Boule de Suif and Other Stories

Set during the Franco-Prussian War, the narrative centers on a group of travelers, including a prostitute nicknamed Boule de Suif, who find themselves trapped in a hotel by Prussian soldiers. As the story unfolds, themes of sacrifice, social class, and moral hypocrisy are explored, highlighting the complexities of human behavior under duress. Maupassant's poignant storytelling and character development make this work a powerful commentary on war and society, cementing its place as one of his most notable contributions to literature.