# The Story of the Duchess of Cicogne and of Monsieur de Boulingrin

_1920_

By Anatole France.

"The Story of the Duchess of Cicogne and of Monsieur de Boulingrin" by Anatole France is a fantasy tale that was likely written in the early 20th century. As part of a collection titled "The Seven Wives of Bluebeard & Other Marvellous Tales," the narrative weaves a whimsical and satirical account surrounding themes of love, belief, and the influence of fairies in the lives of its characters. The story blends elements of classical fairy tales with a modern twist, making it both nostalgic and relevant. The plot centers around the Princess Aurore, who falls into a deep sleep due to a curse laid upon her by an uninvited fairy, Alcuine. Meanwhile, Monsieur de Boulingrin, the Secretary of State for the Treasury, is in a complicated relationship with the elegant Duchess of Cicogne. The narrative unfolds as Boulingrin remains skeptical of fairy tales despite his unexplainable encounters with them. After a century of enchantment, both he and the Duchess awaken to a transformed world, only to find themselves forgotten and irrelevant in a society that has moved on without them. The tale satirizes societal norms, relationships, and the intersection of fantasy and reality, ultimately serving as a reflection on the passage of time and the absurdities of life. (Summary by Project Gutenberg, written by machine.)

- Language: English
- Editor: J. Lewis May
- Editor: Bernard Miall
- Translator: D. B. Stewart
- Subjects: Fairy tales; French fiction -- Translations into English

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From Project Gutenberg. Public domain in the United States.