
ASMODEUS; - OR, - The Devil on Two Sticks. - By ALAIN RENÉ LE SAGE. - WITH A BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICE OF THE AUTHOR, - By JULES JANIN.
Illustrated by TONY JOHANNOT. - [Translated by Joseph Thomas.] - GEORGE ROUTLEDGE AND SONS, - LONDON: BROADWAY, LUDGATE HILL. - NEW YORK: 416 BROOME STREET. - 1879.
TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.
NOTICE OF LE SAGE.
A mischievous spirit roams the bustling streets and salons of eighteenth‑century France, wielding two slender sticks as symbols of his cunning influence. Through his witty observations, the narrative skewers the pretensions of courtiers, scholars, and lovers alike, exposing the absurdities of social ambition with a light, melodic touch. The story’s brisk pace and sparkling dialogue invite listeners to revel in a world where satire dances hand‑in‑hand with comedy.
Translated with care to preserve the original’s lyrical charm, the tale balances sharp irony with genuine affection for its characters. As the devil‑like narrator navigates the glittering yet shallow world of aristocratic intrigue, he offers incisive commentary that feels surprisingly modern. Listeners will be drawn into a lively parade of clever repartee, gentle mockery, and the timeless delight of watching human folly laid bare.
Language
en
Duration
~10 hours (580K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Clare Graham and Marc D'Hooghe
Release date
2016-02-08
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1668–1747
A sharp-eyed satirist of everyday ambition and folly, he helped bring the picaresque novel to a wide European audience. Best known for Gil Blas, The Devil upon Two Sticks, and the comedy Turcaret, he wrote with energy, humor, and a keen sense of social theater.
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