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Mon Oncle Jules
Book by De Maupassa
Paperback
First published January 1, 1883
2 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Guy de Maupassant
7,469 books3,036 followersHenri René Albert Guy de Maupassant was a popular 19th-century French writer. He is one of the fathers of the modern short story. A protege of Flaubert, Maupassant's short stories are characterized by their economy of style and their efficient effortless dénouement. He also wrote six short novels. A number of his stories often denote the futility of war and the innocent civilians who get crushed in it - many are set during the Franco-Prussian War of the 1870s.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 10, 2021
gute Kurzgeschichte. Mochte nicht, dass es lowkey open end war… hätte gedacht da kommt noch mehr.
November 29, 2025
Freely available here: https://www.libraryofshortstories.com...
September 1, 2015
A memorable tale of a family that has fallen on hard times, and the hope they hang on to for years that exiled Uncle Jules will return as their saviour.
August 24, 2022
Guy de Maupassant's "Uncle Jules" is a short story of expectations of a family member that falls short.
Story in short - A family outing brings things unknown known.
➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15144
“My family, which came originally from Havre, was not rich. We just managed to make both ends meet. My father worked hard, came home
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15145
late from the office, and earned very little. I had two sisters. “My mother suffered a good deal from our reduced circumstances, and she often had harsh words for her husband, veiled and sly reproaches. The poor man then made a gesture which used to distress me. He would pass his open hand over his forehead, as if to wipe away perspiration which did not exist, and he would answer nothing. I felt his helpless suffering. We economized on everything, and never would accept an invitation to dinner, so as
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15149
not to have to return the courtesy. All our provisions were bought at bargain sales. My sisters made their own gowns, and long discussions would arise on the price of a piece of braid worth fifteen centimes a yard. Our meals usually consisted of soup and beef, prepared with every kind of sauce. “They say it is wholesome and nourishing, but I should have preferred a change. “I used to go through terrible scenes on account of lost buttons and torn trousers.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15153
“Every Sunday, dressed in our best, we would take our walk along the breakwater. My father, in a frock coat, high hat and kid gloves, would offer his arm to my mother, decked out and beribboned like a ship on a holiday. My sisters, who were always ready first, would await the signal for leaving; but at the last minute some one always found a spot on my father’s frock coat, and it had to be wiped away quickly with a rag moistened with benzine. “My father, in his shirt sleeves, his silk hat on his head, would await the
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15157
completion of the operation, while my mother, putting on her spectacles, and taking off her gloves in order not to spoil them, would make haste. “Then we set out ceremoniously. My sisters marched on ahead, arm in arm. They were of marriageable age and had to be displayed. I walked on the left of my mother and my father on her right. I remember the pompous air of my poor parents in these Sunday walks, their stern expression, their stiff walk. They moved slowly, with a serious expression, their bodies straight, their legs stiff, as if something of extreme importance depended upon their appearance. “Every Sunday, when the big steamers were returning from unknown and distant countries, my father would invariably utter the same words: “‘What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?’ “My Uncle Jules, my father’s brother, was the only hope of the family, after being its only fear. I had heard about him since childhood, and it seemed to me that I should recognize him immediately, knowing as much about him as I did. I knew every detail of his life up to the day of his departure for America, although this period of his life was spoken of only in hushed tones. “It seems that he had led a bad life, that is to say, he had squandered a little money, which action, in a poor family, is one of the greatest crimes. With rich people a man who amuses himself only sows his wild oats. He is what is generally
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15168
called a sport. But among needy families a boy who forces his parents to break into the capital becomes a good- for-nothing, a rascal, a scamp. And this distinction is just, although the action be the same, for consequences alone determine the seriousness of the act. “Well, Uncle Jules had visibly diminished the inheritance on which my father had counted, after he had swallowed his own to the last penny. Then, according to the custom of the times, he had been shipped off to America on a
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15172
freighter going from Havre to New York. “Once there, my uncle began to sell something or other, and he soon wrote that he was making a little money and that he soon hoped to be able to indemnify my father for the harm he had done him. This letter caused a profound emotion in the family. Jules, who up to that time had not been worth his salt, suddenly became a good man, a kind-hearted fellow, true and honest like all the Davranches.
❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌spoiler alert
Years ago, Uncle Jules has spent his brother's money but promises to pay him back after he makes good in America, and he writes telling that he is doing well and he has not forgotten to repay but is not ready to do so yet. His brother is waiting in France and has a family who are not well off but keep waiting for this good willed brother, that they have all their faith on. Finally one of his daughters finds a husband who is in hope of Uncle Jules' wealth. The family goes on a boat ride with the newlyweds, when the father and the mother see Uncle Jules selling oysters looking like a bum and knowing for certain now that they money will never come to them. They want to make sure the son in law and daughters are ignorant of this fact. They are disgusted except the narrator, the young son would have liked to talk to his uncle.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15175
“One of the captains told us that he had rented a large shop and was doing an important business. “Two years later a second letter came, saying: ‘My dear Philippe, I am writing to tell you not to worry about my health, which is excellent. Business is good. I leave to-morrow for a long trip to South America. I may be away for several years without sending you any news. If I shouldn’t write, don’t worry. When my fortune is made I shall return to Havre. I hope that it will not be too
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15179
long and that we shall all live happily together . . . .’ “This letter became the gospel of the family. It was read on the slightest provocation, and it was shown to everybody. “For ten years nothing was heard from Uncle Jules; but as time went on my father’s hope grew, and my mother, also, often said: “‘When that good Jules is here, our
position will be different. There is one who knew how to get along!’ “And every Sunday, while watching the big steamers approaching
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15183
from the horizon, pouring out a stream of smoke, my father would repeat his eternal question: “‘What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?’ “We almost expected to see him waving his handkerchief and crying: “‘Hey! Philippe!’ “Thousands of schemes had been planned on the strength of this expected return; we were even to buy a little house with my uncle’s money — a little place in the country near Ingouville. In fact, I wouldn’t swear
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15188
that my father had not already begun negotiations. “The elder of my sisters was then twenty-eight, the other twenty-six. They were not yet married, and that was a great grief to every one. “At last a suitor presented himself for the younger one. He was a clerk, not rich, but honorable. I have always been morally certain that Uncle Jules’ letter, which was shown him one evening, had swept away the young man’s hesitation and definitely decided him.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15192
“He was accepted eagerly, and it was decided that after the wedding the whole family should take a trip to Jersey. “Jersey is the ideal trip for poor people. It is not far; one crosses a strip of sea in a steamer and lands on foreign soil, as this little island belongs to England. Thus, a Frenchman, with a two hours’ sail, can observe a neighboring people at home and study their customs. “This trip to Jersey completely absorbed our ideas, was our sole anticipation, the constant thought of our minds. “At last we left. I see it as plainly as if it had happened yesterday. The boat was getting up steam against the quay at Granville; my father, bewildered, was superintending the loading of our three pieces of baggage; my mother, nervous, had taken the arm of my unmarried sister, who seemed lost since the departure of the other one, like the last chicken of a brood; behind us came the bride and groom, who always stayed behind, a thing that often made me turn round. “The whistle sounded. We got on board, and the vessel, leaving the breakwater, forged ahead through a sea as flat as a marble table. We watched the coast disappear in the distance, happy and proud, like all who do not travel much. “My father was swelling out his chest in the breeze, beneath his frock coat, which had that morning been very carefully cleaned; and he spread around him that odor of benzine which always made me
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15203
recognize Sunday. Suddenly he noticed two elegantly dressed ladies to whom two gentlemen were offering oysters. An old, ragged sailor was opening them with his knife and passing them to the gentlemen, who would then offer them to the ladies. They ate them in a dainty manner, holding the shell on a fine handkerchief and advancing their mouths a little in order not to spot their dresses. Then they would drink the liquid with a rapid little motion and throw the shell overboard.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15206
“My father was probably pleased with this delicate manner of eating oysters on a moving ship. He considered it good form, refined, and, going up to my mother and sisters, he asked: “‘Would you like me to offer you some oysters?’ “My mother hesitated on account of the expense, but my two sisters immediately accepted. My mother said in a provoked manner: “‘I am afraid that they will hurt my stomach. Offer the children some, but not too much, it would
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15210
make them sick.’ Then, turning toward me, she added: “‘As for Joseph, he doesn’t need any. Boys shouldn’t be spoiled.’ “However, I remained beside my mother, finding this discrimination unjust. I watched my father as he pompously conducted my two sisters and his son-in-law toward the ragged old sailor. “The two ladies had just left, and my father showed my sisters how to eat them without spilling the liquor. He even tried to give them an example, and seized an oyster. He attempted
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15214
attempted to imitate the ladies, and immediately spilled all the liquid over his coat. I heard my mother mutter: “‘He would do far better to keep quiet.’ “But, suddenly, my father appeared to be worried; he retreated a few steps, stared at his family gathered around the old shell opener, and quickly came toward us. He seemed very pale, with a peculiar look. In a low voice he said to my mother:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15218
“‘It’s extraordinary how that man opening the oysters looks like Jules.’ “Astonished, my mother asked: “‘What Jules?’ “My father continued: “‘Why, my brother. If I did not know that he was well off in America, I should think it was he.’ “Bewildered, my mother stammered: “‘You are crazy! As long as you know that it is not he, why do you say such foolish things?’ “But my father insisted:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15223
“‘Go on over and see, Clarisse! I would rather have you see with your own eyes.’ “She arose and walked to her daughters. I, too, was watching the man. He was old, dirty, wrinkled, and did not lift his eyes from his work. “My mother returned. I noticed that she was trembling. She exclaimed quickly: “‘I believe that it is he. Why don’t you ask the captain? But be very careful that we don’t have this rogue on our hands again!’
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15228
“My father walked away, but I followed him. I felt strangely moved. “The captain, a tall, thin man, with blond whiskers, was walking along the bridge with an important air as if he were commanding the Indian mail steamer. “My father addressed him ceremoniously, and questioned him about his profession, adding many compliments: “‘What might be the importance of Jersey? What did it produce? What was the population? The customs? The nature of the soil?’ etc., etc. “‘You have there an old shell opener who seems quite interesting. Do you know anything about him?’ “The captain, whom this conversation began to weary, answered dryly: “‘He is some old French tramp whom I found last year in America, and I brought him back. It seems that he has some relatives in Havre, but that he doesn’t wish to return to them because he owes them money.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15235
His name is Jules — Jules Darmanche or Darvanche or something like that. It seems that he was once rich over there, but you can see what’s left of him now.’ “My father turned ashy pale and muttered, his throat contracted, his eyes haggard. “‘Ah! ah! very well, very well. I’m not in the least surprised. Thank you very much, captain.’ “He went away, and the astonished sailor watched him disappear. He returned to my mother so upset that she said to him:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15240
“‘Sit down; some one will notice that something is the matter.’ “He sank down on a bench and stammered: “‘It’s he! It’s he!’ “Then he asked: “‘What are we going to do?’ “She answered quickly: “‘We must get the children out of the way. Since Joseph knows everything, he can go and get them. We must take good care that our son-in- law doesn’t find out.’ “My father seemed absolutely bewildered. He murmured:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15245
“‘What a catastrophe!’ “Suddenly growing furious, my mother exclaimed: “‘I always thought that that thief never would do anything, and that he would drop down on us again! As if one could expect anything from a Davranche!’ “My father passed his hand over his forehead, as he always did when his wife reproached him. She added: “‘Give Joseph some money so that he can pay for the oysters. All that it needed to cap the climax would be to be recognized by that beggar.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15250
That would be very pleasant! Let’s get down to the other end of the boat, and take care that that man doesn’t come near us!’ “They gave me five francs and walked away. “Astonished, my sisters were awaiting their father. I said that mamma had felt a sudden attack of sea-sickness, and I asked the shell opener: “‘How much do we owe you, monsieur?’ “I felt like laughing: he was my uncle! He answered:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15254
“‘Two francs fifty.’ “I held out my five francs and he returned the change. I looked at his hand; it was a poor, wrinkled, sailor’s hand, and I looked at his face, an unhappy old face. I said to myself: “‘That is my uncle, the brother of my father, my uncle!’ “I gave him a ten-cent tip. He thanked me: “‘God bless you, my young sir!’ “He spoke like a poor man receiving alms. I couldn’t help thinking that he must have begged over
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15259
there! My sisters looked at me, surprised at my generosity. When I returned the two francs to my father, my mother asked me in surprise: “‘Was there three francs’ worth? That is impossible.’ “I answered in a firm voice “‘I gave ten cents as a tip.’ “My mother started, and, staring at me, she exclaimed: “‘You must be crazy! Give ten cents to that man, to that vagabond— ‘
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15263
“She stopped at a look from my father, who was pointing at his son-in-law. Then everybody was silent. “Before us, on the distant horizon, a purple shadow seemed to rise out of the sea. It was Jersey. “As we approached the breakwater a violent desire seized me once more to see my Uncle Jules, to be near him, to say to him something consoling, something tender. But as no one was eating any more oysters, he had disappeared, having probably gone below to the dirty
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15267
hold which was the home of the poor wretch.
Story in short - A family outing brings things unknown known.
➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15144
“My family, which came originally from Havre, was not rich. We just managed to make both ends meet. My father worked hard, came home
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15145
late from the office, and earned very little. I had two sisters. “My mother suffered a good deal from our reduced circumstances, and she often had harsh words for her husband, veiled and sly reproaches. The poor man then made a gesture which used to distress me. He would pass his open hand over his forehead, as if to wipe away perspiration which did not exist, and he would answer nothing. I felt his helpless suffering. We economized on everything, and never would accept an invitation to dinner, so as
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15149
not to have to return the courtesy. All our provisions were bought at bargain sales. My sisters made their own gowns, and long discussions would arise on the price of a piece of braid worth fifteen centimes a yard. Our meals usually consisted of soup and beef, prepared with every kind of sauce. “They say it is wholesome and nourishing, but I should have preferred a change. “I used to go through terrible scenes on account of lost buttons and torn trousers.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15153
“Every Sunday, dressed in our best, we would take our walk along the breakwater. My father, in a frock coat, high hat and kid gloves, would offer his arm to my mother, decked out and beribboned like a ship on a holiday. My sisters, who were always ready first, would await the signal for leaving; but at the last minute some one always found a spot on my father’s frock coat, and it had to be wiped away quickly with a rag moistened with benzine. “My father, in his shirt sleeves, his silk hat on his head, would await the
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15157
completion of the operation, while my mother, putting on her spectacles, and taking off her gloves in order not to spoil them, would make haste. “Then we set out ceremoniously. My sisters marched on ahead, arm in arm. They were of marriageable age and had to be displayed. I walked on the left of my mother and my father on her right. I remember the pompous air of my poor parents in these Sunday walks, their stern expression, their stiff walk. They moved slowly, with a serious expression, their bodies straight, their legs stiff, as if something of extreme importance depended upon their appearance. “Every Sunday, when the big steamers were returning from unknown and distant countries, my father would invariably utter the same words: “‘What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?’ “My Uncle Jules, my father’s brother, was the only hope of the family, after being its only fear. I had heard about him since childhood, and it seemed to me that I should recognize him immediately, knowing as much about him as I did. I knew every detail of his life up to the day of his departure for America, although this period of his life was spoken of only in hushed tones. “It seems that he had led a bad life, that is to say, he had squandered a little money, which action, in a poor family, is one of the greatest crimes. With rich people a man who amuses himself only sows his wild oats. He is what is generally
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15168
called a sport. But among needy families a boy who forces his parents to break into the capital becomes a good- for-nothing, a rascal, a scamp. And this distinction is just, although the action be the same, for consequences alone determine the seriousness of the act. “Well, Uncle Jules had visibly diminished the inheritance on which my father had counted, after he had swallowed his own to the last penny. Then, according to the custom of the times, he had been shipped off to America on a
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15172
freighter going from Havre to New York. “Once there, my uncle began to sell something or other, and he soon wrote that he was making a little money and that he soon hoped to be able to indemnify my father for the harm he had done him. This letter caused a profound emotion in the family. Jules, who up to that time had not been worth his salt, suddenly became a good man, a kind-hearted fellow, true and honest like all the Davranches.
❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌spoiler alert
Years ago, Uncle Jules has spent his brother's money but promises to pay him back after he makes good in America, and he writes telling that he is doing well and he has not forgotten to repay but is not ready to do so yet. His brother is waiting in France and has a family who are not well off but keep waiting for this good willed brother, that they have all their faith on. Finally one of his daughters finds a husband who is in hope of Uncle Jules' wealth. The family goes on a boat ride with the newlyweds, when the father and the mother see Uncle Jules selling oysters looking like a bum and knowing for certain now that they money will never come to them. They want to make sure the son in law and daughters are ignorant of this fact. They are disgusted except the narrator, the young son would have liked to talk to his uncle.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15175
“One of the captains told us that he had rented a large shop and was doing an important business. “Two years later a second letter came, saying: ‘My dear Philippe, I am writing to tell you not to worry about my health, which is excellent. Business is good. I leave to-morrow for a long trip to South America. I may be away for several years without sending you any news. If I shouldn’t write, don’t worry. When my fortune is made I shall return to Havre. I hope that it will not be too
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15179
long and that we shall all live happily together . . . .’ “This letter became the gospel of the family. It was read on the slightest provocation, and it was shown to everybody. “For ten years nothing was heard from Uncle Jules; but as time went on my father’s hope grew, and my mother, also, often said: “‘When that good Jules is here, our
position will be different. There is one who knew how to get along!’ “And every Sunday, while watching the big steamers approaching
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15183
from the horizon, pouring out a stream of smoke, my father would repeat his eternal question: “‘What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?’ “We almost expected to see him waving his handkerchief and crying: “‘Hey! Philippe!’ “Thousands of schemes had been planned on the strength of this expected return; we were even to buy a little house with my uncle’s money — a little place in the country near Ingouville. In fact, I wouldn’t swear
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15188
that my father had not already begun negotiations. “The elder of my sisters was then twenty-eight, the other twenty-six. They were not yet married, and that was a great grief to every one. “At last a suitor presented himself for the younger one. He was a clerk, not rich, but honorable. I have always been morally certain that Uncle Jules’ letter, which was shown him one evening, had swept away the young man’s hesitation and definitely decided him.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15192
“He was accepted eagerly, and it was decided that after the wedding the whole family should take a trip to Jersey. “Jersey is the ideal trip for poor people. It is not far; one crosses a strip of sea in a steamer and lands on foreign soil, as this little island belongs to England. Thus, a Frenchman, with a two hours’ sail, can observe a neighboring people at home and study their customs. “This trip to Jersey completely absorbed our ideas, was our sole anticipation, the constant thought of our minds. “At last we left. I see it as plainly as if it had happened yesterday. The boat was getting up steam against the quay at Granville; my father, bewildered, was superintending the loading of our three pieces of baggage; my mother, nervous, had taken the arm of my unmarried sister, who seemed lost since the departure of the other one, like the last chicken of a brood; behind us came the bride and groom, who always stayed behind, a thing that often made me turn round. “The whistle sounded. We got on board, and the vessel, leaving the breakwater, forged ahead through a sea as flat as a marble table. We watched the coast disappear in the distance, happy and proud, like all who do not travel much. “My father was swelling out his chest in the breeze, beneath his frock coat, which had that morning been very carefully cleaned; and he spread around him that odor of benzine which always made me
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15203
recognize Sunday. Suddenly he noticed two elegantly dressed ladies to whom two gentlemen were offering oysters. An old, ragged sailor was opening them with his knife and passing them to the gentlemen, who would then offer them to the ladies. They ate them in a dainty manner, holding the shell on a fine handkerchief and advancing their mouths a little in order not to spot their dresses. Then they would drink the liquid with a rapid little motion and throw the shell overboard.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15206
“My father was probably pleased with this delicate manner of eating oysters on a moving ship. He considered it good form, refined, and, going up to my mother and sisters, he asked: “‘Would you like me to offer you some oysters?’ “My mother hesitated on account of the expense, but my two sisters immediately accepted. My mother said in a provoked manner: “‘I am afraid that they will hurt my stomach. Offer the children some, but not too much, it would
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15210
make them sick.’ Then, turning toward me, she added: “‘As for Joseph, he doesn’t need any. Boys shouldn’t be spoiled.’ “However, I remained beside my mother, finding this discrimination unjust. I watched my father as he pompously conducted my two sisters and his son-in-law toward the ragged old sailor. “The two ladies had just left, and my father showed my sisters how to eat them without spilling the liquor. He even tried to give them an example, and seized an oyster. He attempted
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15214
attempted to imitate the ladies, and immediately spilled all the liquid over his coat. I heard my mother mutter: “‘He would do far better to keep quiet.’ “But, suddenly, my father appeared to be worried; he retreated a few steps, stared at his family gathered around the old shell opener, and quickly came toward us. He seemed very pale, with a peculiar look. In a low voice he said to my mother:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15218
“‘It’s extraordinary how that man opening the oysters looks like Jules.’ “Astonished, my mother asked: “‘What Jules?’ “My father continued: “‘Why, my brother. If I did not know that he was well off in America, I should think it was he.’ “Bewildered, my mother stammered: “‘You are crazy! As long as you know that it is not he, why do you say such foolish things?’ “But my father insisted:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15223
“‘Go on over and see, Clarisse! I would rather have you see with your own eyes.’ “She arose and walked to her daughters. I, too, was watching the man. He was old, dirty, wrinkled, and did not lift his eyes from his work. “My mother returned. I noticed that she was trembling. She exclaimed quickly: “‘I believe that it is he. Why don’t you ask the captain? But be very careful that we don’t have this rogue on our hands again!’
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15228
“My father walked away, but I followed him. I felt strangely moved. “The captain, a tall, thin man, with blond whiskers, was walking along the bridge with an important air as if he were commanding the Indian mail steamer. “My father addressed him ceremoniously, and questioned him about his profession, adding many compliments: “‘What might be the importance of Jersey? What did it produce? What was the population? The customs? The nature of the soil?’ etc., etc. “‘You have there an old shell opener who seems quite interesting. Do you know anything about him?’ “The captain, whom this conversation began to weary, answered dryly: “‘He is some old French tramp whom I found last year in America, and I brought him back. It seems that he has some relatives in Havre, but that he doesn’t wish to return to them because he owes them money.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15235
His name is Jules — Jules Darmanche or Darvanche or something like that. It seems that he was once rich over there, but you can see what’s left of him now.’ “My father turned ashy pale and muttered, his throat contracted, his eyes haggard. “‘Ah! ah! very well, very well. I’m not in the least surprised. Thank you very much, captain.’ “He went away, and the astonished sailor watched him disappear. He returned to my mother so upset that she said to him:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15240
“‘Sit down; some one will notice that something is the matter.’ “He sank down on a bench and stammered: “‘It’s he! It’s he!’ “Then he asked: “‘What are we going to do?’ “She answered quickly: “‘We must get the children out of the way. Since Joseph knows everything, he can go and get them. We must take good care that our son-in- law doesn’t find out.’ “My father seemed absolutely bewildered. He murmured:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15245
“‘What a catastrophe!’ “Suddenly growing furious, my mother exclaimed: “‘I always thought that that thief never would do anything, and that he would drop down on us again! As if one could expect anything from a Davranche!’ “My father passed his hand over his forehead, as he always did when his wife reproached him. She added: “‘Give Joseph some money so that he can pay for the oysters. All that it needed to cap the climax would be to be recognized by that beggar.
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15250
That would be very pleasant! Let’s get down to the other end of the boat, and take care that that man doesn’t come near us!’ “They gave me five francs and walked away. “Astonished, my sisters were awaiting their father. I said that mamma had felt a sudden attack of sea-sickness, and I asked the shell opener: “‘How much do we owe you, monsieur?’ “I felt like laughing: he was my uncle! He answered:
Highlight (Yellow) | Location 15254
“‘Two francs fifty.’ “I held out my five francs and he returned the change. I looked at his hand; it was a poor, wrinkled, sailor’s hand, and I looked at his face, an unhappy old face. I said to myself: “‘That is my uncle, the brother of my father, my uncle!’ “I gave him a ten-cent tip. He thanked me: “‘God bless you, my young sir!’ “He spoke like a poor man receiving alms. I couldn’t help thinking that he must have begged over
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there! My sisters looked at me, surprised at my generosity. When I returned the two francs to my father, my mother asked me in surprise: “‘Was there three francs’ worth? That is impossible.’ “I answered in a firm voice “‘I gave ten cents as a tip.’ “My mother started, and, staring at me, she exclaimed: “‘You must be crazy! Give ten cents to that man, to that vagabond— ‘
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“She stopped at a look from my father, who was pointing at his son-in-law. Then everybody was silent. “Before us, on the distant horizon, a purple shadow seemed to rise out of the sea. It was Jersey. “As we approached the breakwater a violent desire seized me once more to see my Uncle Jules, to be near him, to say to him something consoling, something tender. But as no one was eating any more oysters, he had disappeared, having probably gone below to the dirty
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hold which was the home of the poor wretch.
January 19, 2021
Guy de Maupassant est l'un des écrivains français les plus connus. Il est né le 5 août 1850 au château de Miromesnil à Tourville-sur-Arques (en Normandie) et mort 1893 le 6 juillet à Paris. Il était un maître des nouvelles et un représentant du style naturaliste. Il a écrit 300 nouvelles, six romans, trois livres de voyage et un recueil de poésie. Ses travaux littéraires reflètent souvent la difficulté de vivre la vie quotidienne dans la société française et comment différentes actions conduisent à des dénouements différents. J'analyserai sa nouvelle « Mon oncle Jules ».
« Mon oncle Jules » est une nouvelle écrite par Guy de Maupassant et publiée le 7 août 1883. L'histoire commence par une courte introduction. Le narrateur est le camarade d'un homme nommé Joseph. Quand le vieux pauvre leur demande de l’aumône, Joseph donne 100 sous. Le narrateur est surpris par l'action très généreuse de Joseph. Ce vieil homme éveille un souvenir de l'enfance de Joseph et il veut le partager avec son camarade. À partir de là, nous entendrons l'histoire du point de vue de Joseph - Joseph devient le narrateur.
Joseph a grandi dans une famille très pauvre. Il avait une mère, un père et deux sœurs. Non seulement il vit la pauvreté, mais il a également vu comment cela affectait leur famille. La mère souffrait de la gêne dans laquelle ils vivaient, elle trouverait toujours des mots aigres pour son mari. Deux sœurs avaient le bon âge pour se marier, mais elles ne pouvaient pas le faire parce que la famille n'avait pas assez d'argent. Et bien sûr, le petit Joseph était lui aussi noyé dans la pauvreté - sa famille mangeait toujours la même nourriture, économisait toujours autant que possible. Ce qui pour d'autres familles plus riches n'était rien, pour la famille Joseph, c'était un gros problème comme, par exemple, perdre un bouton de vêtements. Mais même cette famille avait quelque chose de saint et c'était dimanche. Chaque dimanche, toute la famille se préparait et allait se promener sur une jetée. Chaque membre de la famille mettrait les meilleurs vêtements, mais même ce rituel du dimanche ne serait pas sans détails comiques. Lorsqu'ils étaient sur le point de sortir, père aurait trouvé une tâche sur ses vêtements qui devaient être nettoyés avec de la benzine. La promenade sur la jetée serait toujours pomastique, car le dimanche serait le seul jour où ils pourraient au moins prétendre être dans une meilleure situation qu'ils ne le sont en réalité. Tandis qu'ils se tenaient sur une jetèe, le père disait avec ironie "Si Jules était là-dedans, quelle surprise!". L'oncle Jules était presque une créature mythique dans la tête de Joseph. Joseph entendrait de nombreux détails sur son oncle dès son plus jeune âge. Il savait que l'oncle mangeait de l'argent, gaspillé un héritage et devenait méchant aux yeux d'une famille. Plus tard, il a déménagé en Amérique et a écrit une lettre au père de Joseph pour lui dire qu'il avait trouvé un emploi et à l'avenir, il serait en mesure de le rembourser. Dans la lettre suivante, oncle a écrit qu'il va très bien, qu'il a des affaires et qu'il est en bonne santé. Il a de nouveau promis de partager de l'argent avec son frère afin qu'ils puissent tous vivre heureux. Pendant dix ans, la famille de Joseph n'a eu aucune nouvelle de l'oncle Jules, mais ces promesses suffisaient à garder la foi en un bel avenir. Toute la famille a rêvé du jour où oncle Jules leur reviendrait riche et où la vie époustouflante commencera. Ces promesses étaient comme un évangile pour eux et oncle Jules était leur sauveur qui revenait pour les sauver de la pauvreté. Mais les choses ne se sont pas passées comme l'espérait la famille de Joseph pendant tant d'années. Au début, les choses semblaient s'améliorer en famille. Une des filles a finalement trouvé son mari. L'homme a aimé l'idée que sa femme a un oncle riche en Amérique. La famille de Joseph avec ce nouveau membre a planifié un voyage modeste au Jersey qui a changé la vie pour toujours. A bord, la famille regarde les autres manger des huîtres. A bord, la famille regarde les autres manger des huîtres. La famille de Joseph voulait également faire l'expérience de ce repas, économisant de l'argent, comme d'habitude, en achetant des huîtres uniquement pour deux filles. Puis, quelque chose de très inattendu s'est produit. En quelques instants, tous les espoirs de la famille Joseph se sont brisés. Père a remarqué que l'homme qui vend des huîtres ressemblait beaucoup à son frère Jules. Après quelques questions au capitaine, la famille a découvert que c'était vrai - que le pauvre et triste homme était l'oncle Jules. C'était embarrassant, déchirant pour la famille. Ils ont essayé de cacher cette terrible nouvelle au nouveau membre d'une famille-fiancée de fille. La seule personne qui connaissait la véritable identité de ce vieil homme était le petit Joseph, alors il a été envoyé pour payer les huîtres. Le petit garçon a payé les huîtres et a laissé de l'argent supplémentaire pour ce vieux pauvre ouvrier, qu'il savait être son oncle Jules. La mère et le père ont été horrifiés par cette action. Comment leur fils pourrait-il donner de l'argent supplémentaire pour ce menteur dégoûtant? Mais le petit garçon l'a fait et à partir de là, il a vu son pauvre oncle Jules dans chaque pauvre homme qu'il rencontrait.
Pas étonnant que cette nouvelle de Guy de Maupassant soit très puissante et couvre différents thèmes. Tout d'abord, cela montre à quel point la petite lueur d'espoir inspire une famille très pauvre. Logiquement, il serait très naïf d'attendre quoi que ce soit de l'oncle Jules, surtout quand il n'a montré aucun signe de lui-même en dix ans. Mais pour une famille pauvre - cet espoir les a fait vivre, c'était une illusion très douce à croire. Un autre thème, à mon avis, très fort dans cette histoire est la pureté d'un enfant. Bien que la mère et le père aient été dégoûtés par oncle Jules et l'appelaient "voleur", Joseph se sentait toujours mal pour son oncle et lui a donné de l'argent supplémentaire. Cela montre que les enfants sont plus empathiques et voient bien les gens malgré leurs erreurs. Quand ses parents traitaient Jules de voleur, Joseph voulait toujours l'appeler son oncle Jules, comme il le faisait toujours toutes ces années: «J'avais envie de dire: mon oncle». ; "C’est mon oncle, le frère de papa, mon oncle!". Malgré sa situation de vie oncle, il était toujours curieux de voir cette personne mythique qui était un héros des histoires qu'il a entendues toute sa vie. Les parents de Joseph avaient honte de ce pauvre parent, mais le petit garçon ressentait de l'empathie envers lui. Pour résumer, cette histoire montre comment personne ne peut échapper à la conscience de ses actions. Les espoirs naïfs de la famille de Joseph ont péri avec les mensonges de l'oncle Jules. Oncle Jules ne pouvait pas non plus cacher son secret pour toujours. Le destin sonde toujours une personne, peu importe à quel point elle essaie de s'enfuir. Même si les histoires de Guy de Maupassant sont souvent dirigées par une ombre pessimiste (et cette histoire ne fait pas exception), nous pouvons néanmoins en tirer quelque chose de positif. L'empathie, la compréhension que le petit Joseph n'avait pas perdu au fil des années et son cœur est encore capable de donner de l'argent aux vieux pauvres parce que qui sait peut-être que ce vieil homme a une famille qui attend le sauveur?
« Mon oncle Jules » est une nouvelle écrite par Guy de Maupassant et publiée le 7 août 1883. L'histoire commence par une courte introduction. Le narrateur est le camarade d'un homme nommé Joseph. Quand le vieux pauvre leur demande de l’aumône, Joseph donne 100 sous. Le narrateur est surpris par l'action très généreuse de Joseph. Ce vieil homme éveille un souvenir de l'enfance de Joseph et il veut le partager avec son camarade. À partir de là, nous entendrons l'histoire du point de vue de Joseph - Joseph devient le narrateur.
Joseph a grandi dans une famille très pauvre. Il avait une mère, un père et deux sœurs. Non seulement il vit la pauvreté, mais il a également vu comment cela affectait leur famille. La mère souffrait de la gêne dans laquelle ils vivaient, elle trouverait toujours des mots aigres pour son mari. Deux sœurs avaient le bon âge pour se marier, mais elles ne pouvaient pas le faire parce que la famille n'avait pas assez d'argent. Et bien sûr, le petit Joseph était lui aussi noyé dans la pauvreté - sa famille mangeait toujours la même nourriture, économisait toujours autant que possible. Ce qui pour d'autres familles plus riches n'était rien, pour la famille Joseph, c'était un gros problème comme, par exemple, perdre un bouton de vêtements. Mais même cette famille avait quelque chose de saint et c'était dimanche. Chaque dimanche, toute la famille se préparait et allait se promener sur une jetée. Chaque membre de la famille mettrait les meilleurs vêtements, mais même ce rituel du dimanche ne serait pas sans détails comiques. Lorsqu'ils étaient sur le point de sortir, père aurait trouvé une tâche sur ses vêtements qui devaient être nettoyés avec de la benzine. La promenade sur la jetée serait toujours pomastique, car le dimanche serait le seul jour où ils pourraient au moins prétendre être dans une meilleure situation qu'ils ne le sont en réalité. Tandis qu'ils se tenaient sur une jetèe, le père disait avec ironie "Si Jules était là-dedans, quelle surprise!". L'oncle Jules était presque une créature mythique dans la tête de Joseph. Joseph entendrait de nombreux détails sur son oncle dès son plus jeune âge. Il savait que l'oncle mangeait de l'argent, gaspillé un héritage et devenait méchant aux yeux d'une famille. Plus tard, il a déménagé en Amérique et a écrit une lettre au père de Joseph pour lui dire qu'il avait trouvé un emploi et à l'avenir, il serait en mesure de le rembourser. Dans la lettre suivante, oncle a écrit qu'il va très bien, qu'il a des affaires et qu'il est en bonne santé. Il a de nouveau promis de partager de l'argent avec son frère afin qu'ils puissent tous vivre heureux. Pendant dix ans, la famille de Joseph n'a eu aucune nouvelle de l'oncle Jules, mais ces promesses suffisaient à garder la foi en un bel avenir. Toute la famille a rêvé du jour où oncle Jules leur reviendrait riche et où la vie époustouflante commencera. Ces promesses étaient comme un évangile pour eux et oncle Jules était leur sauveur qui revenait pour les sauver de la pauvreté. Mais les choses ne se sont pas passées comme l'espérait la famille de Joseph pendant tant d'années. Au début, les choses semblaient s'améliorer en famille. Une des filles a finalement trouvé son mari. L'homme a aimé l'idée que sa femme a un oncle riche en Amérique. La famille de Joseph avec ce nouveau membre a planifié un voyage modeste au Jersey qui a changé la vie pour toujours. A bord, la famille regarde les autres manger des huîtres. A bord, la famille regarde les autres manger des huîtres. La famille de Joseph voulait également faire l'expérience de ce repas, économisant de l'argent, comme d'habitude, en achetant des huîtres uniquement pour deux filles. Puis, quelque chose de très inattendu s'est produit. En quelques instants, tous les espoirs de la famille Joseph se sont brisés. Père a remarqué que l'homme qui vend des huîtres ressemblait beaucoup à son frère Jules. Après quelques questions au capitaine, la famille a découvert que c'était vrai - que le pauvre et triste homme était l'oncle Jules. C'était embarrassant, déchirant pour la famille. Ils ont essayé de cacher cette terrible nouvelle au nouveau membre d'une famille-fiancée de fille. La seule personne qui connaissait la véritable identité de ce vieil homme était le petit Joseph, alors il a été envoyé pour payer les huîtres. Le petit garçon a payé les huîtres et a laissé de l'argent supplémentaire pour ce vieux pauvre ouvrier, qu'il savait être son oncle Jules. La mère et le père ont été horrifiés par cette action. Comment leur fils pourrait-il donner de l'argent supplémentaire pour ce menteur dégoûtant? Mais le petit garçon l'a fait et à partir de là, il a vu son pauvre oncle Jules dans chaque pauvre homme qu'il rencontrait.
Pas étonnant que cette nouvelle de Guy de Maupassant soit très puissante et couvre différents thèmes. Tout d'abord, cela montre à quel point la petite lueur d'espoir inspire une famille très pauvre. Logiquement, il serait très naïf d'attendre quoi que ce soit de l'oncle Jules, surtout quand il n'a montré aucun signe de lui-même en dix ans. Mais pour une famille pauvre - cet espoir les a fait vivre, c'était une illusion très douce à croire. Un autre thème, à mon avis, très fort dans cette histoire est la pureté d'un enfant. Bien que la mère et le père aient été dégoûtés par oncle Jules et l'appelaient "voleur", Joseph se sentait toujours mal pour son oncle et lui a donné de l'argent supplémentaire. Cela montre que les enfants sont plus empathiques et voient bien les gens malgré leurs erreurs. Quand ses parents traitaient Jules de voleur, Joseph voulait toujours l'appeler son oncle Jules, comme il le faisait toujours toutes ces années: «J'avais envie de dire: mon oncle». ; "C’est mon oncle, le frère de papa, mon oncle!". Malgré sa situation de vie oncle, il était toujours curieux de voir cette personne mythique qui était un héros des histoires qu'il a entendues toute sa vie. Les parents de Joseph avaient honte de ce pauvre parent, mais le petit garçon ressentait de l'empathie envers lui. Pour résumer, cette histoire montre comment personne ne peut échapper à la conscience de ses actions. Les espoirs naïfs de la famille de Joseph ont péri avec les mensonges de l'oncle Jules. Oncle Jules ne pouvait pas non plus cacher son secret pour toujours. Le destin sonde toujours une personne, peu importe à quel point elle essaie de s'enfuir. Même si les histoires de Guy de Maupassant sont souvent dirigées par une ombre pessimiste (et cette histoire ne fait pas exception), nous pouvons néanmoins en tirer quelque chose de positif. L'empathie, la compréhension que le petit Joseph n'avait pas perdu au fil des années et son cœur est encore capable de donner de l'argent aux vieux pauvres parce que qui sait peut-être que ce vieil homme a une famille qui attend le sauveur?
January 12, 2025
3.5⭐
Jules is the black sheep of a very penny-pinching family who had gone to America and on whom the whole family was counting to help them out financially by at least paying back his sizeable debts to them, as he had often promised he would do. And one day he does come back.
Jules is the black sheep of a very penny-pinching family who had gone to America and on whom the whole family was counting to help them out financially by at least paying back his sizeable debts to them, as he had often promised he would do. And one day he does come back.
January 22, 2020
I found some short stories by Guy de Maupassant (a great writer by the way), and are fascinated by the twist resolutions!
In this particular short story, (spoiler alert) a poor family's dad has a brother that was "kicked out" from their town, which was in France, to America for foolishly spending a large portion of their deceased grandfather's inheritance. Jules wrote back a few years later saying he's rich and will be back in a few more years. The family barely got by, and one day, a mediocre tailor agreed to marry the family's younger daughter on Jules's note. When they were on a boat to a cheap "honeymoon", they spotted a tattered sailor. They figured out through the captain that the sailor was Uncle Jules (apparently he failed a little after writing the letter)!!! Little did they know, every Sunday when they took walks and the dad would say: "What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?" that he was on that ship THE WHOLE TIME!!!
In this particular short story, (spoiler alert) a poor family's dad has a brother that was "kicked out" from their town, which was in France, to America for foolishly spending a large portion of their deceased grandfather's inheritance. Jules wrote back a few years later saying he's rich and will be back in a few more years. The family barely got by, and one day, a mediocre tailor agreed to marry the family's younger daughter on Jules's note. When they were on a boat to a cheap "honeymoon", they spotted a tattered sailor. They figured out through the captain that the sailor was Uncle Jules (apparently he failed a little after writing the letter)!!! Little did they know, every Sunday when they took walks and the dad would say: "What a surprise it would be if Jules were on that one! Eh?" that he was on that ship THE WHOLE TIME!!!
June 14, 2018
Le Havre. Older brother Jules somewhat of a prodigal emigrated to S America to seek his fortune. He leaves his younger brother a letter saying promising to return and take care of his family when his fortune is made. The family just ekes by financially so Jules’s letter becomes their big hope. Every Sunday when steamers from distant lands put into port, the father made that it would really be something if Jules was on that ship. No spoiler alert needed. 4 stars.
October 16, 2019
Sonunda yola çıkıldı. Bunu dün gibi anımsıyorum: Vapur, Granville rıhtımında istim üstünde; babam telaşlı, üç eşya balyamızın yüklenmesini takip ediyor; meraklı annem, ötekinin gidişinden beri kuluçkasından arta kalmış tek piliç gibi ziyan olmuşa benzeyen bekar ablamın kolunda; arkamızda da, hep geride kalıp bana çok kez başımı çevirten yeni evli çift
October 29, 2021
sorun maupassantta değil sorun dönemde. fazla romantik bir dönem çünkü baya eski bi dönem. o zamanlar böyle betimlemeli betimlemeli süslü süslü cümleler kuruyorlarmış. ama öyküler güzel. yine de çok konsantre olmam gerekti benim bütünlüğü kaçırmamak adına. büyük ihtimalle kuş böcek güzellemeleri filan çok okumadığım için olabilir.
December 24, 2017
A nice short story about poverty, hope, and the emotions at times of desperation.
February 2, 2018
4 out of 5 stars! ⭐️ A beautiful short story with a great message behind it! I live how Maupassant’s stories are always clearly structured and end on a moral philosophy. 😊👌🏻📚
December 14, 2018
Gi de Mopassanın peyzajist rəssam Jan Aşil Benuvilə həsr etdiyi yoxsulluq,ümid və çarəsizlik haqqında qısa bir hekayə.
April 5, 2020
Is everyone's uncle a screw up?!
Good story.... Sorry uncle Jules.
Good story.... Sorry uncle Jules.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 28, 2020Jusef à chaque fois où il voit un vagabond il lui donne cent sous car il lui rappelle de l'histoire de son oncle Jules qui ouvre les huîtres.
March 23, 2021
A terrible tragedy that so many had to be eaten alive... Without a hint of mignonette sauce.
June 27, 2022
اشفق على العم جول!
July 7, 2022
A collection of witty and optimistic short stories. Sadly, they were not as entertaining as I would hope for them to be.
December 19, 2023
histoire stupide avec des personnages stupides avec une intrigue stupide. Inutile.
January 16, 2024
Hes so Victorian-child core. Anyways this was nice he writes very simply. My first French book :3
March 13, 2024
Desperately sad. A valuable story.
August 7, 2025
Snooze fest.
October 16, 2017
I have arranged my thoughts into a haiku:
"Dreaded on both sides,
Jules had one gift to offer,
Which died on meeting."
"Dreaded on both sides,
Jules had one gift to offer,
Which died on meeting."
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews