Red and Black

"The Red and the Black" is the foundation work of European critical realism in the 19th century. The novel revolves around the protagonist Julien's personal struggle experience and ultimate failure, especially the description of his two loves. It extensively displays "the social atmosphere brought about by successive governments that pressed on the French people in the early 30 years of the 19th century." It strongly criticizes the reaction of the aristocrats during the Restoration Dynasty, the darkness of the church, and the despicable vulgarity and greed of the new bourgeoisie.