Cousin Bette

Cousin Bette, published in 1846, is a novel by Honoré de Balzac that explores themes of jealousy, revenge, and the destructive power of repressed feelings.

The story revolves around Bette, a poor and plain spinster who plots the downfall of her wealthy relatives, the Hulot family, after feeling betrayed and overlooked by them.

Through her manipulations, Bette orchestrates a series of tragic events that lead to the family's ruin.