ABBE PREVOST

A tragic love story with a plot like an 18th c Road Movie. Abbe Prevost was a French novelist and journalist. Through his translation of Richardsons work, he introduced English literature into France. He also published a periodical journal besides some novels and short stories.

« Le héros est un fripon et l''héroïne une catin », notait Montesquieu après sa lecture de Manon Lescaut. Et de fait, Manon se fait enlever par le chevalier des Grieux, met douze jours à s''apercevoi

Manon Lescaut is a French novel written by Abbé Prévost. The story follows the passionate and tumultuous love affair between the title character, Manon Lescaut, and her lover, the young Chevalier des Grieux. Set in 18th-century France, the novel explores themes of love, desire, and societal constraints. Manon, a beautiful and captivating woman, is torn between her love for des Grieux and a life of luxury and material comforts. Their love story is marked by a series of ups and downs, including illicit affairs, betrayal, and personal sacrifices. Manon Lescaut is a classic work of French literature that delves into the complexities of human emotions and societal norms of the time. The novel has been adapted into various operas, ballets, and films, and it remains a significant part of the literary canon, known for its portrayal of a passionate and tragic love affair.

Published in 1731, Manon Lescaut (on which the Puccini opera is based) takes as its themes passionate, tragic love, and redemption through suffering. It is the story of the Chevalier des Grieux, a student, who sees Manon as she is being taken to a convent, and instantly falls in love with her. He offers to save her from the convent, and the two young lovers run away to Paris. There follow many adventures and tribulations, throughout which the Chevalier remains steadfastly loyal to his love. summary by Mary Bard