Lost Illusions

Book Review

Honoré de Balzac's novel «Lost Illusions» is one of the key works in the cycle «The Human Comedy». Critics note that this work deeply explores the theme of the destruction of illusions and moral decline in the context of bourgeois society. The protagonist, Lucien Chardon, strives for success and fame but encounters the harsh reality of Parisian life, where his dreams and ambitions are shattered by the corruption and hypocrisy of the surrounding world. Balzac masterfully depicts the social and economic mechanisms that shape society and shows how personal weaknesses and ambitions can lead to tragic consequences. Critics emphasize that the novel is not only a social commentary but also a profound psychological study, revealing the internal conflicts and struggles of the characters. «Lost Illusions» remains relevant today, offering readers a chance to reflect on timeless questions of morality, honesty, and true values.