Read "Bel Ami" in the original French with Vocabulary Keys in English. Guy de Maupassant's novel is written in a rather simple style that makes it easy for beginners to read. If you have a solid, basic knowledge of French grammar and a moderately-developed range of vocabulary, you should find pleasure in reading this novel in the original French with the help of the Vocabulary Keys: lists of vocabulary words and their translations in English at the bottom of each page. Nearly 2,300 words are underlined and defined, and all are listed in the Glossary at the end of the book. Initially, many words and underlined and defined for you on each page, but as the book progresses and your French improves, the number per page is reduced. Nineteenth century Parisian society is preoccupied with sex, gossip and scandals. Newspaper editors are unscrupulous, politicians are corrupt, "arrivistes" are ruthless, and husbands and wives cheat on their spouses. The protagonist, George Duroy, nick-named "Bel Ami" is not an especially talented journalist. He is a poor country boy in the big city who finds himself surrounded by wealthy people whom he envies. He lusts to be like them. But how? He is penniless, somewhat awkward, and has no connections in high society. Would it be possible for him to become rich, famous and powerful, too? He perceives that some wealthy Parisians have climbed to the top through treachery, deceit and corruption. Might he have to resort to lying, seducing, manipulating or worse? Is he even capable of those things? His only asset seems to be his incredible good looks. Could he possibly use his dashing appearance to take advantage of high-society women and somehow use them to climb the social ladder? If so, what could possibly go wrong?