"The Human Comedy" is a novel written by Honoré de Balzac, published in 1846. It is a collection of interrelated stories that depict the lives of various characters in 19th-century France. The work explores themes of society, ambition, and human nature, providing a detailed panorama of French life during that era. The novel is notable for its rich character development and intricate plots. Balzac's intention was to create a comprehensive portrayal of society, which he referred to as a "comédie humaine." This ambitious project laid the groundwork for modern realism in literature and influenced many writers, including Marcel Proust and Charles Dickens.