Beauty and the Beast

The novel presents a unique and adult-oriented take on the classic fairy tale, delving into the marriage system of the 18th century and the lack of agency for women in choosing their partners. It offers a detailed backstory explaining the Prince's curse and explores Beauty's lineage, elements that are absent in later adaptations. This first published version by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, translated by James Robinson Planché, enriches the familiar tale with deeper themes and character development.