Publisher's Synopsis
The Blockade of Phalsburg is a historical novel written by Erckmann-Chatrian that takes place during the end of the French Empire. The story is set in the small town of Phalsburg, which is located in the eastern region of France. The town is besieged by the Prussian army during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.The novel follows the lives of the townspeople as they struggle to survive the blockade. The main character is Lieutenant Fritz Reuter, a German officer who is stationed in Phalsburg. He falls in love with the daughter of the town's mayor, Claire de Beaulieu, and the two begin a forbidden romance.As the blockade continues, the townspeople face starvation and disease. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice as the characters fight to stay alive and protect their loved ones. The story also sheds light on the political tensions between France and Germany during this time period.Overall, The Blockade of Phalsburg is a gripping historical novel that offers a vivid portrayal of life during a time of war and political upheaval. It is a timeless story of love and survival that will resonate with readers of all ages.1911. From the Historical Romances of France. Translated from the French of Erckmann-Chatrian. Illustrated. The story begins: Since you wish to know about the blockade of Phalsburg in 1814, I will tell you all about it, said Father Moses of the Jews������� street. I lived then in the little house on the corner, at the right of the market. My business was selling iron by the pound, under the arch below, and I lived above with my wife Sorle (Sarah) and my little Safel, the child of my old age. My other two boys, Itzig and Fromel, had gone to America, and my daughter Zeffen was married to Baruch, the leather-dealer, at Saverne. Besides my iron business, I traded in old shoes, old linen, and all the articles of old clothing which conscripts sell on reaching the depot, where they receive their military outfit. Traveling peddlers bought the old linen of me for paper-rags, and the other things I sold to the country people.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
