An Episode under the Terror

"An Episode under the Terror" by Honoré de Balzac is a historical story set during the French Revolution's most scary time; it explores how people face fear to survive, and the difficult choices they have to make when everything changes. An old woman, scared and hunted, tries to make her way through a city full of dangers, finding temporary safety in a pastry shop before finally hiding in a small room with a priest and some nuns. A strange man connects to the group, making them wonder if he's there to help them or if he's a threat. The book looks at big questions about what's right and wrong, and how strong beliefs and sacrifices affect people during this time of huge changes, ending with a sad memory of the past.