The Duel and The Romance of Duelling
The Duel by Joseph Conrad is a masterful novella that delves into the complexities of human nature, particularly in the context of the European Wars.
The story revolves around the obsessive feud between two officers, D’Hubert and Feraud, who engage in a series of duels over a period of sixteen years. This relentless pursuit of honor and revenge is a testament to the destructive power of egoism and the devastating consequences of an unyielding adherence to a code of honor.
The novella is a work of historical fiction that skillfully captures the spirit of the epoch, immersing the reader in the tumultuous world of early nineteenth-century Europe. Conrad’s vivid descriptions of the Napoleonic Wars and the dueling culture of the time are meticulously researched and presented in a way that is both engaging and informative.
The Folio Society edition of “The Duel and Other Tales” published in London in 2003 is a valuable edition that showcases Conrad’s work in a unique and captivating way. This edition features illustrations by Francis Mosley, which add an additional layer of depth and visual interest to the narrative. The hardback binding is bound in full dark-blue cloth, making it a beautiful addition to any book collection.
The Folio Society edition is particularly notable for its high-quality production and attention to detail. The illustrations by Francis Mosley are a perfect complement to Conrad’s writing, capturing the essence of the characters and the historical context in which the story takes place. The edition is also a testament to the enduring appeal of Conrad’s work, as it continues to captivate readers with its thought-provoking themes and engaging narrative.
In conclusion, “The Duel” by Joseph Conrad is a powerful and thought-provoking novella that explores the complexities of human nature and the destructive power of egoism. The Folio Society edition of “The Duel and Other Tales” published in London in 2003 is a valuable edition that showcases Conrad’s work in a unique and captivating way, making it a must-have for any book collector or enthusiast of Conrad’s work.
Noteworthy is also Ridley Scott’s film, adapted for the big screen with some variations, especially the ending, still an appreciable film, and after Barry Lyndon, among the few films to vividly portray the nineteenth century, the most refined century in all of known human history up to this moment.
Perhaps useful to know that The Duellists has been remastered in High Definition some years ago.
But to tell it all the true story is another, and this , the real story, is written down in The Romance of Duelling by Andrew Steinmetz, first published in 1868
The Romance of Duelling in All Times and Countries is a two-volume set that explores the history and cultural significance of duelling across various times and countries. The book is a comprehensive collection of stories, anecdotes, and historical accounts of duels, providing a unique perspective on the practice of duelling in different eras and societies.
The true story of Fournier (Feraud) and Dupont (D’Hubert) is indeed told in these volumes by Andrew Steinmetz, covering indeed the historical account of the two French officers, Franois Louis Fournier and Pierre Dupont, who engaged in 17 duels over two decades. In real life, Dupont was sent not to arrest Fournier, but to deliver a message that triggered the series of duels between them.
#### Editions and Availability
The book has been reprinted several times, with various editions available.
1971 Reprint: This edition is a facsimile of the original 1868 edition, published by Chapman and Hall. It is bound in morocco-backed boards with gilt lettering and decoration.
Classic Reprint: This edition is a paperback reproduction of the original work, published by Forgotten Books in 2018. It includes a year’s access to the company’s online digital material.
#### Significance
The Romance of Duelling in All Times and Countries is a valuable resource for scholars and historians interested in the cultural and social context of dueling. The book provides a unique perspective on the practice of dueling, highlighting its significance in different eras and societies. Its historical significance and cultural importance make it a valuable addition to any library or collection.
