The Red and the Black

Julien Sorel, an intelligent yet naive young man from a poor background, embarks on a journey filled with ambition and romantic illusions. As he navigates the complexities of early 19th-century French society, he becomes entangled in the manipulative politics of the powerful elite. Through his experiences, the narrative critiques the hypocrisy and materialism of the aristocracy and Catholic clergy, foreshadowing the impending societal upheaval that will challenge their dominance.