtgh like): 'man may work anytime if he sets himself on the task doggedly'. As I think we have not any especielt purpose of writing too comprihensive biographies here, our interest would have to be set on certain limits. So a few picks, of here and there, mostly...

Amongst (the many) recalled details about Madame de Stael, there is, ao, the fact that after her death she was selected for (some) contemporary author biography, accompanying various other presented authors (of the 1800ies, or prior times) – The referred book having carried for its name smtgh like 'The great men of 19^th century'. ...That might feel rather funny by now, but one may also wonder whether she'd herself had found anything exceptional, peculiar, amusing or even surprising on that (compliment). For, in the circumstances of the time and the social life/atmospheres, usual manner or almost only way for women to achieve a social position, was via the marriages or other similar 'commitments'. Already priorly there of course had been a lot capable, learned women writers and otherways influential personnel, practically of course only from the women by noble birth – but until that time them merely remained for some rarities (,and to some time still did remain). ; Probably more interesting (to mention), also that Mde de Stael seems been merited not only for a skillful writer, but also from been very capable speaker – And the speech, probably, even more specifically than any written word (letters, books, journals) was by the time seen, in particular, a 'manly' region.

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; ...Of a few (accompanying) readings of mine, I then fx picked the following sentences/short narrative about the youthful years of Necker's daughter (ie this authoresse here discussed)...Perhaps it a bit 'ideal' depiction but serves my purposes from describing her early years. Mainly it a description about Mde Suzanne Neckar's (her mother) salong, which - like many resembling kind, during the pre-revolutionary times - provided places of stay and discussion lead by several notable, merited figures. The salon's were hosted by upper-class women and, of course, there was some (limited) rivalry btw the places. ; ...Shortly put, coffee and teas served, important matters discussed. Each place seems also said of had certain 'weekly schedule' on times when some of their (most) important guests visited. Noticeably, at pre-revolutionary France, salons also were not simply just a continuation of court and it's aristocratic circles, but them hosted more or less debated figures and the freer opinions (plus their expression) was permitted, even common. (While during the last decades prior – so called - Great Revolution of the 1789, also any respectfulness towards the 'ruling few' already seems said from have inflated enormously. People fx did gather on streets, etc., too, and the openly circulated gossip concerning the 'elite' was more of a regularity than any rarity. Seems it also sometimes noted that fragmentation of the old values on society was so much widespread, and well on it's way by the time (latter part from 1700s), that formerly 'protected' merits such as (lower) noble titles sometimes were released and could be bought, fx. ..but that's mostly out from the scope of this.) The main concern here was provide some insight on early years of hers, so the cited:

”...The two spent most of their life in Paris and married their daughher to a swede. …It was the dawn of a golden age for financiers, who in fact already controlled society but who, if they hoped to win the respect that was still only grudgingly accorded them, did best to entertain guests and subsidize artists. Mme. Necker therefore devoted her energies to establishing a salon. […(like said) plenty similar upper class socialising 'salons' on Paris existed to various authors, philosophers, ao, visit and converse of popular matters, etc.] ...it is hard to see how authors running from salon to salon ever found time to work. But in a world without radio or television, where else could they publicize their works or obtain financial backing?

…Germaine became the central attraction of the Necker salon, outshining even her mother. She disrupted the conversations that Mme. Necker so conscientiously organized with her diligently kept notes. While the 'fundamental discussion' went on among the great men in attendence, Germaine chatted with lesser personages in a corner of her own. But her talk was so interesting and witty that one after another of the great men – Buffon, Marmontel, Grimm, Diderot, Gibbon, Bernardin de Saint-Pierre – left the group they were supposed to be part of in order to be with her. Her answers to their questions drew still other guests.

...Even after her marriage to the Swedish ambassador in 1786, Germaine remained a fixture of her mother's salon. The only difference was that now she was known as Mme. De Staël. ” ; 'From conversation to creation' (C. Dulong), on A History of Women III. Renaissance and Enlightenment, ed. Zemon Davis, Farge, p1993. (; p. 418-9.)

; ...Or at least (smgth) like that historical the 'inbriefing' would make us believe. History anyway seems then afterwards 'merited' Mdme (de Stael) w. a nickname of 'Lady de Wit'. ; ...Made me perhaps also (a little) wonder whether the said depiction about her exceptional social 'upbringing', from some part, yet could've had for origins a certain deliberately 'arranged scene' by her mother (Albeit, of course, I've not any knowledge of what the sources to this anecdote). ...But, quite as easily, one might fx assume if some amongst the said famous 'celebrity intellects', Bernardin Sainte-Pierre just happened been bored on his companions, and therefore decided from enchant himself w. company of her intellects (Of the said figures many seem been from an older generation. Some, at least Grimm and Diderot, also ”anti-Rousseauist” by opinion, and therefore probably rather opposing for views held by Sainte-Pierre's adored philosopher, already dead by the time.)  ...'Suppose at least the Buffon, Diderot, Marmontel (Jean-Francois, a historian, encyclopedist, 1723-1799) also were rather aged 'horses' by the decade this situates, 1780s,  perhaps not so responsive from been directly attracted for (her) charms and wits. This speculation of course also assumes Sainte-Pierre from been some regular figure/guest of the place. (Which I don't think so likely. ...And, not that these assumptions would be of any importance as such. But the story holds certain...'historical grandeur'. Better be cautious.)

; In brief, seems notable that ('Lady de Wit') enjoyed rather privileged position in her youth compared to most – The rich upbringing, education/discourse w. acknowledged personnel, (various) social benefits, plus favors of the court. (Even though Necker, the former finance minister on royal France, and his family had to leave a country temporarily, to a few years time.) Not that this kind encouragement and concern on daughter's education would've been of especially exceptional. During the time ideas brought by the Enlightenment concerning education and various accompanying 'learned pursuits' gained in importance, probably slowly but surely. (The above referred text also fx mentions Mde de Miremont from had written on topic and '...proposed a system of schooling girls from ages seven to eighteen.', ao, etc...)

 

; As well, notable, that until this (period of time) nobility generally paid not very much attention on any educational benefits, or scholarly traits. That so because they didn't have to. Most didn't care for, as there was not any apparent uses for 'educated pursuits', or any 'competitive threats' for these said privileged classes. (Military careers also seem said from actually been more common a choice to younger sons from nobel families than an education. Besides the education often also mostly offered only via the church.) In short, until that most members of high social standing, probably had not felt any need from educate themselves (With many notable exceptions, of course.) Neither their children, or, if they did, home-teaching probably was most favored choice. ; Yet an important notable aspect, reading is said from had emerged for a more widely accepted/appreciated habit amongst any (literate) social classes.

; ...Goes also w. this then also to refer on some 'popular wisdom' about that the ruling classes on any society – maintained by hereditary-systems, via privileges, of techno-byrocratism, any manner - mostly are just as slow to follow the changes of their own times and just as stupid as their (said) privileged position would make one guess. ...The pre-revolutionary France some main example about, or seems it often so concluded. Unlike (maybe) common belief I think it not so much a question of competition, but of resources.

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(From a few other aspects...) ; Mainly I selected the said text as I had not available the Considerations sur le révolution francaise...(the original name, transl. smght like 'Reflections on the french revolution', p. 1818 - It too seems published only after her death.) ; ...My interest on that, perhaps, was from reason it seems written quite close after the above referred 'period of change' – ca, on the 1810ies. ...But, since any translation wasn't available - and I'm not too sure whether I'd still yet even bothered to read it, my interests on this appears not too specific – Selection therefore was on this memoir. (At least it available on translation.) 

 

[The pic, on  the right ; ...I of course bothered to a bunch of other reads, partly, from to 'outline' myself some general idea of times this discusses about - Or, what I had available, some pile of the books...]

; However, the first main 'reservation' I noted on this discussed memoir, I therefore 'had to select', was that text seems edited and published only post-humously (by her son.) So it perhaps therefore not quite clear whether one could even consider it for any ultimate, finalized text by hers. Yet, for the most part feels quite consistent, while often somewhat fragmentary. Subsequently, and curiously enough, I also noted my own main concern settling merely not so much for what Mde de Stael seems wrote (on her travel-memoir), but to how she seems written it. ; ...'cause it seems also sometimes noted to have influenced, some part, for the later view/image about Napoleon (the famous emperor, pro-consul, dictator, 1769-1821. ...But, I guess, that this view also might a bit exaggerate, the importance of her written memoir on that.) ; Yet, one wouldn't probably think her judging from the Napoleon's character too misleading. At least, seems her of to have blackguarded the correct persona – inspite his renown and fame, man was considered for tyrant and despot by other contemporaries too. Also for oppressor to many liberal developments that had emerged prior the early 1800ies (View fx the quoted words on above this text...).  ; Yet, it also is fx said de Stael, for the most part, actually wasn't around that 'court' held by Napoleon, due because of been exiled by the emperor himself (First to some 40 km distance of Paris, later completely away from country.) ...Usual view also on that seems say that Napolean didn't tolerate any attentions outshining his own glory. Most credible an interpretation or not, at least Mdme Stael also continuosly stresses that aspect on her memoir. (But it's probably useless here to discuss about that more in particular. Not having read of that any manner in particular, etc...)

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; The memoir (Ten years of Exile), even if not completely finalised version, is mostly quite profiently written a story w. many memorable passages of places and peoples she visits. Seems it built quite skillfully to tear down any 'pomp and circumstance' around the (her) hated emperor's persona – and on that she might've taken any possible traits of the literary skills on aid of hers ...In fact, seems it has some effect on her own character too, transmitted via text, and to a level, the other peoples described on it too. Namely, that said exaggeration makes the story and said characters attain (sometimes) almost Dumasian characteristics , or 'qualities' - That the second 'reservation' on text; her narration from events feels rarely (/not always)completely free of that. ...Merely it meaning that parts of the text read closely to a work of fiction, from tone or by style, while actually not much anything appears told as any open, purposeful fictionalisation. (Somewhat typical for the said romantic period, though.) [...and then, I guess it largely/from most part is noticeable at the said 'latter part' of the memoir. ...I actually read those sequels quite some time after than the begins of text, so as restult this also discusses them, mainly. The earliest chapters actually consist more in the story by pages, in general, maybe appear even more consistant by the narration from incidents described. The said fictionalisation is perhaps most apparent at some parts from her references on that historical past, or certain impressions on the places that are seen depicted within the impressions on the said past(s)...]

 

; Text is easiest divide for two separate sections: The first part tells of Madame's stay at the court, then at her residence Coppet('...her father's estate', near Lake Geneva), and, of her early briefer stays elsewhere (ao, England and Germany/Austria). The sequel is rather random by incidents and also suffers of the said continuous targeted accuse of the Napoleon's misdeeds on her. (Scarcely on any other personnel. Fx, I think, she on some place makes a spiteful mention of Napoleon's second wife, but that too only on a few paragraphs, not elsewhere – since her main target always remains the said tyrant and 'oppressor of the nations'.)

; The latter part is mostly about her actual 'exile' throughpast East European countries and Russian region (...apparently acc. her descriptions, which could be little misleading, just prior the Napoleon's armies had invaded the country.) The latter 'part', appears maybe more captivating to read, since her descriptions about tzarist Russia also pay more attention for places and peoples, ao, Napoleon's character not so much in the forefront.

; ...Occasionally she also refers on 'anecdotes of preceding reign', in particular to 'bon-mots of Diderot', which have '...put it into heads of the French that Russia consisted only of corrupted court, military chamberlains, and a people of slaves'. Instead of that she notes, fx 'It cannot be too often repeated, this nation is composed of the most striking contrasts', ao, etc. (But, in fact Diderot had formerly proposed to empress of Russia, Catherine (IInd) an re-arrangement of the lands political system, via (relative) modern democratizing reforms. Nothing realized of that, at least from some part due because of the resistance by the said landsowning class, and - the militia. (...The 'cassocks', or whatever precise term or group this should refer.) ; ...Actually it been my purpose for to add to our series some observations of Diderot, or from other renown figures on Enlightenment, bit in a manner from the earlier recom of Rousseau's writings...but 'suppose it all depends how comprihensively one wishes observe anything from that...)

; ...Occasionally her observations also reflect similarly rather elitist tones. Fx, on a place (closer the latter chapters) she praises the 'lower classes' on their tolerance from cold ('...coachmen wait for ten hours at the gate, during winter, without complaining', 'sometimes they sleep standing', ...etc. And, in some contrast for that, her desciption then follows for to describe the gardens by the rich noble merchant whose house she dines at, ao, etc.) Though the text merely filled from constant praises on the unity of country and its peoples, she also fx mentions the serf-bondage, acknowledging on some place:

”...luxury, power, and courage are the principal objects of pride and ambition; all other methods of acquiring distinction [emphasize added.] appear as yet effeminate and vain to this nation.

But the people are slaves, it will be said: what character therefore can they be suppressed to have? It is not certainly necessary for me to say that all enlightened people wish to see Russian people freed from this state, and probably no one wishes it more strongly than the emperor Alexander: but the Russian slavery has no resemblance in its effects to that of which we form the idea in the West; it is not as under the feudal system, victors who have imposed severe laws on the vanquished; the ties which connect the grandess with the people resemble rather what was called family of slaves among the ancients, than the state of serfs among the moderns. There is no middling-class ...” (,which appears to her, 'great drawback to literature and arts') 

; ...Quite resemblingly on elsewhere places some 'glorified pasts' and present are often contrasted (fx see the following), but noticeably her writing quite often also often features some arguments and historical references, so she's not just too one-sidedly telling about incidents or expressing her own views from (fx; ”Persons have been pleased to say that freedom was not reclaimed in Europe before the last century; on the contrary, it is rather despotism, which is a modern invention. Even in Russia the savagery of the peasants was only introduced in the sixteenth century.”)

; ...Perhaps she also, on this said period, might've considered the above presented interpretations (of the histories) for some sort 'real politik' (by her time of her exile/journey, war broken out, etc...) ; Then, fx the times of the Peter I, and Catherine the IInd (...btw, both in the history books usually accompanied w. the suspectable addit 'the great') must have then still represented (quite) recent periods. Yet – feels to me - merely she on her comments on modernization on their time reflects anything she'd read – anyhow, I think, her observations, sometimes, are more interesting to read 'between the lines' - fx; '...Had Peter I. directed similar undertakings toward the South of his empire, he would not have obtained what he wished, a navy;' - and, elsewhere: '...oaks, a rare production in this country, overshadow the garden.' ...But that just noted in passing. ; ...Basically her 'flatteries' on that period reigned tsarevits (Alexander the first , app. czar during her time of stay, having reigned on y. 1801 – 1825.) and of his royal family, appear the perhaps most boring parts on text. ...Of course, I don't say that Alexander wouldn't been a quite liberal ruler. Likely he was, perhaps even advanceful, yet perhaps not quite so much. ;  And, as I read not any general histories for backgrounds of it, I've merely here reflected her views by an overall impression. In direct contrast to those bitter attacks on bonaparteism and that era of the 'new despotism', the observations on Russia are a rather neutral, almost uncritical (But not completely one-sided, one would say.) ; Yet, in overall the tone not overwhelmingly for any transparent aristocratic elitism. General impression (one has) is that her descriptions remain shallow of and from any class-equalities, fx, mainly because almost everything is told via the people she is accompanied with – ie the privileged some.

; ...As our former presented referred travel-book (...see, if wish, from Bookrecom 43) contained a few passages describing the Northern landscape, namely of Norway and Sweden, I considered on this a brief quote of (her) journey past the south coast of Finland (near the end of story). But possibly here no place for any further cites, and, anyway it easily readable of the memoir itself. (Book ends quite abruptly, btw.)

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; So...sort comparable to our formerly presented 18^th century lady-travellesse, but not on every manner. Apparently not quite similarly any femininesse forerunner, but politico-cultural educatesse. Not any boresse, and sort of civilizesse. Likely not overt pugnacielt arrogantesse, but some sort aristocratesse. Perhaps rich baronesse if not even a duchesse. Certainly courteous, yet most probably not any courtesan. Some mistresesse, who (likely) could cite from memory fx Vergilio, Ovid, Homer. (...in the mean time, while mainly buzy of writing a few chapters from German high romantique.) …But the 1^st marriage was failure by a view from both participants; Whether it then was from too rare of the 'bon nuits', or whether man merely was too much 'bon homie' to her liking. (Anyhow, he was considerably older. ...After it dissolved seems she herself had a few younger alternates, perhaps it marks some sort aristocratique maneresse, too.) ; Friendships during the later years seem included notorious honorous Lord Byron (poet, 1788-1824.) ...that noted, her portrait seems bear lots of typical details of the time, having a bit byronesquen impression...maybe. Sort of heiress too (Circumstances considered, that in all sense of bona fidesse.) Sort of travelin' gypesse (...but only via characteresse physiognomique, possibly not by her own will either.) ; Not to forget she a merited authoresse, historiquesse.

...More in particular, when searching bits and pieces to this small 'story', I quite came to recognize her character to hold much of a certain ambivalence. Guess'll it's quite common impression from any historic person one might study. It all also has somewhat much to do with the anxiousness of those times she lived (The Napoleonic wars, and probably from other aspects. Seems had a lot effect on book by several otherways too, like noted earlier.) Most apparent is her been recognized for an advanced and liberal by ideas, even non-conformist,and valued of intellect, also did write a few romantic aesthetic novels (At time were quite classics, probably, but maybe not so much a most favored reading of any middlebrow public. By now, of course, largely forgotten.) Her tone of writing a lot reflects rather much the typical romantist tone, yet the memoir also far more ambitious than just any plain narrative. (Namely from purpose to establish a view in combining the present events and happenings to that 'cultivated' historism.) ; ...All that said then also awakes certain interest on her other writings. (Like said, this text being more or less fragmentarist.) But I cared not, on this particular chapter. (; W-G.)

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A NOTE (X) :

; '...so formidable a green-stocking', 

or, bit more than just a 'picaresque'  

; But now I have (I mean, read her fiction too)...Even if it only from Corinne, or Italy (novel of 1807). I designed to add this note, perhaps, largely due from finding Mde de Stael quite lot studied/hobbyed since her 'rediscovery' at the 1980s (about) and prior text then likely left various aspects aside mention. 

 

; ...Would possibly, been for most use paging through some more modern study or biography about her. I not checked whether there would been anything proper available, however...And, besides; Online-source [Gutenberg] neither seemed not providin me anything else translated for plain English. ; ...But ain't that (how) sad, us seem apparently then left on own! Well, the worse for everybody else, for starters then just a quite randomsome observations, of here and there.

; Of Corinne, we shall first mention, the book indeed very quality some of it's kind old fiction. Technically skillfull, mastered novel and from some artistic 'sophistication'.

...I mean, if you like that type of text, early-/mid-romantic literature, (smght) what the imaginable 'common-place' modern reader might – possibly – most easily interpret to a rather over-dramatical, over-passionate kind. - But, guess'll must as well mention from having only limitedly read any comparable femine early 1800s 'high society' fictions. ; My fewsome reads from all that, consist maybe only from Fanny d'Arblay-Burney, (1752-1840. ...Burney's 1788-novel, Cecilia, is said from influenced later followers plenty; In overall it yet still a bit conventional a story.) And, Jane Austen (1775-1817), whose iconic novels, (fx Pride and Prejudice, p. 1813) nowadays appear renown, ao, via their steadily repeated filmatisations. (Seems also her having died on very same year than de Stael. ...As well noted seems that her social level probably was closer to the high middle-class than actual aristocracy. Generally, suppose it must've meant, during that period of great social changes from main aspect, just less wealth and landownings. Although (likely) the traditional class-barriers weren't in similar rate fallin' apart on Austen homelands than at the post-revolution era France.) ; ...But, actually Austen's novels I've not even read.

; ...Of de Stael's popularity during some past decades (as the subject for various studies), I noted then it fx inspired this old (about 1980s) compilation of her main texts; Extraordinary woman. Selected writings. Seems contain various selections of (her) fiction and non-fiction, fx. incl. some early works, like Zulma, p. 1794. ; And then is fx the tragedy, Jane Grey, wrote 1795. (Although Germaine's own conception about the early novellas seems been quite underrating, 'youhtful experiments', or smght similar).

; Basically, on Mde de Steal, one would expect plentitude material at net – Yet, my very 'quick search' (not done from any arduous manner...) failed to provide much. What I then noted, was fx this. ; Seems it, ao, inform her to have suffered 'nervous collapse by the age of 12'. (To a direct consequence from her exceptionally studious early youth.) – And the relations to her mother seem said from never quite recovered. (Some proof on about how misguided those bright educational ideas of the time could turn out in practice?) On anycase, seems that maybe too somewhat explanating her later actions, sort from social 'rivalling' of her mothers. ; ...Additionally seemed (then) noted about her hovering temperaments,her from to suffered about manic depression, at adult age. (...Cons. that was the period of romanticism and the exaggerated sensations/behaviours common-place, maybe social code might also from had favored that kind of moods, more or less.)

Some assumptions – on someplaces having read as a view – about her use of narcotics (opium), as an explanation (for previous said), feels quite unreliable. That I think so due fx because of the amount from her worked texts. (I-o-w, at least seems not likely from any early developed addiction.) ;...Not that any narcotic habit would've been a rarity by the time, either. There were - if only few - writers that maintained relative studious and ordinary writing-life along their opium-addiction. ...Such as Thomas de Quincey, 1785-1859, his narrative, Confessions of the English Opium-eater (p. 1822) perhaps best renown. (; By the time efforts of the East India Trade Company, had also already established a hidden market of narcotics, likely. And even if any domestic sales on Europes weren't by scale any manner comparable to more renown historical example about China - Where the continuous supply of the cheap (illegally traded) opium as exchange for country's valued exports had by the y. 1839 created a mass from 'some 12 and half million opium-addicts.' ; That maintained pouring of narcotics for China market on 1800s trade system seems contained a targeted effort to force country for open it's earlier strickt closed internal market to foreign trade. Sounds anyhow familiar? ...One might think, if wish, at least certain resemblance to those news of the 1990s/2000s. (Some about from the Chinese urban natures and countrysides changes during the said period of a rapid fuelled economic growth. ...I-o-w, those stories from sweat-shops and factories, hi-tech and low-tech, all else relevant. And the generally less-common newsed lot from actual high costs, considering the health, natures, and, fx local rivers as well. Coal-smoke filled towns and bad airs, as result from the less strict standards at industries.) ; Not necessary that it would serve as an example to any exact direct similarity...Or elseways, fx notable that during the said 19^th century there wasn't any talks about raisin' peoples of their poverty, at least concerning any foreign some. (Any of those masses from addicts simply were victimized in the demand of that trade, and, due because massive profits it permitted.)

; ...Anyway, from an European part (in the era discussed) the opium probably had a visible and non-visible existence – bit similar as the modern fashionable drugs nowadays have – often ruining the individuals, from bodies and minds, and as result not from any accepted customs generally. Also, the drug use (opium), amongst any classes, probably was on during that early 19^th century probably more common than at any later era.

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; But cons. the actual topic (Mde de Stael) here...I kind recall from seen two kinds of views of her relations on that late age lover, Rocca. The other about a harmonious some, and then that description of merely that casual romantic, melancholic 'flicker'. Seems also true that the affair with (Benjamin) Constant, 1767-1830, lasted longer than most her 'affairs'. (Of which many were unmarital.) Constant also seems represented her 'intellectual equal', so to say. (...If one then think that sort academy 'peer-merit', from an argument pro any assumptions, honest said (such) worth nothing much.) - Yet, usually appears noted also that much from de Stael's political activity was carried via Constant (Women had no places on national assembly, or whatever it's officielt name by then, ca 1795). They at least also shared common opinion and that 'constitutional liberalism', contra the more reactionary politics of the 'traditional' monarchist parties. ; Of other relationships worth mention also her liaison w. Narbonne, no doubt a bit obscured of circumstances/time surrounding. Anyway, proved quite temporary. (But let's leave the subject, non-important on this actually.)

; On Corinne, I guess, we orginally meant devote most of our attentions here...; It maybe not surprises the story's 'heigh-point' being situated where Oswald (Novels 'hero', as an 'antihero' sounds not very proper at this.) is ordered, along his regiment, to the West Indies. Almost from that exact place in the story, they also go separated, of geographically and 'physically'. (West Indies as place itself isn't described in the novel - practically not at all except via Oswald's narrated 'heroism', on the depictions from how he exposed his life there continually, and was greatly ”...admired by his soldiers.” ; and how, ”...so close to death he though he was less guilty.”, etc. (Corinne; p.371.) ; ...There are also lenghty passages from that antique ruins exploration by Corinne, 'the raven-haired poetess', and Oswald (Most of that set on Rome in the book). ...It maybe felt frustrating acc. the tastes of (most) modern readers. Probably wasn't quite so in the pasts when the tourism and travel weren't nearly so usual habits. Those drivings (on Corinne's chariots) also make an important part from novels overall structure. Seem it said from actually setting the novels motion, and appears it then also been compared on the emergence of that new modern century speed and 'haste'. Their 'ramblings' in the story, sort of, keep incidents goin', as there is actually quite little incident on the plot itself.

; ...Yet, I probably find most use on relying at novel's obervations on the Introduction (Isbell), on my acquired copy from that Corinne, or Italy (ie books Oxf. 2008 repr.) ...Could've of course picked more of it for this (It being well informative.) ; ...About other sources, I then at least glanced this, for it lists several of her main important non-fiction works. Seems (the last mentioned) contain references from the causes of that exile of hers, that were perhaps left unmentioned at the above text - Namely that from her 1810-book (d'Allemagne), inspired Napoleon from having 'ordered the proof sheets destroyed'. ...And, that resulting her (remaining therefore no more secure on Switzerland) decision from the described journey through Europes 1810-13.

(By the time from publication of the Corinne, or Italy, the reaction hadn't been nearly so severe as the: ”Emperor's shackled press was milder than it had been for Delphine [ie her earlier novel]...”(; Isbell; p. IX), ...even that Napoleon then renewed the order from exile.)

; Isbell also notes from book's succees, and of de Stael's, her been among those authors who '...were read throughout Romantic Europe: Stael, Scott, Byron, and Goethe.' (; p.I)...Within notion from any list being merely generalized category, I guess that comprises smght. - Also seems it say recognized as the first fiction creation which celebrated an artist (poet, author, or sim.) to it's main character (to hero or heroine) : ”In fact, almost nothing before Corinne, or Italy had put any exceptional creartive genius, man or woman, so gloriously centre stage: even Faust is no artist. ...Byron wrote Childe Herold in 1812, five years after Corinne.” (; p. xv); ...Even if that not all of it, reception at her own time is said been most successfull too, as we learn it having went for: ”...thirty-two French editions in forty-years, 1830-70: it stands among romanticism seminal texts:” (; p. x) 

 

; ...Probably, one has to mention that (seems) there some argument pro the said 'first reservation' presented on above text. Accordingly, her son Auguste, indeed seems said from have edited and somewhat recorrected text by the time from it's appearance, at the Restoration-era (ca 1816-). For example, (her); ”...Oevres complètes of 1820, supervised by Madame de Stael's son Auguste, contains about 150 further corrections [cons. novel Corinne]. It is not known whether he introduced them on his own initiative or was perhaps using notes left by his mother. [and remarks also that] ...he was ready to make extensive corrections of the works published posthumously... ” (; 'Note on the text', by Raphael.) ...So, seems it (perhaps) still quite safe from assuming that on the Ten Years of Exile the said changes of (relative) minor importance on her writing. ...And quite similarly from novel, Corinne. ...(I think) so due because the book must contain about some 10 000 or more words, or about so. (That said, seems also noted on my edition acquired that the source-text esp. select of the edition/manuscript nowadays considered to her most 'authentic form of the text'.)

; ...Now, my 'observations' seem leave largely out discussion, fx most of her considerable influence/connections to politics (via Constant mainly, but from that period btw 1813-5 too.) What described (Isbell; p. I) followingly: (de Stael) ”...exercised a concrete political power of which Europe's other Romantics, except perhaps Chateaubriand, could only dream.” ; Likewise, here not any exact comparison btw their 'dual novels', Corinne (p. 1807) , and Constant's Adolphe (written 1806, but not publ. until 1816. ...To a novel it maybe less impressive, but fx Isbell notes it for; '...about a man too weak to leave a woman he has stopped lovin'.) ; And, guess it might be added that perhaps the bit pointed remarks at original text from her 'aristocratism' (,on certain level) felt sufficient from me discussin' that not on this note. (Basically, quite similar observations could easily be picked of views expressed by almost any liberal upper-class 'libertine' from that time/century.)

; ...Afterwards thinkin', would've of course been less confusing start of any other from her writing than of that Dix Annee's...For, considering her character and histories, almost any other text would've probably offered more reliable perspectives/a view (Due of the aspects already lot referred at these text.) ; And, indeed, feels it then also quite difficult from imagining de Stael as persona, or as character, for that followed Restoration-era (ca 1815-20, about). A period when that aged 'puppeteer'-monarch, Louis XVIII, was raised to rule in the short-lived re-establishment of the Bourbon-reign.

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Historians seem often stated (perhaps not anymore) early decades from the 1800s, to a period/era when the 'old century still kept goin on' and a new era from the industrialism (at least on Northern continents), ao changes, was only on it's 'infancy'.

; (So, just prior that 'modernity' begins, at 1817 Mde de Stael dies.) ...And, from after the said early 'pre-industrialization' years all kinds of new inventions emerge: steam (as a functioning energy, fx powering the transcontinental traffic...around from ca 1840s), coal-heating, the chemistry (perhaps from a bit later timings), Humboldt's return's of his voyages - 'all' from the 'New World' been journeyd/cartographed, vulcanism becomes more profound researched, the evolutionary theory (bit later too), the early socialists, universal suffrage... And just prior that 'hastening' modernization, on the y. 1818, sees light also Frankenstein, the novel. (Written by another 'sibylline mother', and upper-class libertine, Mary Shelley.) This comparable romantic book, then settles on latter memory for even more unique piece-of-fiction.; ...If one then cares think for some apparent similarity btw (those) books I think the foremost being that both appear very philosophical novels (Actually, almost feels it would be more correct 'situate' them for some other category than fiction/novel...)

; Finally, most suitable end my observations from her writings to a brief cite from Corinne, or Italy. ; ”...Man has become familiar with the nature everywhere, however, and the roads he has opened up climb mountains and go down in the ravines. No longer is anything inaccessible to him except the great mystery of himself...” (; p. 277) - It quite well said. The said period (turn of the 1800s) been really a time of greater change. ; Related to all the above we might also quote: ”Corinne has led a mythic life independent of her creator and her text much as Frankenstein's less fortunate creation has taken the doctor's name in popular mythology.” (Isbell; p XI) Maybe so. ...Even if her 'ghostly' literary existence, pervading past the few centuries writings and fictions, then has been of less visible sort. Maybe it better that way, too. (; W-G.)

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