Adolphe
Roman
📘 About This Book
Benjamin Constant: Adolphe. Roman Entstanden: 1806/07. Erstdruck: 1817. Hier in der Übersetzung von Josef Ettlinger, Halle, Verlag von Otto Hendel, 1898. Neuausgabe. Herausgegeben von Karl-Maria Guth. Berlin 2022. Der Text dieser Ausgabe wurde behutsam an die neue deutsche Rechtschreibung angepasst. Umschlaggestaltung von Thomas Schultz-Overhage unter Verwendung des Bildes: Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, Porträt eines jungen Mannes. Gesetzt aus der Minion Pro, 11 pt. Henricus - Edition Deutsche Klassik GmbH
📖 Summary
Benjamin Constant's classic work Adolphe, made available in this 2022 edition edited by Karl-Maria Guth, presents a profound psychological exploration of love, hesitation, and social entrapment. Originally drafted between 1806 and 1807 and first published in 1817, the narrative follows the internal and external conflicts of its protagonist, Adolphe. Set against a backdrop of European high society, the story delves into the complex dynamics between Adolphe and Ellenore, an older woman with whom he becomes entangled. While Adolphe initially pursues Ellenore with passionate intensity, his affection gradually fades into a sense of duty and psychological exhaustion. Yet, paralyzed by a fear of causing pain and constrained by societal expectations, he finds himself unable to sever the relationship. The text exposes the agonizing reality of a romance sustained purely by pity rather than genuine emotion, demonstrating how social pressure can trap individuals in lives they no longer desire. This concise yet emotionally heavy masterpiece spans a mere 106 pages, allowing readers to experience a concentrated study of human weakness, emotional dependency, and the tragedy of lingering too long in an expired affection. Through the thoughtful editorial presentation from Henricus Edition Deutsche Klassik, which utilizes a German translation originally prepared by Josef Ettlinger and carefully updated to modern standards, the timeless philosophical weight of Constant's creation remains vividly intact for contemporary audiences exploring the depths of romantic disillusionment.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Offers a deeply penetrating psychological analysis of human relationships.
Concise length makes for a focused and impactful reading experience.
Carefully edited text that respects the historical weight of the original work.
Explores timeless themes of social pressure and emotional honesty.
⚠️ Cons
The heavy focus on psychological anguish may feel bleak to some readers.
Pacing leans heavily inward on introspection rather than external plot progression.
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of Adolphe? +
The book was written by Benjamin Constant.
When was Adolphe originally written and published? +
It was drafted between 1806 and 1807 and first published in 1817.
How many pages is this 2022 edition? +
This edition published in Berlin spans 106 pages.
Who edited the 2022 edition of the book? +
The 2022 edition was edited by Karl-Maria Guth.
Whose German translation is utilized in this publication? +
This edition utilizes the translation originally prepared by Josef Ettlinger.
