The Marquise of O
"The Marquise of O" is a novella written by Heinrich von Kleist, first published in 1808. The story follows a noblewoman, the Marquise, who mysteriously becomes pregnant without knowing the father. Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, the narrative explores themes of honor, societal expectations, and the complexities of human relationships.
As the Marquise seeks to uncover the truth about her condition, she faces judgment and scandal from her family and society. The tale delves into the struggles of a woman caught between her personal desires and the rigid norms of her time, ultimately questioning the nature of morality and autonomy.