The Red and the Black

5W 1979 Stendhal, Franklin Library Edition  Notes  The Red and the Black (Le Rouge et le Noir) by Stendhal is a novel set in post-Napoleonic France, following the ambitious and enigmatic Julien Sorel. The story explores Julien’s rise from a humble background to a position of influence, driven by his desire for social status and personal success. The novel's title refers to the contrasting symbols of the military (red) and the clergy (black), reflecting Julien's internal conflicts and the social struggles of the time. Through Julien's tumultuous relationships and career, Stendhal examines themes of ambition, hypocrisy, and the complexities of social and personal identity. The Red and the Black is celebrated for its psychological depth and its critical portrayal of the societal norms of 19th-century France. Description Red leather hardback edition with gold embossed detailing on front and back cover and spine with gold lettering on spine, gold fore edge, three raised bands, and gray silk bookmark. Pristine Franklin Library edition with illustrations throughout.